Responding to reports that an NHS ombudsman has warned of ‘serious failings’ in mental health provision, former health minister Norman Lamb said:

“This disturbing report is further evidence that the mental health system is under impossible strain, with devastating consequences for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“Mental health budgets are being trimmed while there remains a chronic shortage of clinical staff – and too many people are suffering harm or tragic loss of life as a result.

“There is a moral imperative that lessons are learnt from this report. Everybody suffering from mental ill-health deserves access to the best possible care and treatment, and the Government must do what it takes to end the scandalous neglect of these people by ensuring that mental health services are properly funded.”