MP highlights importance of having access to support during Mental Health Week
Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has highlighted the importance of support networks during Mental Health Awareness Week 2021.
The COVID pandemic has impacted mental health across every demographic. Statistics from the ongoing Mental Health in the Pandemic Study in March show a wide and deep impact on UK adults since the start of the pandemic.
In Banff and Buchan, support services like Men United and Shirley’s Space have been instrumental in supporting the mental health of local communities and have been credited with saving dozens of lives.
Scottish Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan David Duguid said:
“The effect of the pandemic on mental health in Scotland is worrying, with an estimated 1 in 4 people now experiencing mental health issues every year.
“Shirley’s Space and Men United in my constituency are two excellent examples of the type of local support that is available, and I know that their services have already saved lives. We should all highlight these organisations to those who might need their services.
“I am particularly concerned about the impact of the pandemic on young people. Over the last twelve months children have had to deal with momentous change and uncertainty as they have been separated from friends and family and had their school and exam routines disrupted.
“I have also received reports of cases where mental health support ended at 17 without adequate follow up into adulthood.
“As we recover from COVID, the provision of mental health services for children and adults across Scotland must improve.”
