- 16/07/2010
- Posted by: Joyce Watson MS
- Category: Feature
A new law on mental health services must include services for young people, an Assembly Member has claimed.
Joyce Watson AM believes that people reaching adulthood are in danger of being let down by confusing services. The Labour AM claims that a new law on mental health services should be amended to include young people and therefore avoid having to navigate between services.
The Labour Member for Mid and West Wales said:
“At present there can be confusion around which services are available when a person turns 18, that is when they are no longer classified as a young person but as an adult.
“If the legislation were to be broadened to include young people, such confusion would not exist and better services would be provided.”
Mrs Watson has also warned that thousands of prisoners in Wales with mental health needs are in danger of being abandoned.
“There is no room for ambiguity when it comes to providing services for people who suffer from mental health difficulties.
“I feel that the legislation as it stands would leave service providers without clear guidance on how to treat prisoners with depression or other illnesses.”
For further details about Joyce Watson’s work or to contact her please click on www.joycewatson.co.uk.