Labour’s Wes Streeting expressed concern about the impact of lockdown on the mental health of children and young people, stating that the nation has a duty to support them. He highlighted the need for improved mental health services and pledged to recruit more mental health professionals if Labour wins the election on July 4.
Streeting emphasized the detrimental effects of lockdown on young people’s mental well-being, particularly noting that teenage boys are struggling to return to normalcy. He stressed the importance of addressing the damage caused and providing support to the lockdown generation.
Labour’s manifesto identifies mental health as a significant issue, describing it as a ‘second pandemic’ that is affecting the lives of children and young people. The party promises to increase access to mental health professionals in schools and reduce waiting times for mental health support.
Streeting visited a men’s mental health charity to discuss Labour’s plans for tackling mental health challenges. The party recognizes that mental health issues also impact the workforce and the economy, and aims to implement measures to support people in returning to work.
While Streeting has highlighted the mental health implications of lockdown, political discourse during the election campaign has largely overlooked the economic fallout. The National Audit Office reported significant financial support during the pandemic, with the Bank of England also implementing monetary measures.
Economist Paul Ormerod emphasized the long-term consequences of lockdowns on the government’s ability to act, suggesting that the economic impact will shape politics for years to come.
This article was written with contributions from Owen Evans and PA Media.
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