Introduction to the community

Investing in the Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism sectors is an investment in people and communities

The care and support provider landscape in mental health social care plays a vital role in keeping people well, safe, and connected. It delivers care and support to around 8 million people in England and Wales, including those often excluded from other services – such as racialised communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, older people, young people, and those with complex needs such eeds such as acquired brain injuries or Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities

What’s the opportunity?

Reform being undertaken by the government offers a window to raise awareness and push for long overdue investment in the mental health sector, particularly not for profit and charitable organisations. As the NHS and social care systems plan their next steps, it’s time to make sure the our diverse and vibrant sector is recognised as a key part of the solution to the mental health crisis experienced in England.

📊 Key Mental Health Statistics in England (2025) Service Usage (NHS England)

• 2 million people were in contact with NHS-funded mental health services as of January 2025.

1.34 million were adults.
493,691 were children and young people.
293,331 were in learning disabilities and autism services.

• 459,546 new referrals were made in January 2025 alone.

• 2.35 million appointments were attended in that month

• This topic was modified 6 months, 1 week ago by Victoria Buyer.