MORE people were using NHS mental health services across mid Essex in July than at the same point last summer, latest figures show.

Mental health charity Mind is calling for the Government to prioritise mental health, after figures showed a significant rise in the number of people receiving help across England in the last year.

NHS Digital figures show around 6,610 people were in contact with mental health services in the NHS Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group area at the end of July.

This was an increase of 20 from 6,590 at the end of June, and more than the 5,970 at the same point last year.

Across England, 1.44 million people were in contact with mental health services at the end of July.

Though down slightly from 1.46 million a month previously, this was a rise of nine per cent compared to the same month a year before.

It was also the highest figure for the month of July since comparable records began in 2016.

Now is the time for decision-makers to put their money where their mouths are and prioritise the mental health of the nation

Leila Reyburn, policy and campaigns manager at Mind, said: "These figures demonstrate just how many of us are struggling with our mental health as we emerge from the pandemic.

"The Government must make sure significant investment is given to mental health services from the £5.5 billion it has committed to the NHS.

"Even before the pandemic, mental health services were playing catch-up after decades of underfunding.

"Now is the time for decision-makers to put their money where their mouths are and prioritise the mental health of the nation."

Just over two thirds of those in contact with mental health services in Mid Essex at the end of July were adults – 4,480.

There were also 1,525 children using mental health services for young people, and 690 people in contact with learning disabilities and autism services in the area.

The Department of Health and Social Care said its £500 million Mental Health Recovery Action Plan will ensure those in need receive the right support.

A spokesman added: “Covid-19 has affected everyone in the UK and community and crisis services have continued to provide support throughout the pandemic, with digital and face to face appointments."