Funding for mental health wellbeing services in Hampshire is set to be significantly reduced, despite concerns from charities about the impact on waiting lists.
Hampshire County Council (HCC) has approved funding cuts for wellbeing centres that support people recovering from mental health issues. Solent Mind, a mental health charity, emphasized the importance of these centres, stating they provide essential help “during times of need.”
The council cited a “very difficult decision” in light of its predicted £132 million financial shortfall for 2025/26. The 13 centres, located in easily accessible high street locations within the Hampshire local authority area, are non-clinical settings offering various mental health support services.
From the end of January 2025, the funding will be reduced from £1,281,777 to £625,000. Sally Arscott, chief executive of Solent Mind, highlighted that these centres offer safe spaces for emotional support, workshops, courses, and activities. She urged the county council to adopt a “proactive approach,” noting that these services help “reduce the burden faced by statutory services,” particularly those for children.
Arscott warned that the reduction in funding would hinder the centres’ ability to provide current levels of one-to-one support, leaving individuals with complex needs at risk of not receiving adequate help. “As a result of the proposal, the waiting list currently is over 100 people waiting up to eight or ten weeks, which will be much longer and more pressure,” she added.
Liz Fairhurst, the council’s executive member for adult social care and public health, acknowledged the value of the centres and assured that none would be closed. “Adult health and care will be providing these services without charge. Even if we can’t provide all the money people would like, we are providing in kind by doing this and giving buildings of peppercorn rent,” she said.
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