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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Health
Rebecca Thomas

Mental health A&E units won’t cut trolley waits and will put patients at risk, doctors warn

Around 1.3 million people had attended emergency departments in a mental health crisis between 2019 and 2025, responses from 75 NHS trusts suggested - (PA)

Mental health A&E units will not address long waits for vulnerable patients or cut emergency care waiting times, doctors have warned.

The units, planned for England, will be staffed with specialist doctors and nurses to provide 24/7 support for patients feeling suicidal or experiencing symptoms such as psychosis or mania in a bid to relieve pressure on hospitals amid the ongoing “corridor care” crisis.

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