“Those suffering with mental ill health aren’t able to get the help they need through the NHS because services are so over-stretched. It’s out of order.”

BOXING LEGEND Frank Bruno has urged the next Prime Minister to deal with a “ticking time-bomb” in mental health problems.

The retired fighter, 60, fears that more people than ever are struggling to cope following the pandemic. 

He says his charity, the Frank Bruno Foundation, is supporting rising numbers of men, women and kids suffering with conditions like depression and anxiety. 

Frank’s comments come as he launches a new audio-version of his life story 60 Years A Fighter, which is now available to now download.

It tells the brutal story of Frank’s own fight with Bipolar Disorder which has seen him sectioned and hospitalised on several occasions. 

Frank said: “The main reason I wanted to share my story is to show people there’s no shame in speaking out about mental health.

“And make no mistake people are really struggling out there right now. I’m worried those in charge don’t give a monkeys and aren’t doing enough about it. 

“I’ve not heard much said by Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss on it. If they came and spent half an hour with the people working at my Foundation they’d see for themselves how much of a struggle it is. Those suffering with mental ill health aren’t able to get the help they need through the NHS because services are so over-stretched. It’s out of order.”

Since retiring from boxing, Frank has been sectioned several times but has used his experiences to fight for change.

In his new book Sixty Years A Fighter he talks about his ongoing fight. Fellow boxing icons Tyson Fury and Ricky Hatton – who have gone through their own mental health battles – also share their experiences in the memoir. 

“I’ve been there and got the t-shirt,” Frank said. “That’s why I wanted to start a Foundation that helps people in a different kind of way. We use exercise and non contact boxing in our centres to show people there is a different option than just taking a tablet. Although medication works for some, many doctors are dishing out pills too freely. And, for many, this causes more aggro than it solves. 

“The Government needs to spend some proper money on ensuring those suffering can get a different kind of service. If you break your arm or leg you can go to hospital and get it fixed. But if your mind is busted then you have to go home and sort it out on your own. That’s not right.”

Frank has  already opened one centre in Northampton and will soon be opening a new premises in Oxford. He also has plans to open sites in east London and Essex in the future.