Mental Health Foundation in response to the Welsh Government’s budget announcement

Jemma Wray, Head of Wales at Mental Health Foundation, said: “Following the publication of the Welsh Government’s budget plan, the Mental Health Foundation is concerned that the Welsh Government will not be able to fully protect the people of Wales from further financial stress from the continued Cost of Living crisis that risks adversely impacting their mental health. 

“Our recent Cost of Living polling* revealed that more than one in three adults in Wales felt anxious and stressed about their financial situation. Worryingly, close to two-fifths stated they had already accumulated unsecured debt to meet rising essential living costs, and we know that personal debt is linked to a higher risk of mental health problems. 

“Now more than ever, we need the Welsh government to protect the mental health of people in Wales from financial strain and poverty by prioritising investment in preventative services that support people’s mental health. We appreciate that the Welsh Government has sought to prioritise people experiencing poverty, but the reality is that cuts to community and voluntary services alongside a flat budget for discretionary assistance and lower fuel support will mean that many may find themselves without adequate support.  We are also concerned at the £21 million cut to the mental health budget which raises questions over how the Welsh Government will be able to deliver a new Mental Health Strategy. 

“For information and advice, including tips on how to protect your mental health through the continued Cost of Living crisis, visit our website: Cost-of-living and mental health | Mental Health Foundation.“

*Polling – The survey of 1000 Welsh adults was carried out by Opinium between 1st – 13th November 2023  

Figures are weighted to be nationally representative.