I was an inpatient on a mental health ward – here’s what needs to change (HSJ, 17 June 2025)

Summary

Inpatient mental health services in the UK are under intense scrutiny and increasing pressure. Staff shortages, patient safety concerns, and outdated environments are just some of the issues drawing media and political attention.

There’s widespread agreement that improvements are needed, but the question is: where do we begin?

This HSJ article highlights five shifts that are needed to help inpatient mental health services better support the people they serve.