Investment is the only way to boost mental health services | Letter

It's not simply a staff shortage or training delays, but a lack of political will and funds, says Dr Hadyn Williams, chief executive of the BACP

There was excess demand for psychological support before Covid hit, and your article (Millions in England face second pandemic' of mental health issues, 21 February) highlights the impact the pandemic is having on the nation's mental health. We need investment now to expand the mental health workforce in the NHS, schools, charities and voluntary services to support the millions who are experiencing mental health problems.

It's not simply a shortage of workers or delays in training them that's preventing people accessing services, but a lack of political will and funds to bring existing skilled and experienced professionals into the workforce in greater numbers.