Andrew Harrop, Head of Public Policy for Age Concern and Help the Aged, said:

'The lack of mental health services for the over 65s is one of the clearest examples of age discrimination in the NHS, leaving many people undiagnosed and untreated simply because of their age.

'This report clearly states the current approach to mental healthcare provision for older people is totally unacceptable and outlines the steps the NHS needs to take to provide age-appropriate mental health services. These should be based on need not age and tailored to meet the needs of our ageing population.

'The Equality Bill is an important tool to end ageism across a range of services, including healthcare, but it must be implemented without delay so older people desperately needing mental health support aren't forced to wait any longer to receive it.'

Notes

- The full report, 'Age Discrimination in mental health services: making equality a reality', and accompanying evidence document, 'The need to tackle age discrimination in mental health', are available at fairdeal4mentalhealth

- Age Concern England and Help the Aged have joined together to form a single charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people.

- 'Down, but not out' is Age Concern and Help the Aged's campaign to improve the quality of life for older people with depression. More information and resources are available at ageconcern/downbutnotout

Source
Help The Aged