For local councillors
Congratulations on your election.
We’d welcome the chance to brief you on the NHS Talking Therapies model, the dropout rates we’re seeing across services, and what this means for your local residents.
Instructive
Two things we’re asking of you
Understanding a system like this can feel complex — but it doesn’t need to. We’re passionate about sharing what we know, so that together we can help bring an end to such high dropout rates and ensure services remain accessible, cost-effective, suitable and adequate to local community needs.
Ask 01
A short briefing
An online or face-to-face session explaining the Talking Therapies model, its role in the new NHS 10 Year Plan for community mental health, and why dropout rates deserve more scrutiny.
Ask 02
Your pledge
Use what you learn to raise awareness and visibility within your Local Authority and any spaces you have influence in — in support of mental health services that are accessible, timely, and culturally appropriate for all.
Read the full councillor letter → Open letters by ICB area → Live NHS Talking Therapies dashboard →
Reflective
We know this can feel like a lot to take on
Some of the areas we’ve developed particular expertise on: high dropout and attrition rates within NHS Talking Therapies (over one million dropped out last year); the growing use of AI and automation within therapeutic settings; the erosion of compassion, relational care and human connection within mental health services.
The impact current models are having on accessibility, engagement and outcomes for residents; and the high average cost of each NHS therapy session (£166 on average, up to £300 in some regions). We’re particularly concerned that many residents remain on extremely long waiting lists while large numbers of therapy sessions go unused.
Urgent
This is being decided in the current policy cycle
Talking Therapies is set to play a key role in the new NHS 10 Year Plan for community mental health. The window to shape scrutiny of dropout rates is now — not after the plan is settled.
