£25,000 agreed to help MPs' mental health

A Chartered Psychologist has welcomed the news that the House of Commons authorities have approved an annual budget of £25,000 to help MPs with mental health problems access treatment.

Dr Ashley Weinberg from Salford University, the editor of The Psychology of Politicians (Cambridge University Press, 2012), says:

"This initiative sends a truly progressive signal, not only to MPs and those who rely on their judgements, but to all who run organisations and those experiencing mental health problems linked to their work. Parliament has shown it is able to discuss mental health openly and by recognising the pressures which can come with challenging job situations, this move emphasises how we should be supporting all people encountering mental health problems in the working population, especially in such challenging times."

Under the plans, doctors will be contracted to work at the House of Commons.

John Thurso MP, a member of the Commons members estimate committee, told BBC News:

"All conscientious employers want to help those with mental health issues and often assistance in accessing help is the first vital step.

"Being an MP is a privilege but brings particular stresses as we heard in the debate in June. It is therefore appropriate for us to take this initiative to assist members to access the help they need."