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Written question asked by Lord Godson (Conservative) on Monday, 23 February 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 March 2026. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 March 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.


NHS: Sick Leave

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what interventions they are undertaking to address mental health-related sickness absence among NHS staff.

Answer

Looking after the mental health of National Health Service staff is a priority for the Government.

Employers across the NHS have their own arrangements in place in line with their duty of care for supporting their staff. Nationally, NHS England has a wide-ranging package of mental health and wellbeing support for all staff including, access to counselling services, a self-check wellbeing tool and free access to a range of wellbeing apps. Staff can also access the National Staff Mental Health Treatment Service, provided by Practitioner Health, for more complex mental health support, including trauma and addiction.

The 10-Year Health Plan committed to roll out Staff Treatment Hubs. These hubs will provide a high-quality occupational health service for all NHS staff and include support for mental health issues.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL14683
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Staff NHS Mental health Sick leave
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk