Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 18 March 2015, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 March 2015 (named day). It was answered by Norman Lamb (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 23 March 2015 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Mental Health Services

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, when he expects his Department's planned mental health app to be available across the NHS.

Answer: NHS England will later in March be launching a Mental Health Apps Library pilot to promote access to digital services that have a proven track record of improving outcomes for those suffering with depression and anxiety. The focus of the pilot will be on NHS commissioned digital services that are compliant with the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies quality standards, that offer National Institute of Health and Care Excellence approved evidence based treatments for depression and anxiety disorders. The aim of the pilot is to increase access to these services and create a better case for the commissioning of, and usage of, digital mental health services which lead to better outcomes.

Secondary information