Access to mental health support has been an increasingly prominent issue in recent years. However, an inquiry by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Muscular Dystrophy has found that people with muscle-wasting conditions are falling through the gap in receiving that support.
We heard many powerful and emotional stories from such people and their families. Through insufficient support, they are being left to deal with their diagnoses alone or having to pay privately for therapy, which many cannot afford.
Together with Muscular Dystrophy UK, we are urging immediate action to ensure support from diagnosis onwards and at significant milestones, as well as better integration and co-ordination within specialist teams. We also recommend finding innovative ways to provide appropriate psychological support through digital technology such as Skype, and local community initiatives.
Every day counts when you’re living with a rare and often life-limiting muscle-wasting condition. We must ensure everyone who needs psychological support can access it.
Mary Glindon MP (North Tyneside)
Chair, APPG Muscular Dystrophy
House of Commons
London SW1A 0AA