The University of East Anglia (UEA) is under fire for planning the closure of three NHS-ordered mental health training courses—programs that train CBT therapists, psychological wellbeing practitioners, and clinical associates in psychology. The jobs are critical to NHS mental health services, and the planned cuts have raised alarm among unions, healthcare leaders, and local people.
🚨Concerns Over Impact
Opponents argue that the action is short-term and may exacerbate the shortage of mental health professionals, particularly in the East of England region, where there is a growing demand for such specialists. The University and College Union (UCU) described the closure as a “dereliction of civic responsibility,” and issued a warning that more than 300 new practitioners are required in the area by 2026.
💼UEA’s Reasoning
UEA attributes declining NHS funding and low take-up as primary reasons for the shutdown. But most consider this a temporary low, and cancelling these programs now will merely exacerbate future staffing shortages. With no immediate local substitutes, patients and NHS services in the area could become further stressed.
🧠Why It Matters
These courses are not merely academic ones—they’re lifelines to frontline NHS mental health training. Ending them jeopardises existing student careers and future patient care.
📌Final Thought
At a time when mental health demand is increasing, reducing training appears not only perilous but possibly detrimental. As pressure intensifies, many are calling on UEA to rethink and invest in the future of mental health care.