The Rt. Hon. Philip Hammond MP

HM Treasury

17^th April 2018

Dear Chancellor,

I am writing to advocate extending the Government’s proposed Breathing Space scheme to people experiencing a mental health crisis.

As I am sure you are aware, an estimated 23,000 people in England alone struggled with problem debt while in hospital for their mental health last year, with many thousands more in crisis at home. Under current proposals, they will not be protected by the Government’s welcome plans for Breathing Space, so will not get six weeks without fees, charges, interest or collections activity to get on top of debts before they spiral out of control. Having access to the scheme would benefit tens of thousands of people in mental health crisis who are too unwell to either manage their finances alone, or to seek debt advice.

Extending Breathing Space to everyone receiving NHS support for a mental health crisis, including anyone accessing psychiatric inpatient care or the care of a Crisis Resolution Team, has cross-party backing, as well the support of charities and professional bodies from across the debt and mental health sectors - such as Mind, StepChange and Citizens Advice.

The Government has consistently made the case for more support for people experiencing poor mental health and this is an opportunity to make a practical difference.

I look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely,