To ask the Minister of Health to outline how his Department is addressing the higher prevalence of mental health conditions in Northern Ireland compared to the rest of the UK, particularly among older people and those affected by the legacy of conflict.

The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 identifies the region’s higher prevalence of mental health conditions as being driven by a combination of factors including the legacy of the Troubles, social inequality, and adverse childhood experiences. The Strategy was developed to address these challenges through a whole-system, whole-life approach.

However, in light of the funding constraints faced, it has been necessary for my Department to undertake a review of the deliverability of the Mental Health Strategy’s actions from 2026 - 2029 to focus and prioritise our ambition, whilst recognising that the Strategy in its entirety is still needed.

The Review report, published on 9 October 2025, recognises that the mental health system must focus on fewer priorities and proposes a phased approach for the Strategy's deliverability dependant on the availability of additional resources. While the immediate focus for 2026/27 will be on workforce development and crisis services, the review acknowledges the importance of addressing older people's mental health and proposes it for action in 2027/28. This reflects a recognition of the growing need in this demographic.

Any additional resources we secure for mental health will be directed into priority areas identified through the review. In the absence of additional funding, we will focus on making the most of the resources we already have.

Mental health outcomes are shaped by broader social factors like poverty, housing, education, and employment. My Department is committed to enhancing cross-Government collaboration, working closely with the Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience, and Suicide Prevention to strengthen partnerships and deepen cooperation.

The Regional Trauma Network, overseen jointly by my Department and The Executive Office, was established to support the mental health and wellbeing of individuals affected by the Troubles. It adopts an innovative approach working collaboratively with statutory, community and voluntary sector organisations to provide specialist trauma care to individuals. Phase 1, focused on victims and survivors of the Troubles, formally began on 1 April 2023 and will run for at least three years. It will be evaluated from April 2026 to identify any unmet or ongoing needs, with lessons learned informing the design and rollout of Phase 2.