Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps her Department is taking to improve access to psychological support for families and bystanders affected by sudden cardiac arrest.

We recognise that experiencing or witnessing a sudden cardiac arrest can be extremely distressing, with potentially lasting effects on survivors, their families and bystanders.

People experiencing anxiety, depression or trauma-related difficulties can access NHS Talking Therapies, including through self-referral. The Government is expanding NHS Talking Therapies so that 915,000 people complete a course of treatment by March 2029, with a continued focus on improving quality, outcomes and access so that people get the right support they need.

We are also providing £343 million investment to support 100 new community mental health centres and 59 dedicated mental health emergency departments giving people in crisis specialist care in a place designed for them.

People who require more immediate mental health support can contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option to speak to a trained professional, or contact their general practitioner, who can assess their needs and arrange further support where appropriate.