Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to increase mental health services for those suffering with eczema.

Where appropriate, patients can be referred to specialists in psychodermatology. the treatment of skin diseases using psychological techniques, through a network of specialised clinicians. The specialised dermatology Clinical Reference Group is currently reviewing the standards of care for psychodermatology, working closely with Psychodermatology UK. As part of the Mental Health Recovery Action Plan, the Government is accelerating key commitments in the NHS Long Term Plan, investing £110 million to expand Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services. IAPT - Long Term Conditions services have been established across the country to support integrated pathways between IAPT services and physical health pathways for people with long term conditions, including eczema.

Whilst we had no specific events related to National Eczema Week, we recognise and commend the work of the voluntary and community sector organisations, who continue to raise awareness of eczema and the issues facing those living with the condition.