Government Mental Health Strategy Launch Response
Published 15th May 2026
Commenting on the launch of the Government’s Mental Health Strategy (15 May 2026) Paul Schreier, CEO at Simplyhealth, said: “The UK has passed eight million working days lost to mental-ill health in 2026 – a concerning milestone. Mental ill-health is the leading cause of long-term absence (41%) and the second most frequent cause of short-term absence (29%).
The upcoming Mental Health Strategy, confirmed today, will be key to improving outcomes across the nation, driving down workplace absence, and boosting productivity.
Nearly a third (30%) of employees report experiencing depression or anxiety in the last year, with a further one in four (25%) reporting stress or burnout. Employers are crucial partners in meeting this challenge, and in supporting the shift from crisis intervention to preventative care."
“As a Vanguard organisation, contributing to the Keep Britain Working review, we are committed to empowering employers to get this right. By improving access to workplace health provision, amongst other important interventions such as improved line manager training, employees will get the support they need, when they need it."
“In response to the escalating challenge of poor mental health and to enable a concerted effort, we have partnered with three leading UK mental health organisations: The Mental Health Foundation, Mental Health First Aid England, and Mental Health Innovations - the charity behind the Shout crisis text service. Over the next three years, we will be working together to expand access to proactive mental health support across workplaces and communities."
“We welcome the government’s continued prioritisation of the mental health crisis in the UK. There is no other option than to transform the wellbeing of the nation, leading to a healthier, happier more productive workforce.”
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