National public mental health action − reflections on England’s past programme and future need

Purpose Increases in prevalence of mental health conditions and widening inequalities suggest that public mental health (PMH) should be a growing public health priority within the UK and globally. Whilst it remains an under-developed field within national public health systems, there is much to learn from practice over recent decades. This study aims to identify learning from a national PMH programme within England’s public health institution (Public Health England) between 2013 and 2021 and consider implications for future direction. Design/methodology/approach Six stakeholders engaged in the programme provide a reflection of their experiences of leading, delivering and advising the programme throughout its duration. The Health Policy Analysis triangle is applied to analyse the programme context, content, process of delivery and actors engaged. Findings Decades of PMH development in England informed a comprehensive public health programme to promote mental health, prevent mental health problems and improve the lives of people with mental health conditions. Strengths include national-regional infrastructure, a broad network of actors and tools to guide practice. However, action on the social determinants of mental health, and coproduction, remain a challenge. Practical implications Given the absence of a national PMH policy or programme in England, renewed action is required to address the current population mental health crises. The seven recommendations are relevant to future public health policy decisions in England and elsewhere and include cross-government policy, multi-disciplinary coalitions, insight and data monitoring, research, infrastructure, community and public involvement and delivery strategy. Originality/value This is an original and unique account of Public Health England’s PMH programme.