UKCP responds to the  Autumn Budget  2026

On Wednesday, 28 October, Chancellor John Healey (MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough) delivered his first Autumn Budget to the House of Commons, setting out how the government plans to support people, businesses and communities amid economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

We're encouraged by the chancellor's recognition of the significant financial strain many people are facing. Financial insecurity and poor mental health often reinforce each other. We welcome the chancellor's commitment to support those in need.

Measures announced to ease financial pressure include: 

• short- and long-term plans to reduce energy bills, including direct payments for many households to help with bills
• ensuring people have access to safe and affordable housing, through schemes targeting rough sleepers, first time buyers and council and social housing
• an end to the cliff edge for people receiving Carer's Allowance. 

Despite acknowledging that many people feel the country does not work for them, very little was announced on the NHS and mental health.

We're particularly concerned by: 

• a lack of funding committed for recommendations made by the Milburn and Timms reviews. Both reviews have recognised people with mental health conditions face real challenges and require support, and we hope that the government's response accommodates any recommendations that allow people to thrive in or out of work
• references to the NHS focusing on productivity and AI. We'll continue to raise concerns about confidentiality and the risk of relying too heavily on digital tools to clear mental health waiting lists
• the framing of this as a budget for working people. Some people with mental health conditions are unable to work and in need of support. 

We'll continue to advocate for a compassionate welfare system that offers both employment and mental health support. We'll work with the government to make full use of the psychotherapy workforce, so that everyone seeking support in the NHS receives timely, person-centred care that gives them the best chance of recovery.