2025 Agenda

Investing in women’s mental health: the path to a stronger NHS

12 Jun 2025
Charter 8
Maternity, neonatal and women’s health , Mental health

Recognising that women’s health needs cannot simply be extrapolated from those of men is essential if we are to address the structural disadvantages faced by women, particularly those vulnerable to mental ill health, and the impact this has on their access to appropriate care. There are too many women living with avoidable complex care needs who aren’t gaining access to services.

In this session we aim to reignite a national conversation around women’s health, acknowledging the major role that trauma, gender-based inequity and sexual and reproductive factors play in driving women’s ill health.

We'll discuss how prevention, early detection and focusing on key life-course moments can reduce NHS costs and improve efficiencies, resulting in earlier access to treatment and, most importantly, improved outcomes for women.

Lade Smith CBE
Dr Lade Smith CBE, President - Royal College of Psychiatrists
Philippa Greenfield
Dr Philippa Greenfield, Joint Presidential Lead for Women & Mental Health (and Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist) - Royal College of Psychiatrists
Sara Metz
Sara Metz, Expert by Experience, Faculty of Perinatal Psychiatry - Royal College of Psychiatrists
Ranee Thakar
Ranee Thakar - Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists