MPs launch investigation into value of complementary therapies
A cross-party group of MPs has launched an investigation into the value of complementary therapies in supporting physical health, mental health and wellbeing and taking pressure off the NHS.
Co-chaired by Carolyn Harris MP and Judith Cummins MP, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Beauty and Wellbeing (APPG BAW), will explore how complementary therapies can support health, evaluate the skills gaps facing the industry, consider how to ensure the viability of businesses and jobs, and review potential government interventions to support the sector’s future.
The Group has launched a call for written evidence to better understand:
- The value the sector brings to the UK’s economy and society
- How complementary treatments can play a preventative role in supporting people’s health and wellbeing, or support those with existing health conditions
- How the NHS can be better integrated with the sector
- The skills gap facing the industry and how we can attract talent
- How has the pandemic changed demand for these services
- How to ensure the long-term growth of the sector and ensure those that work in it are able to make a good wage
During the summer, the MPs invited sector experts to give oral evidence at the first session of the investigation, with further sessions to be held over the autumn.
Having collected evidence, the APPG will present a call to action on Government with recommendations for how to support the sector’s future.
The deadline for call for evidence submissions is midnight on November 11.
Carolyn Harris MP and Judith Cummins MP, Co-Chairs of the APPG BAW, said, “Great steps have been made to secure the beauty industry greater recognition in Parliament and Government, however, the value of complementary therapies in supporting everyone’s health is not being adequately recognised.
“Treatments such as massage can play a vital role in helping those with long-term health conditions manage their symptoms. Equally, highly trained complementary therapists can play a preventative role in helping identifying health conditions in their clients.
“With our NHS under increasing pressure, it is more important than ever that the benefits of complementary therapies are recognised.
“We look forward to receiving representations from across the industry as we seek to make recommendations to the Government on to support the sector’s future and ensure its role in supporting the UK’s health is maximised.”
The terms of reference, call for evidence questions and information on how to submit a response are available on the Group’s website.
Find out more about how massage can be beneficial for mental health.