Time for action: a new system for training mental health practitioners.

Continuing the debate from previous issues of Mental Health Care, MICK McKEOWN and colleagues call for a radical rethink in mental health training. Institutionalised neglect continues on hospital wards and in the community. The answer is a systematic approach to mental health care. Training should focus on psychosocial interventions which are known to be effective. It should take place in the work setting, to ensure developments are integrated into the routine practice of all members of the mental health team.