Funding shortfall leads to mental health redundancies at Jigsaw, says Ward 

Sinn Féin Dublin Mid-West TD Mark Ward says he is calling on the Government to reexamine its decision to reduce funding for Jigsaw.

Deputy Ward, who is Sinn Fein spokesperson on mental health, says he was contacted directly with reports that Jigsaw has received almost €1 million less this year from the HSE which has already led to redundancies at the youth mental health organisation.

“The reports of a shortfall in funding for Jigsaw is extremely worrying,” Deputy Ward said.

“Jigsaw plays a vital role in early intervention in youth mental health that can reduce the need of CAMHS.

“Jigsaw are the only primary care youth mental health service provider in Ireland, for young people aged 12-25.

“It has been reported to me that this year there will be a shortfall of almost €1 million in funding to Jigsaw from the HSE.

“This has already led to redundancies in the organisation and will likely lead to more.

“At present there are 33 active vacant posts in Jigsaw and my understanding is that because of the shortfall in funding, Jigsaw will be unable to recruit for these positions.

“There is a crisis in youth mental health right through from primary care to the specialist services of CAMHS.”

Deputy Ward also made the point that early intervention is key to addressing mental health needs in young people.

“We have seen the demand for CAMHS greatly increase since 2020, a reduction in staff for Jigsaw will only make this situation worse,” he said.

“What is worrying about this is that Jigsaw waiting list were finally coming down. At one stage these wating time were up to 30 weeks, the most recent figures we have received have the highest waiting times are 15 weeks but lowest times at just 1-2 weeks.

“Jigsaw operates across 15 different sites, often setting up in areas most in need of mental health supports for young people.

“I have contacted Minister Butlers office and asked her to reexamine this so that Jigsaw can continue to carry out the vital work that they do in our communities.”