More than 50,000 people with long-term mental illness are being left to rot by the NHS because they do not qualify for emergency psychiatric care, the charity Rethink has warned.

Government Response: Department of Health

Health minister Rosie Winterton said: "The government has invested an extra £300 million last year to improve services for everyone with mental health problems.

"Reform of mental health services is a government priority. More than 130 crisis resolution teams, over 220 assertive outreach teams, and more carer support networks are now in place to help and support people with long-term mental health needs and their carers."

Party Response: Conservative

Shadow health secretary Andrew Lansley said: "Rethink has called for all mental health patients to be offered effective involvement in planning of their mental health care.

"The Conservative party agrees entirely, and is currently looking at how our patient's passport can be extended to deliver this."

Forum Response: Depression Alliance