Rapid advances in artificial intelligence are transforming healthcare, offering new ways to reduce pressures on services, support clinicians, and expand patient access.
To ensure these technologies are deployed responsibly, the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network has announced a new project to explore how AI can be safely and effectively adopted across mental health services.
The initiative will examine the range of AI-enabled tools currently available, balancing their potential benefits with the need for robust governance, clear evidence of effectiveness, and a strong focus on patient safety.
As outlined in the 10 Year Health Plan, the NHS aims to harness digital technologies and AI to improve access, outcomes, and efficiency, building a health service fit for the future. AI offers opportunities to reduce administrative burdens, streamline workflows, and enhance clinical decision-making, but its implementation must be strategic and risk-aware.
The project will:
- Identify barriers and opportunities for AI adoption in mental health care.
- Provide practical guidance supported by case studies and real-world examples.
- Support NHS systems looking to expand AI use and create an environment where innovation can thrive.
Rebecca Gray, Director of the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network, commented:
“The 10 Year Health Plan sets out a vision for a health service that embraces digital and AI to improve access and the effectiveness of care. The rise of AI-enabled tools presents both opportunities and challenges. Issues of safety, effectiveness, accessibility and a lack of guidance mean that there is a real need for support in this area.
“We are delighted to be working with Limbic, whose wealth of experience and expertise will help to ensure that science and evidence underpin the adoption of AI in mental health services. We need to give members the confidence to make informed decisions focused on the biggest areas of need, sharing practical examples of what works, and ensuring that AI strengthens services rather than adding unnecessary complexity.”
Through engagement with providers already using AI tools, intelligence gathering via the Mental Health Network, and a roundtable in early 2026, the project will build a clearer picture of both challenges and opportunities. Findings will be showcased at the Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Conference and Exhibition in April 2026, where Limbic will be the first confirmed event partner.
Bookings for the conference are now open, offering stakeholders the chance to join discussions on AI’s role in mental health care and its safe, effective integration into NHS services.
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