Mental health social care: scoping and developing new and necessary health and care research system

Mental health social care is an emerging and evolving field of practice and research within mental health care in the UK. It recognises the significant role played by social determinants in the development of mental illness and distress, and in recovery and well-being. By considering mental health social care as a distinct health and care research system, this paper outlines key priorities for research, funding and capacity building. It argues that mental health social care should be an essential component of mental health service delivery, and calls for a move towards holistic, person-centred care that addresses the social determinants of mental health, alongside biological and psychological factors.