Equality in Later Life, a Healthcare Commission national study on older people`s mental health services, was published on 31 March 2009. It was the final report from the Healthcare Commission before its work was taken over by the new Care Quality Commission.

The study combined an analysis of national data with visits to a representative sample of mental health trusts. It covered four themes: age discrimination in mental health services; quality of inpatient care; how comprehensive services are; and how organisations work together to provide services.

Although the study was rather limited in scope, it does present a disturbing picture of age discrimination in mental health services. Services for older people are also underfunded and are of poorer quality than those for younger adults. It is clear that, although there has been progress in integrating services across health and social care, much more needs to be done and that effective joint working achieves the best quality and range of services. There are recommendations in the report for the new regulator, the Department of Health, and health and social care providers and commissioners.

The Local Government Information Unit have created a briefing document commenting on the study and refering to the forthcoming Equality Bill as a potential focus for tackling age discrimination in mental health services.