NHS launches partnership to explore AI in mental health services

A new NHS partnership is exploring how artificial intelligence could transform mental health services, improve access to care, and reduce pressure on clinicians

The NHS Confederation and AI specialist Limbic have launched a partnership to explore how artificial intelligence can transform NHS mental health services. This initiative will prioritise safe and effective use of AI tools to enhance patient access, reduce clinician workload, and provide practical, responsible guidance for frontline adoption.

Making the NHS AI-ready: Transforming mental health services with artificial intelligence

Harnessing digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence is one of the key messages of the 10 Year Health Plan, to create a more efficient, accessible NHS, fit for the future.
Working together, the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network and Limbic are assessing the adoption of AI across mental health, reviewing existing tools and identifying practical steps forward.
The rapid adoption of AI tools in healthcare is reducing clinician workload and broadening patient access. Responsible implementation, evidence of effectiveness, and patient safety remain central to this transformation.
The NHS Confederation and Limbic will engage with providers already using AI tools in preparation for a roundtable scheduled for early 2026, a key milestone in the project timeline.
The project will:

• Identify the barriers and opportunities facing NHS systems related to AI use and long-term adoption in mental health care.
• Offer guidance on AI adoption, supported by relevant case studies in mental health.
• Support systems looking to expand their use of AI tools and create an environment in which they can thrive.

Rebecca Gray, director of the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network, said:  “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.”
Ross Harper, CEO & Founder at Limbic, said: “We know that AI has enormous potential to scale mental healthcare, but realising that potential requires collaboration, evidence, and a problem-first approach. Our partnership with the NHS Confederation positions us at the heart of this critical conversation, helping shape how clinical AI can genuinely improve outcomes for patients and clinicians alike.”
Kathleen Henrick, UK General Manager at Limbic, said: “Mental health services are under enormous pressure, and AI offers tangible solutions, but only when implemented safely and effectively. We’re delighted to partner with the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network to ensure mental health leaders have the practical guidance and evidence they need to deploy clinical AI confidently and responsibly. By sharing our experience from deployments across the NHS and learning from mental health leaders, we can ensure AI adoption is guided by clinical need and patient safety. Together, we can move beyond the hype and focus on regulated clinical AI solutions that deliver measurable value across the care pathway.”