Ireland is set to expand access to mental health services after Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler announced an €11 million investment on World Mental Health Day 2026. The package focuses on early intervention, youth mental health, community counselling and specialist supports delivered through the Health Service Executive (HSE) and partner organisations.
Mental health funding expands access across Ireland
The announcement forms part of Budget 2027, which increases Ireland’s overall mental health allocation by €108 million to a record €1.657 billion. According to the Department of Health, funding has risen by more than 60% since 2020.
A central element is €3.8 million for four new Jigsaw services in Dún Laoghaire and counties Kildare, Cavan, Monaghan, Sligo and Leitrim. Once operational next year, the services are expected to extend support to approximately 135,000 additional young people aged 12 to 25 across six counties.
The expansion will increase national coverage of Jigsaw-style early intervention services from 75% to 90%, giving more young people access to free support for mild to moderate mental health difficulties closer to home.
More free counselling and talk therapy sessions
An additional €2.8 million will strengthen the Free Men’s Counselling Programme and Community Therapy Fund. Recurring annual funding for these initiatives will rise to €5.8 million, supporting almost 60,000 free counselling sessions each year.
- €500,000 for 8,000 additional men’s counselling sessions annually.
- €500,000 for 6,000 sessions through Community Therapy Ireland organisations.
- €800,000 for 10,240 sessions via Family Resource Centres.
- €1 million for 9,000 sessions through HSE Counselling in Primary Care.
More than 8,200 men have already used the Free Men’s Counselling Programme, with over 24,000 sessions delivered since its launch. The initiative is intended to improve early access for people who may be reluctant to seek help.
Read more: Ireland government announcements, public services and community news from Daily Digest.
Investment in CAMHS and recovery-focused supports
More than €3.5 million will be directed towards specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). The funding will support additional clinical staff, a dedicated ADHD pathway and enhanced Mental Health Intellectual Disability services for children and young people with complex needs.
The Department of Health says the additional resources will help improve assessment and care, particularly for children who have been waiting longest for support.
A further €500,000 will expand Social Farming programmes for young people attending CAMHS and people living in community mental health residences. These projects aim to build confidence, social connections and participation in meaningful community activities.
Another €1 million will fund 18 additional staff across Mental Health Engagement and Recovery services. Roles will include peer support workers, family support workers, recovery coordinators and Individual Placement and Support coordinators, helping people pursue employment, education and independent living.
Explore more: Irish health policy, social affairs and public sector updates from Media Digest, plus Ireland lifestyle and wellbeing features from Luxe Digest.
Where to find mental health support
People seeking help can contact their GP, HSE mental health services or an emergency department in an emergency. Information about local supports is available through yourmentalhealth.ie.
- Text HELLO to 50808 or visit textaboutit.ie.
- Call Samaritans on 116 123.
- Call Pieta on 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.
- Young people can visit spunout.ie/navigator.
- Call the HSE information line on 1800 111 888.
In an emergency, contact emergency services or attend the nearest emergency department.
What the announcement means
The new mental health funding combines early intervention for young people, accessible counselling, specialist clinical services and recovery supports. Its success will depend on timely implementation and ensuring that people understand how to access services in their communities.
Key takeaway: Ireland’s €11 million mental health investment is designed to bring more free, community-based and early-intervention support to young people, men and people with complex needs, while Budget 2027 provides the largest-ever overall allocation for mental health services.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
