When asked, NHSE told us that it would welcome a definition of ‘parity of esteem’, which could encompass parity in funding, waiting times and outcomes, as well as the provision of data and information on services. The Department contended that it was not always helpful to have a clear definition and said that its current position is not to provide a specific definition.47 39 Qq 147–148; C&AG’s Report, para 18 40 House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts report, Introducing integrated care...

When asked, NHSE told us that it would welcome a definition of ‘parity of esteem’, which could encompass parity in funding, waiting times and outcomes, as well as the provision of data and information on services. The Department contended that it was not always helpful to have a clear definition and said that its current position is not to provide a specific definition.47 39 Qq 147–148; C&AG’s Report, para 18 40 House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts report, Introducing integrated care systems, Thirty-Fifth report of session 2012–23 41 Q 92 42 House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts report, Mental health services for children and Type: conclusion | Number: 24 | Response status: accepted Government response: 4.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation Target implementation date: January 2024 4.2 DHSC is working with NHS England to produce a definition of parity of esteem, incorporating feedback from key stakeholders and lived experience advisors. DHSC wi