The NHS Confederation has partnered with Limbic, the AI mental health technology company behind the first-ever scale-up winner of Digital Health Rewired Pitchfest, to explore how artificial intelligence can strengthen mental health services and improve access to care across the NHS. The collaboration will map both the opportunities and the barriers NHS systems face when adopting AI tools, with a focus on long-term, safe, and meaningful integration into mental health pathways.
The NHS Confed Mental Health Network will work with Limbic to assess issues such as safety, effectiveness, accessibility, and the lack of clear guidance surrounding AI. The goal is to give NHS leaders practical, evidence-based recommendations on when and how to deploy AI, ensuring it enhances—rather than complicates—existing services. Director Rebecca Gray said the partnership aligns with the NHS's 10-year plan to embrace digital and AI innovation to improve care quality and access, while acknowledging the need for strong standards and support.
The project will generate case studies, examples of AI use in mental health, and hands-on guidance for systems looking to expand adoption. Limbic leaders emphasized the importance of a “problem-first” approach, strong scientific evidence, and collaboration to ensure clinical AI improves outcomes for patients and clinicians. CEO Ross Harper and UK general manager Kathleen Henrick noted that AI can help address extreme pressure on mental health services, but only if deployed responsibly and guided by clinical need and patient safety. The partnership aims to build confidence among NHS organizations and create an environment where regulated AI tools can thrive.
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