International Benchmarking
Working with global partners to share best practice
The International Mental Health Benchmarking Project: A brief history
Since 2016, 15 countries have taken part in one or more of the international benchmarking project cycles as part of the bi-annual leadership exchange. The project has been delivered in partnership with the Global Leadership Exchange. There have been three previous cycles of this project: 2016, 2019 and 2022.
Participating countries in the NHS Benchmarking Network International Mental Health Project (2016-2022):
| Australia | England | Northern Ireland | Sweden |
| Belgium | Japan | Norway | Switzerland |
| Canada | Netherlands | Republic of Ireland | United States of America |
| Czechia | New Zealand | Scotland | Wales |
In 2024, the NHS Benchmarking Network and GLE agreed to pause the international mental health project. This was an opportunity to reassess interest, review the focus and impact of the project, and create a sustainable model of delivery.
A session on data and benchmarking was held at the 2022 Leadership Exchange in Utrecht, Netherlands which resulted in two broad outcomes:
confirmed interest in continuing an international mental health benchmarking project, and
establishing a Data and Benchmarking Forum.
The International Mental Health Benchmarking Project: 2026
Momentum is building around the re-establishment of the Data and Benchmarking Forum and its international project, with over 12 countries and organisations engaged to date. The project, costed at £10,000 per country with a minimum of five countries required for viability, has already secured commitments from Sweden, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. Data from the four UK nations will also be included, enhancing the project's breadth and impact. Discussions are ongoing with previous participants and new prospects, with all countries expressing strong interest.
Adding further value, the project is aligning with key global policy initiatives through collaboration with the OECD and WHO, and is working closely with NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care. It is also forging new international connections within each participating country, opening the door to expanded partnerships and future opportunities across the global mental health landscape.
International Data and Benchmarking Forum
Global mental health leaders collaborate quarterly, with workshops and speakers.
Inaugural session Tuesday 10 June 20:00-21:30 (BST), Chairs: NHSBN, NHS England and the Global Leadership Exchange
Title: Children and young people’s inpatient and intensive community mental health services: Sharing international models of care to inform service transformation to meet changing care needs