The interim report of the Independent Mental Health Act Review, has been published today. The review of the Act was commissioned by the Government in October 2017 with recommendations extending to England in relation to matters that are devolved in Wales (including health), and England and Wales in relation to non-devolved matters (including justice).

Welcoming the Interim Report, Kathy Roberts, Chief Executive of Association of Mental Health Providers, said:

“The report highlights the serious issues with the Act and its failure to protect people with mental health needs at a time when they need support the most but is a welcome opportunity for improvements to be made in relation to rising detention rates, racial disparities in detention, and to ensure that the Act is aligned with the modern mental health system. At a time when mental health is so prominent in the political and social spheres, it is important to make the MHA and mental health services work better for everyone such as BAME groups, against whom the Act is known to be used disproportionately.  The Act has been used when people are most ill, vulnerable, in need of help, and have to be detained against their will, and so, it is important that the review ensures that this is done in an environment that is helpful, therapeutic, and not at all disproportionate.

“We have been pleased to see the involvement in the Review of the voluntary and community sector and those with lived experiences, and hope that the recommendations from the final report later this year, when implemented by the Government, ensures service users continue to be given a voice and that their rights are protected at every stage of their care. As the report notes, the majority of the work remains to be done so we look forward to working closely with the Review to ensure that the reform that is needed is delivered.”

ENDS

For more information, please contact Dania Hanif, Policy and Communications Lead, on dania@amhp.org.uk or call 020 7766 7498.

Notes

[1) Independent Review of the Mental Health Act: Interim Report, Department of Health and Social Care, May 2018