Mental Health Legislation

Most people who have mental health problems are treated in the community or in hospital on a voluntary basis and have the same rights as everyone else. They are sometimes called ‘informal’ patients. A small number of people are compulsorily detained under a section of the Mental Health Act 1983, and they have different rights.

These pages give an outline guide to current mental health legislation. However it should not be taken as an authoritative statement of the law and if you need advice you should contact your Citizens Advice Burea, the Huntingdonshire Independent Advocacy Service or a solicitor specialising in mental health.

Citizens Advice Bureau

They offer free, independent advice and information on a wide range of issues including welfare benefits, debts, family divorce and separation, housing, general legal matters and consumer problems. The CAB can help you with form filling, letter writing and representation at tribunals. Advice is available from your local branch or visit their website www.nacab.org.uk

Further sources of information about the Mental Health Act

Department of Health
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Policyandguidance/Healthandsocialcaretopics/Mentalhealth/index.htm

Mind
http://www.mind.org.uk/Information/Legal/OGMHA.htm

BBC
http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/conditions/mental_health/index.shtml