Modernising mental health legislation: The new Mental Health Bill

Following the independent review’s recommendations, the government has published a draft Bill which would amend the Mental Health Act 1983. The government’s intention is to reduce the use of detention, increase patient choice and control and address racial disparities. In particular, the Bill would tighten the detention criteria, introduce a new nominated person role, increase safeguards for patients receiving compulsory treatment and introduce new care planning duties. The changes have been described as a once in a generation reform of the legal framework contained in the Mental Health Act.

Attend this session to:

• Understand the key aspects of the Bill
• Learn how the reforms will change the Mental Health Act
• Identify next steps

Tim Spencer-Lane, lawyer