Press

Press Release

15th November 2006

Better provision must be driving force behind mental health reform

National charity United Response is calling on the Government to think again about its plans for amending the 1983 Mental Health Act, following the announcement of forthcoming legislation in the Queen's Speech today.

Chief Executive of United Response, Su Sayer OBE, said:

"As a provider of services for people with mental health needs we recognise the need to reform mental health legislation. But we are concerned that the Government's proposed amendments to the 1983 Mental Health Act will force treatment on people without adequate safeguards.

"Compulsion should only ever be used as a last resort. All too often people experiencing mental distress are denied help when they or their carers request it. Legislation should introduce the right for patients to receive a full assessment of all their health and social care needs before crisis point is reached.

"Legislation should also provide a right to independent advocacy for everyone sectioned under the Act, from the point at which they are detained.

"Mental health provision must be given greater priority by the Government and by service commissioners so that services are properly resourced, person-centred and offer a genuine choice to people experiencing mental distress."

Ends

For more information please contact Sarah Bartlett or Jaime Gill in the United Response Press Office on020 8246 5237/ 020 8246 5122 or emailsarah.bartlett@unitedresponse.org.uk or jaime.gill@unitedresponse.org.uk

Notes to editors:

  1. United Response is a national charity working with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs in England and Wales. Through its mental health work, United Response supports people to maintain a presence in their local community by offering a range of services from early intervention in depression through to outreach and community support (supporting people in their own homes) and residential support for people with enduring mental health needs. United Response services are built around the needs of the individual and are delivered in partnership with other local providers.
  2. United Response is a member of the Mental Health Alliance, a unique coalition of 78 organisations from across the mental health spectrum and beyond, working together to secure better mental health legislation for England and Wales. To find out more about the work of the Mental Health Alliance go to www.mentalhealthalliance.org.uk

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