The UK government has reassessed the previously outdated Mental Health Act to promote treating patients more humanely and address disparities
The new reforms will transform how people in mental health crises are treated, hoping for a more modern understanding of mental health.
What do these changes mean for those with mental health issues, and why are they important?
The new reforms will allow each patient to have a personalised plan to guide their recovery and make discharge easier.
Emma Paveley, interim assistant director of the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health Network, said,
“This bill is a long-awaited step forward in reforming the out-dated Mental Health Act and making it fit for the 21st century”
Patients will also have the right to choose a person to represent them regarding treatment decisions; this will be instead of deferring to the nearest relative as they might not always be the preferred support person.
Family and caregivers will also have more say in treatment planning. This will allow those who know the patients best to give important information, especially when the patients are too unwell to communicate their needs.
The current law has been allowing people in mental health crises to be held in police cells; the new reforms will end this, making sure people in mental health crises are directed to the correct healthcare facilities.
This change will also help free up police resources, allowing them to focus more on public safety.
Addressing disparities within the old act
The current act has contributed to disparities in the past; for example, black people are over three times more likely to be detained under its provisions.
The will also be specific protections for people with autism and learning disabilities. The law will limit the time they can be detained unless they also have a diagnosed mental health condition that requires treatment. This change intends to prevent the unnecessary institutionalisation of people who could be better supported in community settings.
The new Act aims to reduce these disparities and ensure a fairer system for everyone.
Emma added, “We welcome the government’s commitment to shift more care into the community. This not only supports better patient outcomes but is a more efficient use of NHS funding. But we need to make sure the right provision is in place.”
Mental health support through the NHS
The new act requires clinicians to consult another expert before discharging a patient. The NHS is also expanding its mental health services, such as teams stationed in schools and crisis centres. There will also be an around-the-clock crisis line (NHS 111).
For patients who do need hospitalisation, there’s an emphasis on providing care close to home in supportive, therapeutic environments.
Why the new act is important?
Changing from the old Mental Health Act shows a modern approach to mental health and an updated view.
For many, being “sectioned” under the current Act has been a traumatic experience, sometimes worsening the crisis it was meant to address. The new Act hopes to create a healing, supportive environment by making treatment more patient-centred and inclusive of family and advocates.
