Outdated law strips vulnerable patients of dignity in treatment
As the world marks World Mental Health Day* today (10 October), the Law Society of England and Wales urges the UK government to modernise the Mental Health Act and give patients better access to justice and more control over their care.
Law Society president Richard Atkinson said: “The current mental health legislation is undeniably outdated.
"Under the current system, there is a risk that compulsory detention and treatment is used too often and that patients do not have enough involvement or support in decisions about their care.
“We urge the government to prioritise reform of mental health legislation.
“New legislation should provide patients with more choice in their care and treatment and allow them to be more involved in decisions about themselves, including challenging detention. This would give mental health patients access to justice, as well as the dignity and respect they deserve.
“The previous government delayed progress in reforming mental health legislation. We hope the new government keeps to its promises and introduces a Bill without delay. Only then can we truly honour World Mental Health Day.”
Notes to editors
About the Law Society
The Law Society is the independent professional body that works globally to support and represent solicitors, promoting the highest professional standards, the public interest and the rule of law.
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