Mental Health Related Legislation
A summary of mental health related legislation is provided to
help inform services users, carers, public service workers and the
general public about their rights. A list of related legislation is
provided on the left handside column.
Independent Advocacy
An advocate is a person who enables a service user to express
their views regarding their care and treatment by being a voice for
them and encouraging them to speak out for themselves. From October
2005, every person with a mental disorder has a right of access to
independent advocacy.
"Independent advocacy" means being supported by a person or
project who do not offer other services which could cause a
conflict of interest. Anyone who has no support available to help
produce an advanced statement can also approach an advocacy project
for assistance. There are a number of independent advocacy
providers in Lanarkshire. Some projects provide advocacy in certain
areas such as North or South Lanarkshire. Other projects specialise
in working with defined groups of people such as those with a
mental health problem or people of a certain age.
To find out what advocacy services are available in Lanarkshire
visit the service directory.
Mental Health Tribunal.
From October 2005 a new Mental Health Tribunal replaces the
Sheriff Court as the forum for hearing cases under the new Act. The
Tribunal will be involved in considering care plans, deciding on
compulsory treatment orders and carrying out reviews. It is vital
that service users and carers feel able to challenge compulsory
treatment orders if they want to. It is hoped that Tribunals will
be much less intimidating than the Sheriff Court and will encourage
people to participate in proceedings.
The
Mental Health Tribunal for Scotland have their national head
quarters in South Lanarkshire at the following address:
First Floor, Bothwell House,
Hamilton Business Park,
Caird Park,
Hamilton ML3.0QA
Freephone 0800 345 70 60 for Service Users, Carers & Public
members
01698 390000 for Professionals
01698 390049 for Tribunal members
Or e-mail mhts@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Mental Health Officer Services
A Mental Health Officer (MHO) is a specially trained social
worker who has the training, education, experience and skills to
work with people with a mental disorder. MHO's work for the local
authorities who have legal duties under the Mental Health (Care
& Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003. Leaflets are available on
this site (below) providing more information about MHO's. Please
note that services will differ between local authorities and it is
recommended that you contact the relevant local authoirty for more
detailed information.
For more information:
A Guide to the Role of MHO
MHO Service Standards