A new report by the Care Quality Commission has found that some Mental Health services and healthcare providers need to make sure they are complying fully with human rights principles.

The new CQC report – ‘Monitoring the Mental Health Act in 2018/19’ – found that in some cases, people are not receiving the care they need and that some services are struggling to offer appropriate options – either in the community or in hospitals.

The Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA) provides the authority to detain and treat people suffering from a mental illness that may need protection for their own safety, or the safety of others.

What does the report say?

This report arrives at a particularly important time, with Sir Stephen Bubb calling for more investment into community care facilities after the Tate modern incident last year involving Jonty Bravery, who has autism.

The incident has highlighted a number of issues in the treatment of Mental Health conditions, with an investigation underway to ascertain how the attack could have been prevented.

Speaking on the future of the Mental Health Act, Dr Kevin Cleary, CQC’s Deputy Chief Inspector for Mental Health and Community Services, stated that “The upcoming Government white paper detailing future reform of the MHA is a real opportunity for a more human rights-based approach.”

The report calls for a continuous review of the frameworks with which human rights principles are applied in Mental Health care providers. This includes ensuring that services keep a thorough account of a person’s experience with them.

How could this impact you?

At Care 4 Quality., we always recommend keeping extensive documentation of interaction with patients – particularly with a vulnerable service user group. This is vital in ensuring the safety of everyone involved and the correct implementation of the Mental Health Act. 

If you are a healthcare provider that delivers vital Mental Health services and wish to speak with one of our expert consultants, please get in touch.