Since the implementation of the Mental Health Act 1983 there have been many changes and amendments to the Act. Other legislation has meant additional responsibilities and duties to those who care for the mentally ill and to ensure that the law is carefully followed.

The '83 Act is at present under review and a new Act will be introduced shortly.

Aims & Objectives

The course will include:

• The principles of the Mental Health Act 1983, the Code of Practice (published March 1999), the Memorandum (published 1998) and other recent statutory legislation.
• The importance of appropriate care.
• The importance of information/advocacy.
• The role of the nearest relative.
• Consent to Treatment/Capacity and consent.
• Case Law.
• plus an overview of the proposals in the Green paper