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Changes to Mental Health Bill Not Radical Enough, Say Campaigners

Posted on: Friday, 5 August 2005, 09:00 CDT

Mental health organisations and nurses have reacted with anger to the government's latest plans to reform the Mental Health Act.

The government has rejected many of the recommendations made by a parliamentary committee set up to scrutinise the proposed legislation.

A key concern is that the government is sticking to its plans to detain people who are a potential threat, even if they are unlikely to benefit from treatment.

Nurses are also anxious because the government remains committed to introducing compulsory treatment orders, which could force patients in their own homes to take medicines.

In March Lord Carlisle, chair of the parliamentary committee, described the bill as 'fundamentally flawed'. He said it was 'too focused on addressing public misconception about violence and mental illness and does not do enough to protect patients' rights'.

Recommendations rejected

The committee made more than 100 recommendations but the government has rejected about half of them.

Richard Brook, chief executive of the mental health organisation Mind, said he was saddened a government that described itself as'listening'had relied on a 'we know best' attitude.

'We hoped the government would grasp the opportunity to deliver the necessary legislation for a mental health system delivering effective and compassionate mental health care/

Paul Farmer, chair of the Mental Health Alliance, said despite concessions on improving patients' rights, he still had serious concerns about the bill.

'Mental health workers, service users and carers are pleased the government has said it will consider improving patients' rights. But they will be disappointed and angry that the government intends to press ahead with plans to broaden powers for compulsion and deny professionals the flexibility they need to offer people the right care and support.'

Protesters have waged a strong campaign against the bill, but ministers are sticking to their plans

Mr Farmer said the government risked 'clogging up' services with people who cannot be treated and should not be detained. RCN mental health adviser Ian Hullattsaid nurses still had serious concerns about compulsory community treatment orders.

Unison head of nursing Gail Adams said: 'Many organisations have expressed genuine concern over the new bill. We need to ensure that any problems and practical difficulties are picked up quickly.'

Government response

Ministers are determined that the legislation will work. Home office minister Fiona Mactaggart said: The way to prevent harm is to ensure people who need treatment can receive it when they need it - that is, before they reach crisis point and harm themselves.1 Health minister Rosie Winterton added that patients face less risk of social exclusion if they are treated in the community.

Copyright RCN Publishing Company Ltd. Jul 20-Jul 26, 2005

Source: Nursing Standard

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