We list for your information the principles of the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act 2003 and a short explanation
of each. A little note about terminology; we use "mental disorder" as that is the term used in the Law. Please
contact us if you have experienced detention (sectioning) and feel that these principles have not been upheld. We will not
be able to advocate for you individually, but we can give you information about how to access individual advocacy as well
as take your issue generally to the Mental Welfare Commission. It is their responsibility to ensure that these principles
are followed:
1.Non-discrimination-People with mental disorder should, wherever possible, keep the same rights and entitlements
as those with other health needs.
2.Equality-All powers under the Act should be exercised without any direct or indirect discrimination on the grounds
of physical disability, age, gender, sexual orientation, language, religion or national, ethnic or social origin.
3.Respect for diversity-Service Users should recieve care, treatment and support in a manner that accords respect
for their individual qualities, abilities and diverse backgrounds.
4.Reciprocity-Where an obligation is imposed on an individual to comply with a programme of treatment/care, an
obligation is also imposed on the health and social care authorities to provide safe and appropriate services,including ongoing
care following discharge from compulsion (sectioning).
5.Informal Care-Wherever possible, care, treatment and support should be provided to people with mental disorder
without the use of compulsory powers.
6. Participation-Service users should be fully involved, so afr as they are able to be, in all aspects of their
assessment, care, treatment and support. Their past and present wishes should be taken into account. (including those in your
advanced statement and your nominated named person)They should be provided with all the information and support necessary
to enable them to participate fully. (Remember you have a right of access to independent advocacy!)
7. Respect for Carers-Those who provide care to service users on an informal basis should recieve respect for their
role and experience, receive appropriate information and advice, and have their views and needs taked into account.
8. Least restricitve alternative-Service users should be provided with any necessary care, treatment and support
both in the least restrictive way and the least invasive way, and in a place that allows the delivery of safe and effective
care, taking into account the safety of others, where appropriate.
9. Benefit-Any intervention under the Act should be likely to produce a benefit for the service user.
10. Child welfare-The welfare of any child with mental disorder should be paramount in any interventions imposed
on the child under the Act.
