Mental Health Act 1983: code of practice

This code of practice provides guidance to mental health professionals and other practitioners on how they should carry out their duties under the Mental Health Act. As well as providing guidance for professionals, the revised code of practice also guides patients, their families and carers on their rights. Chapters are grouped into seven areas: Using the Act; Protecting patient's rights and autonomy; Assessment, transport and admission to hospital; Additional considerations for the needs of specific patients; Care, support and treatment in hospital; Leaving hospital; and additional information for professional with specific responsibilities under the Act. Subjects covered in individual chapters include: the nearest relative; independent mental health advocates; mental capacity and deprivation of liberty; detention in hospital; police community treatment orders; guardianship; after care; and care programme approach. The code of practice will come into force on 1 April 2015, depending on Parliamentary approval.