Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)

From April 2009, under the Mental Health Act, certain "qualifying" patients now have the legal right to an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA). They are qualified Mental Health Advocates who will support people who are subject to certain sections of the Mental Health Act. Like with other advocates, IMHA's are independent of people involved in the patient's care. IMHA's will explain how the Mental Health Act applies to patients and what it means. They will explain what the patient's rights are and support them to access information about their treatment. They can also support patients to ensure that their views are heard. The IMHA service is completely free to the patient.

Who can refer to the IMHA Service?

Referrals to IMHA can come from anyone. IMHA's have a duty to respond to requests to visit a patient received from:

• Patients
• Nearest relatives
• Responsible clinicians
• Approved mental health professionals

Patients can turn down the IMHA support.

Who qualifies for an IMHA?

• Patients who are liable to be detained, or have been detained under the Act (except in certain emergency situations)
• Patients subject to guardianship
• Patients on Supervised Community Treatment Orders
• Informal patients who are discussing the possibility of treatment to which s57 or s58A applies (neurosurgery for mental disorder or electroconvulsive therapy for patient under 18 years)

For more information contact us on 01424 441567 or 01323 749671 or email us on mha@seap.org.uk