Understanding Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) for mental health staff

Independent mental health advocacy (IMHA) is a statutory right that applies to people who are detained under most provisions of the mental health law or who are involved in community treatment orders (CTO). This briefing will explain the roles of qualified IMHA and the steps that mental health staff can perform to support access to IMHA support using the service.

The Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA) is a specially trained person who can meet the needs of patients within the mental health law. Independent mental health advocacy services are not a replacement for other promotions and support services available to patients. IMHA works with these services. Talented patients should be responsible or responsible for referring to clinicians, approved mental health experts (AMHP), or recent relatives, but for any reason to ask themselves Impossible or impossible. All patients lacking the ability to decide whether to receive assistance from IMHA must refer to the service

Independent mental health advocacy (IMHA) is a statutory right that applies to people who are detained under most provisions of the mental health law or who are involved in community treatment orders (CTO). This briefing will explain the roles of qualified IMHA and the steps that mental health staff can perform to support access to IMHA support using the service.

Under most provisions of the Mental Health Act, IMHA is a statutory right under the supervision of a parent or community treatment order (CTO). If someone is detained in a hospital or CTO, this can be a very messy and painful experience. Independent of mental health services, IMHA can help people to listen to their opinions and to ensure that they understand their legal rights. IMHA may have a significant impact on people's detention experience and is highly appreciated by people using the service. However, according to the survey, only about half of those who can access IMHA can actually be accessed.