top of page

IMHA

As a general rule, if you are subject to the powers of the Mental Health Act 1983 (amended), then you have a legal right to access the IMHA service funded by your Local Authority (please see our Qualifying Patients section).

​

An IMHA is commissioned to work with people who have issues connected to - or directly arising from - the fact that they are subject to the powers of the Act. Normally this means they are an in-patient and are detained under the Act (sectioned).

​

We offer support in:

  • Explaining your rights under the Act

  • Support and/or preparation for meetings e.g. Ward Rounds, Care Programme

  • Approach (CPA), Tribunals, Managers Appeals, etc

  • Referral to specialist organisations e.g. MH solicitors

  • Speaking to professionals with you, or on your behalf

  • Helping to make complaints

  • Information about services

  • Accessing medical records

 

The IMHA works to a professional model of advocacy (specific to a particular issue, and not providing ongoing support) and an instructional model (we work to the client’s instructions and never make decisions on their behalf).

​

There are some areas where the IMHA cannot be involved beyond a cursory level, such as benefits, housing, legal matters (not Mental Health Act), etc. In these cases you should see a generic advocate. Contact us for details.
 

​

​

bottom of page