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 The introduction of supervised community treatment
(SCT) through the 2007 amendments to the Mental Health Act
1983 was one of the most significant changes to mental health
law in the last 20 years. It is also an element which has proved
controversial, and both service user and professional groups have
voiced strong views about its use.
In addition, the introduction of SCT has highlighted
the need to fully understand other areas of the Mental Health Act
1983, where people can remain subject to its powers whilst residing
outside of hospital.
As with all areas of the Act, its guiding
principles should inform practice. These are described in the
Code of Practice as follows:
- Purpose principle – minimising
undesirable effects of mental disorder by maximising safety and
wellbeing, promoting recovery and protecting others from
harm.
- Least restriction principle – minimising
the restrictions imposed on a persons liberty whilst having regard
to the purpose for which the restrictions are imposed.
- Respect principle – respecting diverse
needs, values and circumstances of individuals. Consider the
patient’s views wishes and feelings and follow them where
practicable and consistent with the purpose.
- Participation principle – patients,
family and carers should be involved as far as practicable in
planning, developing and reviewing treatment.
- Effectiveness, efficiency and equity
principle – using resources effectively, efficiently
and equitably to meet the needs of patients.
This module will consider how these
principles may be applied with regard to Supervised Community
Treatment, Section 17 Leave and Guardianship.
Start the
module
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