Independent Mental Health Advocates (IMHA)

The amended Mental Health Act now gives a statutory right to those people being detained (sectioned) having access to an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA).

An IMHA is a specialist advocate who can provide information, access records and ensure that the person secure his/her rights under the Act. An IMHA does not in any way affect the person's right to legal advice and representation (a Solicitor) and does not duplicate any work that a Solicitor will carry out.

As this is a statutory requirement, an IMHA has a responsibility within the Act to carry out this role.

Requests for an IMHA can be made by contacting the Network's office on 01322 285234.

This page last updated Fri, 3 April 2009 23:20:53 GMT