Projects
Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)
Following the review of the 1983 Mental Health Act in 2007 a number of important amendments were made.
One of the amendments gave the right to patients detained under the Act in Hospital or in the Community to have access to a specialised IMHA advocate.
We currently have two Advocates who have gained the City and guilds IMHA accreditation and a third advocate who has almost completed her portfolio.
Information on how to contact an IMHA will be given to qualifying patients; a patient has the right to refuse the service.
The role of the IMHA with the agreement of the patient:
- To ensure that qualifying patients understand the reasons for the section being applied
- Patients are made aware and understand their right of appeal against the section
- We will speak on your behalf at meetings
- Accessing medical records when appropriate
- Help resolve issues and disputes patients may have regarding their care
- Obtain information for a tribunal
- We will assist patients in making sure they understand information being given to them
This service is being provided at:
The Linden Centre and includes the Mother and Baby Unit and the Christopher Unit
The Crystal Centre in Chelmsford a unit for the Elderly
The Priory hospital in Chelmsford
