The Mental Health Act 1983 (amended in 2007) is a piece of legislation (in England and Wales) regarding the following aspects of law around people with Mental Illness:
- Assessment and treatment in hospital (both informally and formal detention);
- Assessment and treatment in the community, including a Community Treatment Order and a Guardianship Order; and
- Pathways into hospital, which can be civil or criminal.
There are 5 guiding principles that apply throughout the Act:
- Least restrictive option and maximising independence;
- Empowerment and involvement;
- Respect and dignity;
- Purpose and effectiveness; and
- Efficiency and equity.
For further information see: Mental Health Act 1983: Code of Practice