Our response to the CQC’s Mental Health Act Annual Report 2014/2015

Response - 14 December 2015

The CQC have released a new report looking at the 1,292 visits they carried out between April 2014 and March 2015 to check how people detained under the Act are treated.

The CQC’s Mental Health Act Annual Report 2014/2015, found that over half of all mental health inpatients were subject to the Mental Health Act 1983 and expressed concerns over patient involvement in their treatment.

In response to the report, our Chief Executive, Katherine Rake, said:

"Detentions under the mental health act should only be used when absolutely necessary and, when used, patients should be involved in their care and supported to exercise their rights.

“Worryingly, the CQC’s report suggests that this is not always the case.

“This echoes the findings from “Safely Home”, our inquiry into unsafe discharge. We found that some patients are being detained inappropriately in mental health settings because of a lack of alternative options or appropriate community support, which can have devastating knock-on effect on their ongoing wellbeing.

"We want to see adequate community and ongoing support of people with mental health conditions which ensures their treatment and care is appropriate for their individual needs. This could avoid unnecessary detention and further distress for thousands."

You might also be interested in

Shot of a young black man looking stressed out at home

Looking after your mental health all year round

In a post-pandemic world where the cost-of-living crisis is challenging for many of us, prioritising our mental health and wellbeing is necessary.
Advice and Information
Two men sit outside, one is in a wheelchair, talking on a wintery day

What is SAD, and how can you manage it?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by seasonal changes. One in twenty people in the UK are diagnosed with the condition, with men more likely to be diagnosed with SAD than women.
Advice and Information
elective focus shot of mid adult female therapist giving constructive advice to insecure teenage boy, that is struggling with negative emotions, sitting across from her on the sofa, during a therapy session.

What mental health support is available for children and young people?

75% of children and young people who experience mental health problems aren't getting the help they need.
Understanding what support is out there means you can support their emotional and mental wellbeing at times of distress. Knowing about the different services helps inform your choices so you can seek out the right support.
Advice and Information