IMHA (Independent Mental Health Advocate)
Independent Mental Health Advocates were introduced into the Mental Health Act 2007 as a statutory right for people detained under the Mental Health Act. Patients have the right to be provided with support by an Advocate. The IMHA will provide the patient with information on their rights, medication and any restrictions or conditions to which they are subject. They provide an additional safeguard for patients who are subject to the Act.
The IMHA is a specialist advocate who will have appropriate training and experience to carry out the role. The IMHA service is independent of the NHS.
Who will have the right to an IMHA?
A patient who is detained under the Act (even if they are on leave under Section 17)
A patient who is conditionally discharged
A person who is subject to guardianship
A patient who is on a supervised community treatment order.
The Role IMHA
IMHAs will help patients obtain information about and understand
- Their rights under the Act
- The rights which other people have in relation to them under the Act
- The particular parts of the Act which apply to them
- Any medical treatment that they are receiving or might receive
Referrals can be made by patients or by a third party. To make a referral please phone 0844 248 9 248.
IMHA Professionals Leaflet.pdf
IMHA Service User Leaflet.pdf
IMHA Presentation.pdf
IMHA Referral Form.pdf
External Links
Department of Health IMHA Information
Social Care Institute of Excellence IMHA Information