Mental Health Act Commission biennial report: Rethink comment
A comment from mental health charity Rethink in response to the Mental Health Act Commission’s biennial report:
Jane Harris, head of campaigns, says:
“It is frightening to hear that the MHAC’s investigations found some wards tougher and scarier than they were ten years ago, despite the significant investment in mental health services. The money is clearly not enough and doesn’t seem to be getting through to the areas where it is needed most. It is unacceptable that in 2008 people in need of treatment are being forced to stay in dilapidated, overcrowded wards where they are at risk of sexual assault, and where they are lucky if they have a bed to sleep in.
“The work of the MHAC has been vital in exposing such degradation and in safeguarding the rights and dignity of people detained under the Mental Health Act. It is important that the new Care Quality Commission, due to come into force in April 2009, keeps up the good work of the MHAC. The CQC owes it to people in hospital to carry out at least the same number of inspections, if not more”.
For further comment or more information contact Rethink’s media team on 020 7330 9112
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