Who decides that someone should be detained? In emergenciesĪn emergency is when someone seems to be at serious risk of harming themselves or others.

read or download easy read factsheets, which explain in simple terms your rights and choices when you're detained under the Mental Health Act.

browse Rethink's guide What sort of ward will my relative be on?.

Not all hospitals will be able to offer a ward dedicated to each gender, but all should at least offer same-sex toilets and wash facilities. Hospital accommodation should be age- and gender-appropriate. You can also raise concerns or worries with the doctors and nurses on the ward. With permission from your relative, doctors may discuss the treatment plan with you. If you're unable to see your relative, staff should explain why. In some cases the patient may refuse visitors, and hospital staff will respect the patient's wishes. Visiting arrangements depend on the hospital, so check visiting hours with staff or on the hospital website. If your loved one has been detained, he or she will have to stay in hospital until the doctors or a mental health tribunal decide otherwise. The Rethink website has published NHS guidance for anyone affected by the Mental Health Act during the coronavirus outbreak.

The government have made some temporary changes to the Mental Health Act due to coronavirus. Information: Changes to the Mental Health Act during the coronavirus outbreak

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