Leila's blog

Wed, Feb 20, 2008

Making sense of mental health

You may remember I first blogged about Legislative Competence Orders (LCOs) in September last year - the mechanism by which the Welsh Assembly can increase it's powers and make new laws, subject to Westminster approval. On Monday a new LCO was tabled by Jonathan Morgan AM. His LCO would make some urgently needed changes to mental health treatment in Wales - by giving patients a right to assessment and treatment in a therapeutic setting before compulsion becomes the only safe option, and; to receive independent advocacy.

Jonathan Morgan AM said: “Reform of mental health legislation is long overdue. I am proud to be the first Assembly Member to put forward proposals which could bring that about. One in four people will suffer from some form of mental health illness in their lifetime – while many people who end up being detained under the Mental Health Act are capable of assessment and treatment before the final step is taken.It is our duty to ensure the level of care we provide is appropriate, of a high standard, and treats patients with dignity and respect."
These are sentiments I am happy to agree with. Suffering from a mental illness still has a stigma attached making it harder for people to reach out for help, often at the early stages when intervention can be of most use. Given the tragic suicides occurring not just in Bridgend but across the country an overhaul of mental health services, including improved access and funding, is long overdue.

Comments and questions