National coalition for mental health publishes Plain English guide on the Mental Health Bill
Mental Health Reform has welcomed Cabinet’s decision to introduce the Mental Health Bill 2024 for debate in the Dáil on 18th September.
Mental Health Reform has called on the Government to schedule the Bill for second stage debate and ensure the legislation is brought to committee stage before the general election.
Ber Grogan, Policy and Research Manager, commented: “We warmly welcome the progress in bringing the Bill to its second stage. There is an urgent need to reform the Mental Health Act, 2001 to protect the rights of people receiving mental health treatment and care in in-patient settings.
The Mental Health Bill will have a profound impact on people with mental health difficulties, their family members and carers. Every year, over 15,000 people in Ireland are admitted to in-patient mental health units. Last year, more than 2,500 people were involuntarily detained under the Mental Health Act. It is paramount that people who access mental health services receive care that respects their will and preferences and supports their recovery.
Mental Health Reform is today publishing a Plain English guide to support people to understand the key changes in the Mental Health Bill. The guide aims to make the legislation more accessible to members of the public. It has been written to encourage optimum discussion about the new laws for everyone concerned with mental health.
Our research shows that many people using mental health services do not feel that they are being treated with dignity or respect. They say they do not have enough choice or control over their mental health treatment, such as the medications they are given. Without urgent reform, people with mental health difficulties will continue to be impacted by inappropriate and outdated practices.
Mental Health Reform is urging the Government to continue prioritising the Bill before the General Election. Any further delays would be a significant setback for the thousands of individuals and families who have waited years for these vital reforms. As the Bill progresses, we look forward to working with our members and the Government on the necessary amendments. It is crucial that the voices of people with lived experience are heard and listened to in this process.”
