The government has written guidance to help people understand the law about using force in mental health units. They want to know what you think about the guidance.
Using force means to stop somebody from doing something.
A mental health unit is where people stay for treatment for their mental health condition.
The Mental Health Units (Use of Force) Bill received Royal Assent on 1 November 2018.
This is also known as “Seni’s Law” after Olaseni Lewis who tragically died aged 23, after being restrained on a mental health ward by police officers. At the inquest the restraint used was deemed to be excessive, unreasonable and disproportionate. Because of this law, each mental health unit has to publish a policy to set out what steps will be taken to reduce the use of force by staff who work in that unit.
Previously Mind, a national charity with local branches, have been campaigning against restraint for several years and the charity feels there has been progress but not enough. When someone is in crisis they feel they need care not to be restrained.
You might want to read about their campaign work regarding the bill before you send in a response to the open consultation, which can be accessed here.