What is Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)
People who are ‘sectioned’ under the Mental Health Act have a legal right to an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA).
The IMHA works for you and helps you get what you think is best for you. They can help you to tell people your views and wishes.
An IMHA is independent, they are not a member of the health or social care team, and plays no part in your treatment and care.
We currently provide IMHA in Hartlepool
How to get in touch
You can contact us on 0191 281 8737 or email information@skillsforpeople.org.uk
All referrals go through Hartlepool Borough Council.
How we can help
These are some of the ways in which an IMHA might help you:
- Helping you to understand your rights
- Request a review of your section through access to a mental health tribunal
- Understanding how to raise concerns about your experience and/or care in hospital
- Helping you to find out information about your treatment
- Preparing and supporting you at meetings, ward rounds or care reviews
- Being fully involved in your care planning
- Helping you to find out whether any conditions or restrictions apply to you
- Protecting your rights
Skills for People is an independent charity. Our advocates are independent, they are not a member of the health or social care team which support you, and they play no part in your treatment and care.
We have been been awarded the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi).
We work to the principles of the Advocacy Charter.