New expert group to shape mental health law

A group of social work and health experts have been given a
leading role in shaping mental health law and services in Scotland
following a formal statement by Malcolm Chisholm, deputy minister
for community care.

The mental health reference group was created following the
publication of the Milan Committee report last month which proposed
a wide range of changes to mental health legislation in Scotland.
Changes included less use of compulsory care, mental health
tribunals being taken out of the courts and the right to transfer
patients deemed dangerous to the public between hospital and
prisons.

Chisholm said: “The more complex and contentious recommendations
require further analysis. The mental health reference group will
act as a consultative body to which the Scottish executive can
refer issues for consideration, and comment as it prepares to
publish a policy statement on the Milan recommendations later this
month.”

www.scotland.gov.uk/milan

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