News

'Inappropriate use' of sectioning claim Charities have raised concerns that people with learning difficulties are being "inappropriately" detained in psychiatric hospitals under the Mental Health Act 1983.

Mencap has claimed there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that people who should be placed in the community are becoming "trapped" in hospitals.

Head of public affairs David Congdon said: "Social services are not providing for people's needs, so health services are picking up the pieces." He added that sectioning was being used as a way to get people into services when agencies do not know where else to place them. Mencap is looking into how many cases have occurred.

Rob Greig, chair of the Valuing People task force, which is tasked with implementing the government's Valuing People white paper, said he was unaware of "inappropriate" use of sectioning but said he would welcome fresh evidence.

According to a Healthcare Commission report published last year, about 1,000 people with learning difficulties are being held in hospitals either under the Mental Health Act or having been voluntarily admitted.

The task force is working with the commission on gathering information about people with learning difficulties who have been placed in independent sector hospitals, and on 3,000 people placed in NHS residential locations.

If you know of any cases where people with learning difficulties have been inappropriately placed in hospital, please e-mail comcare.news@rbi.co.uk