Legal News

West Sussex County Council has made a commitment to end the stigma and discrimination people with mental health problems can experience.

The county council has joined a growing number of organisations and companies, which have signed a pledge with ‘Time to Change’ – a programme run by the charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.

The 'Time to Change' pledge shows a commitment to promote a better understanding of mental health problems, while offering support and welfare advice to staff.

West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Relations, Councillor Bob Lanzer, said:

“This is an important step towards stamping out the stigma which can exist around mental ill health.

“We want everyone who works here to feel they can be open about their mental health and to ask for – and get – support, if they need it.

“This commitment not only benefits our staff directly, but it also improves productivity and staff retention.

“With one in four people experiencing mental illness, it's time for businesses to work on their approach – and start creating more helpful and understanding workplaces.”

Time to Change is England’s biggest anti-stigma programme led by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness – and funded by the Department of Health and Comic Relief – to combat discrimination towards people who experience mental health problems.

Other organisations that have signed up are the FA, the Premier League, Transport for London, Citizen’s Advice, The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Church of England, and many NHS trusts, universities and other local authorities.

Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors

Duncan Lewis is the UK’s largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services and can advise mental health patients on a wide range of issues – including access to NHS mental health services and detention under the Mental Health Act.

Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors regularly visit NHS hospitals and police stations to advise on mental health law – and are available nationwide at short notice for hospital and police station appointments.

In some cases, Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors may be able to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient on a range of issues, including initiating treatment reviews where appropriate.

For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors Helpline on 0333 772 0409.