As one of a select few law firms in the UK that have the legal aid franchise for Mental Health and Mental Capacity matters, we are keenly aware of the significance of this day.
Just today, at the global mental health summit, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced a new appointment of Health Minister Jackie Doyle-Price, whose role will be centred on suicide prevention.
In the UK alone, more than 5,800 people took their lives in 2017, which is something charities like Samaritans look to tackle, by providing 24/7 advice and support. Theresa May has promised to designate £1.8million to the charity to ensure it keeps going for the next 4 years. The Samaritans can be reached if you call 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org.
Other charities which offer support for mental health in the community include:
- MIND – call a member of their specialist team on 0300 123 3393 or text 86463
- CALM – a service for men. One of their support operators is available on 0800 58 58 58 between 5pm and midnight every day. You can also reach them through their online chat service.
- Papyrus – this is for all under 35s and you can call 0800 068 41 41 10am to 10pm (Monday to Friday) 2pm to 10pm(weekends), 2pm to 5pm(bank holidays) or text them on 07786 209697.
- Childline – for all children up to 19 years of age. There will be someone to talk to if you call 0800 1111 and the number does not show up on your phone bill.
- The Silver Line – this is designed for older people and their specialists are available on 0800 470 80 90
We, at Duncan Lewis, understand that there are many different reasons that someone may need to seek support in regards to their mental health or that of their loved ones. We know how important it is to get support as soon as possible. With a large number of Law Society Mental Health accredited practitioners, our team have extensive expertise in advising individuals on the best course of action for them.
Our Director of Mental Health, based in our Dalston office,
Rachel Caswell, has over 10 years’ experience helping clients restore their liberty, by representing them at First-tier Tribunals. She travels across the country to advocate on behalf of clients, endeavouring to undertake representation from beginning to end of the case; this includes undertaking Tribunals, Managers Hearings and attendance at Section 117 aftercare meetings. In instances where Rachel’s clients are considered to lack capacity, she is appointed to act in their best interests. She also has extensive experience of representing clients subject to Civil sections, such as section 3, section 2 and forensic sections of the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended by the 2007 Act).
Rachel, and our Mental Health team, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for our clients. As a member of the MHLA (Mental Health Lawyers Association) she remains up-to-date on all aspects of Mental Health law.
She states:
“It is true to say many people are, sadly, affected by mental illness. We, at Duncan Lewis, recognise the need for support and guidance though the legal process, particularly when an individual finds themselves detained under the Mental Health Act. We represent clients across the country, in order to restore their liberty.”
Please call Rachel on
0207 275 2793 or email
rachelc@duncanlewis.com should you require any advice in relation to your mental health case.
Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors
Duncan Lewis is the largest provider of mental health legal aid in the UK and provides a specialist service to all those suffering with mental health problems detained under The Mental Health Act 1983.
We provide expert advice on matters relating to The Mental Health Act, including admission to hospital, consent to treatment and aftercare provisions as well as giving clear guidance on the nearest relative’s role and rights. Our solicitors have extensive experience challenging the decisions made in Tribunals and Primary Care Trusts, or the lawfulness of detention by way of judicial review, commissioning independent psychiatric and social circumstances reports and providing representation at Mental Health Review Tribunals.
To speak to a specialist Mental Health solicitor please call
0333 772 0409.