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The Mental Health Act 1983

Views of Section 12(2)-approved doctors on selected areas of current legislation

Reaside Clinic, Birmingham Great Park, Bristol Road South, Rubery, Birmingham B45 9BE

^* Correspondence

Aims and method A one-in-five random sample (n=104) of practitioners approved under Section 12(2) of the Mental Health Act 1983 in the West Midlands was selected. Opinions were sought on issues relating to current law and potential reform.

Results Eighty-three (80%) doctors were interviewed. Over half (52%) stated that the term ‘mental illness’ in the Act was unsatisfactory. Two-thirds (68%) specified the need for a review of legislation relating to treatment in the community.

Clinical implications There was a diversity of views. This is likely to be reflected in the clinical practice of those interviewed. Many respondents believed that there was a need for reform in specific areas of the Act.