Getting your relative admitted to hospital

The Mental Health Act (1983 and 2007) covers the law that allows for the compulsory admission and treatment in hospital of a person who is mentally ill. The admission of someone to hospital against their will is only allowed for their own health or safety or to protect other people. There are also clear procedures to be followed.

If you are considered the ‘nearest relative’ of the person you care for you have certain rights under the Act. There is a clear legal definition of ‘nearest relative’ and not all carers are covered by it. If you feel your relative needs hospital care but they are unwilling to seek it, you can:

• ask for an approved mental health professional to assess whether your relative needs compulsory admission
• apply for compulsory admission yourself.

More information

The mental health charity Mind provides a useful guide (opens in a new window) to seeking hospital treatment on behalf of someone under the Mental Health Act.