Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) Service

The IMHA Service is a new statutory advocacy service, introduced by the Mental Health Act 2007, which aims to empower and safeguard people who are under compulsion under Mental Health legislation.

• Under the Mental Health Act 2007, the NHS or Local Authority have a responsibility to advise everyone under compulsion that they have the right to an advocate.
• The IMHA is independent of people involved in the patient’s care.
• It is the patient’s choice as to whether they want the support of an IMHA.
• Having the support of an IMHA does not prevent the patient also having legal representation or other advocacy services.
• The IMHA service is free of charge.

The IMHA role involves helping people obtain information and understand:

• The provisions of the legislation which they are subject to.
• The rights which other people have in relation to them under legislation.
• Any conditions or restrictions placed on them.
• What medical treatment is being given, is proposed or is being considered.
• The authority under which the treatment would be given and the requirements that would apply.
• Their rights under the legislation and supporting people exercise their rights (which may include speaking on their behalf, representation or support accessing legal advice/representation).