About this episode

The episode discusses the challenges faced by Nearest Relatives under the Mental Health Act, featuring insights from mental health advocates and researchers.

Have you ever considered what the role of a Nearest Relative is like? Under the Mental Health Act for England and Wales, any one of us could be thrust into the role, carrying the weight of its legal responsibilities, pressures of supporting our family member, and navigating the ever-complex mental health system. A recent research project funded by UK Research and Innovation conducted with AMHPs and Nearest Relatives has co-created a package of tools and guidance to address these very challenges. The resources have been borne out in-depth research revealing the trauma, distress and isolation that many Nearest Relatives experience. Host Jonny Adamson is joined by Mental Health Advocate and Nearest Relative, Debbie Best, Dr Jeremy Dixon from Cardiff University and Professor Judy Laing from Bristol University Law School to discuss the findings and support being made available. They also explore how else the mental health system could be strengthened and whether the reforms being brought in through the new Mental Health Act will be enough. This episode touches on some difficult themes related to mental ill health, so listener discretion is advised. Details of mental health support are…

People in this episode

Host: Jonny Adamson

Guests: Debbie Best, Dr Jeremy Dixon, Professor Judy Laing

Topics covered

• Mental Health Act
• Nearest Relatives
• Carers
• Mental Health Advocacy
• Legal Responsibilities
• Support Systems

Keywords

• Mental Health
• Nearest Relative
• Carers
• Legal Responsibilities
• Mental Health System
• Support Resources

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BASW, Cardiff University, Bristol University Law School, UK Research and Innovation

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