UK: As far as I know, only a Judge can order an offender to have a mental health assessment?

Question

Is this correct or are there any circumstances where the Police or Prison Service can take the decision that this is necessary and get a mental health assessment carried out against the offenders will?

Answer 1

I think a police officer can arrange for an assessment of someone in police detention. A client of mine had it happen once, but because his mental illness was drug-induced, the doctor did not have to section him.

I think the only way the victim's concerns can be taken into account is by the victim expressing it in the Victim Impact Statement which is read to the court on sentencing.

Hope that helps

Answer 2

not to sure of the details but I think the police can detain someone and forcably have them examined.. its part of the sectioning process. I think the police may have to place that person in front of a medic or judge to complete the process

you as an individual can request a mental health assessment (and I think medics)

Answer 3

Section 136 of the mental heath act......

http://www.hyperguide.co.uk/mha/s136.htm

Section 135 of the mental health act.....

http://www.hyperguide.co.uk/mha/s135.htm

The 136 covers police officers, it allows them to take a person to a place of safety for mental assesment.

Answer 4

If you are in danger of harming yourself or others and you are refusing treatment, an emergency assessment may be necessary. This is when two doctors and an approved social worker (a social worker who is specially trained in mental health) make the assessment. This may lead to admitting you to hospital against your will, under the Mental Health Act 1983. This is often known as 'being sectioned'.

It is important to note that this is rare.

There are three main ways of having an emergency assessment:

*by going to the accident and emergency (A&E) department at a local hospital

*by telephoning the emergency number at the social services department of your local authority  

*if the police take you to a place of safety

This type of assessment is to make sure that you get the support and care you need and that you don't harm yourself or anyone else.