Advocacy - Mental health
People with mental health needs can sometimes feel that they are
not being listened to by health and social care professionals,
other service providers and sometimes their own families.
They can be disadvantaged and face discrimination because of
their mental health.
An independent advocate will:
- represent the person’s views as if they were their own
- protect their rights and entitlements to services
- gather information
- help people to make their own decisions and choices
- ensure that the person has the opportunity to participate
in decisions made about them and more importantly, ensure that they
remain central to any and all decisions
- signpost people to other agencies with relevant expertise,
where appropriate.
The support of an independent advocate is available for people with
mental health needs living independently in the community as well
as for those who are in hospital, in Kent.
Independent Mental Health Advocates (IMHA)
People who are detained under The Mental Health Act (other than
short term emergency sections) now have a statutory right to
an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA). This includes people
who are subject to guardianship or community treatment orders
(CTO's). An IMHA is a specialist advocate who will ensure that the
person’s voice is heard in all issues around their care and
treatment under the Act.
For further information on IMHA in your area, please refer to
the following websites:
West Kent
Day Services - MHR Hub
The Hub is a friendly vibrant centre managed by Tunbridge Wells
Mental Health Resource creating opportunities for people with
mental health issues to meet with our qualified team of staff who
are here to help identify your needs and support you to deal with
your difficulties.
The Hub provides a variety of activities to help raise confidence
and self esteem thus encouraging positive emotional and physical
well-being. You can choose from a range of activities ranging from
art and pottery to computer studies and yoga.
Service User Group- MHR Reachout
Reachout is a project under the umbrella of Tunbridge Wells Mental
Health Resource (MHR). Its groups provide friendly and
confidential peer support based in the community for people with
mental health difficulties.
Reachout groups cover Cranbrook, Edenbridge,Hawkhurst,
Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells and offer friendly,
confidential self-help support in a caring and non-judgemental
environment. Individuals can make friends, share personal
experiences, and find they can understand one another.
East Kent