Mental Health Law Research Programme

In 2003, the Scottish Parliament passed a new Mental Health Care and Treatment Act and continues to work to reform other Scottish laws that relate to mental health issues.

To support the reform process, the Government now funds a comprehensive research programme. It is developed and managed by researchers based in the Health Department Analytical Services Division.

The aims of the research programme are to:

  • provide information to support the implementation of the new Mental Health Act (2003)
  • contribute baseline information to build understanding of the operation of the 1984 Mental Health Act that it replaces
  • evaluate the operation and impact of the new Act
  • evaluate whether the aims of introducing the new Act have been achieved, taking into account the expectations of all stakeholders
  • contribute to an evidence base that will inform the development of future policy in mental health law

The research also aims to maintain an overview of all mental health law research currently being conducted across Scotland. This will help to minimise overlap, avoid gaps and act as an information resource to policy colleagues, service providers and service users.

For further information on this work, including guidance on how stakeholders can get involved and links to research already published, visit the mental health law reform website.

Contact:

Jamie Pitcairn
Public HealthTeam, Analytical Services Division
e: Jamie.Pitcarn@scotland.gsi.gov.uk