It also recommends advanced directives where mental health patients can state in advance what treatments they are prepared to accept. And it calls for a system of trained advocates who can speak up on patients' behalf. Mixed reaction Mental health charities have given a mixed response to the proposals. Mind is worried about the emphasis on compulsion and says failure to take medication is not the main reason for community care killings. It says research shows lack of coordination between the agencies responsible for community care patients and poor risk assessments are the priniciple reason for the deaths.
Mind wants compulsion to be restricted to people deemed a risk to others.
It fears that the committee's interpretation is wider and may put patients off seeking help. The charity also believes the orders could be in breach of the forthcoming Human Rights Act. It wants to see a full right of appeal against compulsory treatment orders. However, it welcomes the proposal on advanced directives, although it fears the stress on compulsion may mean these are overriden. And it is pleased with the recommendation on advocacy.