Duly Authorised Officers (DAOs) are health professionals – usually senior psychiatric nurses – with special responsibilities under the Mental Health Act. They’re appointed to be points of contact between mental-health services and the community. DAOs help with applications under the Act and arrange assessments. More generally, they provide information and assistance for anyone who has concerns about what mental-health services are available and about how the Mental Health Act works.
Your local District Health Board or GP will be able to give you contact details for DAOs in your area.