A managers’ hearing is another way of applying for discharge. You can apply for a managers’ hearing in addition to, or instead of, a tribunal hearing.
The managers’ hearing is organized by the detaining hospital trust itself. It is not therefore independent in the way a Mental Health Tribunal is.
At a managers’ hearing, a panel of three people appointed by the hospital trust will consider your application for discharge.
The procedure at the managers’ hearing is very similar to that at a tribunal, although your case will not be considered in quite as much detail.
You are entitled to be legally represented at a managers’ hearing.
Discharge rates following managers’ hearings are lower than they are following tribunal hearings.
Managers’ hearings will automatically be convened to review your case (whether you have applied for one or not) if you are detained under s3 (or 37) and your section is about to be or has recently been renewed.