Code of Practice on Admission, Transfer and Discharge to and from an Approved Centre

The Mental Health Commission published a code of practice on admission, transfer and discharge to and from an approved centre pursuant to Section 33(3)(e) of the Mental Health Act 2001 in September 2009. The Code of Practice came into effect in January 2010.

The development of the code followed a period of consultation with key stakeholders. The Commission wished in particular to involve service users and carers in this process and a series of focus groups were held nationally with service users and carers, facilitated by the National Service User Executive.

The code of practice is in line with the first theme of the Mental Health Commission's Quality Framework for Mental Health Services in Ireland, which is the provision of a holistic seamless service, and the full continuum of care provided by a multi-disciplinary team. Many of the principles and values in a Vision for Change are reflected within the code, such as the importance of involving service user and carers, adopting a recovery approach, liaising with primary care and ensuring co-ordination of services and continuity of care. One of the primary aims of this code is to create a more positive journey to recovery for service users through inpatient mental health services by improving the continuity and co-ordination of the care and treatment provided.

The code is relevant to all partners involved in the delivery of mental health care and treatment including service users, families/carers, advocates, staff in approved centres, community mental health teams, general practitioners/primary care teams, advocacy services and outside agencies. The Commission has also developed a Guide to the Code of Practice for service users, carers and advocates.

Knowledge Review

Frequently asked Questions

See Consultation section to view the Consultation Reports.

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