Code of Practice on the Use of Electro-Convulsive Therapy for Voluntary Patients

The Mental Health Commission has published a revised Code of Practice on the Use of Electro-Convulsive Therapy for Voluntary Patients pursuant to Section 33(3)(e) of the Mental Health Act 2001.

The updated Code of Practice will, in January 2010, replace the current version of the Code which first came into effect in January 2008. At this time, the Commission indicated its intention to keep the Code under periodic review and to revise it as required. The Code has been updated following a review of the Rules Governing the Use of Electro-Convulsive Therapy as the Code in many respects, mirrors the provisions set out under the Section 59(2) rules.

The main amendments to the Code of Practice are indicated in the Memorandum on Key Revisions Contained in the Code of Practice on the Use of Electro-Convulsive Therapy for Voluntary Patients, Version 2.click here to view the memorandum

The Commission is of the view that adherence to the Code will ensure that the rights of residents are upheld and that a culture of respect continues to be fostered within approved centres.

The revised Code will be effective from 1st January 2010 and inspections by the Inspectorate of Mental Health Services in 2010 will include inspection of compliance with the Code. It is important to note that the provisions of Version 1 of the Code remain in place until 1st January 2010.