Code of Practice on the Use of Physical Restraint in Approved Centres

The Mental Health Commission has published a revised Code of Practice on the Use of Physical Restraint in Approved Centres pursuant to Section 33(3)(e) of the Mental Health Act 2001.

The updated Code of Practice will, in Januaary 2010, replace the current version of the Code which first came into effect in November 2006 in order to meet the requirements of the Mental Health Act, 2001. At this time, the Commission indicated its intention to keep the Code under periodic review and to revise it as required. As a result, it commissioned an independent review of the Code which was carried out between September and December 2008 and involved an extensive stakeholder consultation.The Code has now been revised to take account of the recommendations arising from the review.

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 Physical Restraint in Approved Centres, 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.

The Commission wishes to thank all those involved in the review process.

See Consultation section to view the review report.