How we inspect an Approved Centre?

Section 51(1)(a) of the Mental Health Act 2001 (the 2001 Act) states that the main function of the Inspector is to 

“visit and inspect every approved centre at least once a year and to visit and inspect any other premises where mental health services are being provided as he or she thinks appropriate”. 

Assistant Inspectors of Mental Health Services 

The role of the Assistant Inspector(s) of Mental Health Services is to assist the Inspector of Mental Health Services in the discharge of her/his duties. Assistant Inspectors report to the Inspector of Mental Health Services. The authority and responsibility of the Inspector is delegated to Assistant Inspectors to conduct inspections and report on their findings under the direction of the Inspector.  

The Regulatory Process within the Mental Health Commission 

The regulatory process of the Mental Health Commission is comprised of two distinct but complementary branches- the Inspectorate function and Standards and Quality Assurance function. Inspection reports are sent by the Inspectorate to Standards and Quality Assurance for follow up and/or enforcement where there are non-compliances. Action plans from mental health services to address non-compliances are monitored by Standards and Quality Assurance. All reports are published on the MHC website.