WHAT’S THE LEAST
I SHOULD EXPECT?

When you go into hospital you have certain rights and there are things that should happen, these are listed below:

•   Your best interest must always be taken into account

•   You should always be kept as fully informed as possible, and receive clear and detailed information concerning your care

•   Your views, wishes and feelings should always be considered

•   You should always be treated with respect

•   You must be informed of the type or nature of treatment that is being proposed; the reason for it and for how it is likely to affect you

•   You have a right to withdraw your consent to treatment at any time, and must be told how and when treatment can be given to you without your consent

•   Your progress and possible changes in your care plan should be reviewed at regular intervals

•   You have a right to appeal against a decision to section you under the Mental Health Act

•   Any intervention in your life (like how long you are kept in hospital) should be as unrestrictive as possible, and mean the least possible separation from your family, friends, community and school

•   You have the right to have contact with family and friends either through visits or on the phone (except under exceptional circumstances)

•   Any intervention in your life should result in the least amount of stigma

•   You should be able to have as much access to education that is suitable and right for you

•   You have a basic right to food, shelter, water, warmth, a comfortable environment, confidentiality or reasonable privacy (both physical privacy and privacy in regard to your personal thoughts and feelings).

Created by Advocacy in Somerset - Registered Charity No. 1093096

Initially funded by the Childrens Rights Alliance for England’s
Ready Steady Change Programme

Upgrade in 2008 funded by the National Institute for Mental Health in England
and the Department of Health

Copyright © Advocacy in Somerset Ltd 2009