Over the past few months, our Independent Mental Health Advocacy(IMHA) drop-in sessions at Carlton Clinic have become a vital touch point for patients across several mental health wards, offering not just information but meaningful support, empowerment, and connection. These drop-in sessions take place monthly, and they ensure patients have insight to their right to an IMHA.
Opening Doors to Advocacy
Our first drop-in session set the tone for what was to come. Patients were curious and engaged, with one woman bravely asking a nurse for an advocacy referral after our conversation. We handed out information sheets to individuals who expressed interest in advocacy support and spent time explaining patients’ rights under the Mental Health Act.
Our advocates connected with a range of people; some of whom felt they didn’t need an advocate due to family or friends already supporting them. Still, the conversations whether about advocacy or the games we played together on the ward helped build trust and familiarity.
We also received feedback on the Approved Mental Health Professional( AMHP) webpage, patients found it helpful but suggested clearer formatting, larger font sizes, and bigger headings especially important for those over 65 with cognitive difficulties.
By the next drop-in session our presence was becoming more recognised. Patients suggested installing communal suggestion boxes to amplify collective voices. We encouraged participation in ward activities, and we began exploring better ways to communicate and engage with patients more effectively. We followed up on individual cases, such as checking discharge status and referrals to advocacy.
We have taken a proactive approach, by supporting patients to highlight there concerns to professionals and staff on the ward. IMHAs have taken these drop-in sessions as a good opportunity to touch base with their advocacy partners.
IMHAs have had discussion with family members on the ward to bring awareness to them about their rights as nearest relative as well as providing information about the IMHA role and what support we can offer.
These sessions have shown that advocacy isn’t just about formal referrals it’s about being present, listening, and responding. Whether it’s helping someone understand their rights, supporting them to speak up, or simply chatting about their day, our IMHA drop-ins are making a real difference.
Each visit strengthens the bridge between patients and their rights, ensuring that no one feels alone in navigating their care. We remain committed to empowering every voice.
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Support from an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA) is free, confidential and independent from health and care services.
If you think you are eligible for a independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA), please reach out to your social worker or local Adult Social Care office.
If you have tried to contact your social worker or local office and have had difficulty, please contact us directly and we can help you.
- Call us on: 03003 038 037
- Email: [email protected]
- Live chat: wearepeoplefirst.co.uk