It is essential that the rights of patients detained under the Mental Health Act continue to be met during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, during this period of social distancing the processes surrounding Mental Health Tribunals have had to be adjusted in order to keep all parties safe. In this podcast, Chief Medical Member Dr Joan Rutherford outlines the emergency measures that have been put in place, and provides guidance on how clinicians can continue to treat detained patients fairly and respectfully during this time.

Disclaimer: This podcast provides information, not advice. The content in this podcast is provided for general information only and is not intended to, and does not, mount to advice which you should rely on. This is not an alternative to specific advice. Although we make reasonable efforts to present accurate information in our podcasts, we make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in this podcast is accurate, complete or up to date. If you have any questions about any medical matter, you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider without delay. If you think you are experiencing any medical condition, you should seek immediate attention from a doctor or professional healthcare provider. Please note that the views of the interviewees are not necessarily those of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.