Giving Evidence at a Mental Health Tribunal

This practical and accessibly written guide introduces what practitioners need to know about Mental Health Tribunals, covering the status of the tribunal, its processes, and the evidence that is required from witnesses. Members of the multidisciplinary team in mental healthcare may have a legal duty to provide oral and written evidence at First-Tier Tribunals (mental health). The tribunal acts as a key safeguard in the provision of mental health care under the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended 2007) and it is important that all clinicians contributing evidence understand their role and responsibilities. Helping readers to understand what is required of them as witnesses, and to appreciate the extent of the tribunal's powers, this book provides invaluable information about expected best practice and relevant skills, such as distinguishing between an informed opinion and conjecture.
This text is an essential reference for mental health practitioners and students from a range of professions, including nursing, social work, law, occupational therapy, medicine, and psychology.

Toyin Okitikpi is a qualified social worker with over 40 years' experience in the field of social work and social welfare both as a practitioner and as an academic. He currently sits on several tribunals, and he is an external examiner for Tavistock Portman Foundation and University of East London. He has been involved in research and has written and co-authored academic publications that explore practice-related areas.
Herbert Mwebe is a registered mental health nurse and independent prescriber. He has a combined experience of working clinically and in education of over 20 years. He has written and co-authored academic publications in mental health. He is a specialist advisor to the Care Quality Commission and sits on the First-Tier Mental Health Tribunal as a specialist member. He is an external examiner at Bournemouth University.
Helen Rees is a registered nurse and health visitor. She has worked in mental health nursing education since 2012 and currently holds the role of Professional Nurse Educator Lead for Priory group. Helen currently sits on Mental Health Tribunals as a specialist member and is a steering committee member for the Royal College of Nursing.