Our recent research looked at Nearest Relatives’ views on their experiences.
Generally Nearest Relatives had negative experiences where they were not given enough information. The role was seen as beneficial, burdensome or both. The role could involve distress, relief or frustration so was a conflicted experience. Nearest Relatives identified that they often undertook the role out of duty.
People felt that assumptions were made about their knowledge, and they often had to find out information themselves. They were uncertain about the scope of their rights and powers, and felt the role lacked status.
Nearest Relatives wanted more recognition, better information and more support.
Image from the Mental Health Foundation Image Library
We have also explored Approved Mental Health Professionals’ views on working with Nearest Relatives. Our practice survey and focus groups found that professionals consulted with Nearest Relatives in nearly all relevant situations. They saw the Nearest Relative role as a safeguard for the detained person as Nearest Relatives could ask for information or advocate for them. There could be practical issues with getting in contact with the Nearest Relative and professionals struggled to weigh up when and how much to consult them, particularly if the patient didn’t want the contact to happen.
Look at our poster to find out more.
Find out more about Nearest Relatives’ experiences.
Find out more about Approved Mental Health Professionals’ views.