How we Support Patients Under Sections 135 and 136 of the Mental Health Act

In the complex, ever-changing landscape of mental health care, Secure24 is on hand to provide secure patient transport for individuals with mental health illnesses in emergency and non-emergency settings.

Our primary object is always to support individuals of all ages who have to navigate mental health illnesses and complex needs and ensure they receive the correct level of care they require.

There are certain pieces of legislation in place to assist individuals and organisations when mental health-related challenges and crises occur.  

The Mental Health Act governs the treatment, care, and rights of individuals with mental health conditions in England and Wales. 

It informs individuals experiencing mental health illnesses about their rights in the community and professional settings, and there are different sections that all relate to different circumstances.

Sections 135 and 136 of the Mental Health Act relate to police intervention and how they transport individuals to a place of safety. Secure24 provides vital support to both police and local authorities when supporting patients under Sections 135 and 136, which you can read more about just below.

Understanding Secure24: A Brief Overview

Secure24 is a specialised service provider dedicated to offering comprehensive support for individuals with mental health illnesses and complex needs. Focusing on secure ambulance and ward assist services, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner in the mental health care sector. Our mission revolves around providing patient-centred care, ensuring safety, and facilitating recovery pathways for those in need.

The Mental Health Act: Sections 135 and 136 Explained

Section 135: Warrant to Search and Remove

Section 135 allows for a magistrate to issue a warrant permitting police officers, accompanied by an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) and a doctor, to enter private premises. This provision is typically invoked when there’s concern that a person with a mental disorder may be at risk and in need of immediate care or control.

Section 136: Removal of Mentally Disordered Persons Without a Warrant

Section 136 grants police officers the authority to remove a person from a public place to a designated place of safety if they appear to be suffering from a mental disorder and in immediate need of care or control. This section is crucial for rapid intervention in emergency situations.

Both sections are designed to ensure that individuals receive prompt assessment and appropriate care, balancing the need for immediate intervention with respect for individual rights and dignity.

Secure24’s Role in Supporting Patients Under Sections 135 and 136

Secure24 plays a vital role in the implementation of Sections 135 and 136, offering specialised services that bridge the gap between law enforcement and mental health care. Here’s how we support patients under these sections:

Secure Ambulance Transport

Secure24 provides specialist vehicles equipped specifically for mental health transportation. These ambulances are maintained to the highest standards and fitted with advanced equipment to ensure patient safety and comfort during transport. Our collaboration with NHS Trusts streamlines the process, ensuring compliance with healthcare standards while providing efficient and dignified transport for patients.

Highly Trained Staff

We employ a team of professionals who are extensively trained in managing the specific needs of mental health patients. This expertise is crucial when dealing with individuals who may be in distress or experiencing acute symptoms. Our staff’s ability to provide compassionate care while maintaining security is a cornerstone of our service.

24/7 Availability

Mental health crises don’t adhere to a schedule. Recognising this, we offer round-the-clock services, ensuring that support is available whenever it’s needed. This constant availability is crucial for the effective implementation of Sections 135 and 136, which often involve urgent situations.

Coordination with Police and Local Authorities

We work closely with police and local authorities to facilitate the safe and respectful transport of patients. This collaborative approach ensures that all actions are legal and in the best interest of the patient.

Benefits of Secure24’s Approach

The specialised services provided by Secure24 offer numerous benefits to patients, mental health professionals, and the broader healthcare system:

Enhanced Patient Dignity: Secure24 ensures that patients are treated with respect and dignity during what can be a distressing experience by providing specialised transport and care.

Improved Safety: The use of purpose-built vehicles and trained staff significantly enhances the safety of both patients and healthcare workers during transport and assessment.

Efficient Resource Utilisation: By taking on the specialised role of secure transport, Secure24 allows police and healthcare professionals to focus on their core responsibilities.

Continuity of Care: Our services bridge the gap between initial intervention and admission to a place of safety, ensuring continuity in the patient’s care journey.

Reduced Stigma: The use of specialised, discreet ambulances rather than police vehicles can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health crises.

The specialised nature of our services ensures that patients are transported safely and with dignity to a place of safety. This not only complies with the legal requirements of Sections 135 and 136 but also aligns with best practices in mental health care, prioritising the patient’s wellbeing and recovery.

A Vital Link in Mental Health Crisis Care

Secure24’s role in supporting patients under Sections 135 and 136 of the Mental Health Act is indispensable. By providing specialised transport, trained staff, and round-the-clock availability, we ensure that individuals experiencing mental health crises receive prompt, compassionate, and appropriate care.

For mental health professionals and caregivers, understanding and utilising Secure24’s services can significantly enhance the quality of care provided to patients in crisis situations. By bridging the gap between emergency intervention and appropriate mental health care, Secure24 plays a crucial role in the mental health care ecosystem.

If you’re a mental health professional or caregiver involved in crisis care, consider reaching out to learn more about how our services can support your work and improve outcomes for patients under Sections 135 and 136 of the Mental Health Act.

Contact our control team at control@secure24.org.uk to book. 

You can also call us on 0330 320 1159 or email us at info@secure24.org.uk.

Further Resources

For more information on Sections 135 and 136 of the Mental Health Act and the support available, consider exploring these resources:

Mind – Sections 135 and 136 Legal Information: A detailed explanation of these sections and their implications for patients and professionals.

Government Literature Review on Sections 135 and 136: A comprehensive review of the operation and impact of these sections.

Review for Professionals, Service Users, and Carers:  An in-depth analysis and guideline for all stakeholders involved in the implementation of Sections 135 and 136.