The role of the Committee is to:
- keep under review and promote improvements in law, practice and procedure affecting individuals with disabilities and the mentally vulnerable;
- promote and develop legal services to patients detained or subject to compulsory powers under the Mental Health Act 1983 or the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and to those with disabilities and who are mentally vulnerable;
- keep under review the role and operation of the Law Society Mental Health Accreditation Scheme; and
- develop tools, guidance and support initiatives for solicitors providing services to individuals with disabilities and the mentally vulnerable.
The Committee has published authoritative guidance for practitioners appearing before a Mental Health Tribunal as well as comprehensive guidance on financial abuse.
With continuing legal uncertainty and concern around the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, the Committee plays a key role in developing a new, and more fit for purpose, framework to ensure the most vulnerable members of society are safeguarded. Guidance for professionals, governmental policy review and recommendation and the continued oversight of work, developments and best practice for those with mental health issues and disabilities are all key to the Committee’s work.
Sheree is looking forward to the challenge of chairing a committee with a broad remit to oversee services and developments for vulnerable clients and empowering the committee to continue to ensure that policy, legislation and guidance remain fit for purpose and helpful to busy practitioners, championing best practice and sharing key learning and experience.
With reform of the Mental Health Act 1983 on the horizon and constantly changing case law to factor in to guidance, as well as developing an accreditation scheme for practitioners undertaking health and welfare Court of Protection work, a busy time in the chair’s role is guaranteed.
Of her appointment as chair, Sheree says "I am very much looking forward to continuing the wonderful work of the Committee and ensuring that the needs and voice of those with a disability or mental health condition are both heard and safeguarded within the legal system. It is a privilege to be chosen as Chair.’
Peter Hubbard, Senior Partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors’ says "We are delighted that Sheree has been appointed to the prestigious role of chair of the Mental Health and Disability Committee. Her appointment recognises Sheree’s personal skills and attributes but above all her passion to improve the services available and provided to those with mental health issues and disabilities. The aims of the Committee accord with our own purpose as a firm – to improve lives, communities and society. We look forward to supporting Sheree and the Committee in their work".
Further information
For more information please contact Sheree Green
