Use of Section 17: Guidance for Service Users and Staff 29 th November 2013

What is Section 17 leave? Section 17 of the Mental Health Act 1983 allows the responsible medical officer (RMO) to give a detained patient, leave of absence from hospital, subject to conditions the RMO deems necessary. There is no limit to the duration of section 17 leave provided the original authority to detain remains in force.

What is section 17 leave used for? Appropriate use of s17 leave can assist in preparing patients for discharge and by allowing them to build up personal confidence and a level of personal responsibility that ensures when discharge does arrive they are prepared for it. However leave is a powerful and emotive subject that requires careful consideration.

The problems service users identified with using section 17 leave Service users : don't always know what to do with leave time often have limited time Staff and service users: don't always know the local area don't know how long it takes to get to places and back These issues can affect the discussion between staff and service users about how much leave is agreed and where it is taken.

How might we improve this area of practice? Three points to consider include: Better communication Preparation Understanding what resources are available

Developing a plan for sec 17 leave Crumpsall Park A 30 minute ‘green space’ walk Crumpsall Park is a typical example of a small municipal or city/town park opened in Victorian times. It opened in 1890 and is on the site of the home of the Chetham Family. Sir Humphrey Chetham, a member of the family founded Chetham’s Library and Chetham’s Hospital (which later became Chetham’s School of Music). Crumpsall Park is the nearest green space to the hospital. It takes 8 to 9 minutes to walk to the nearest entrance, so if you only have 30 minutes leave, this gives you time for a minute walk around the park. To reach the nearest pedestrian entrance, leave Park House via the exit near to the Orangery and cross Delaunays Road at the pedestrian crossing just outside the front gate and turn left. Go past the health centre and turn left up Birch Road. There is a metal gate across the road right in front of you when you get to the end of Birch Road.

The Section 17 guidance and the 6Cs Helps to improve Communication between staff and service users when discussing leave May improve decisions about Care The fact that staff listened to service user concerns and responded with a solution demonstrates commitment/compassion

Acknowledgement John Hopton, Lecturer University of Manchester John works on Laurel Ward for one shift a week.