There have been some changes to the Mental Health Act (1983) which will impact patient safety:

• Increase the amount of time patients can be detained. 
  The emergency legislation extends doctors’ holding power from 72 to 120 hours.
• For people detained in a place of safety under police powers under section 135 or 136, the time limit would be extended from 24 to 36 hours.
• Only one Doctor is now required to section a person. Previously it was two. They do not need to know the patient
• Removes the need for a SOAD to review medication.
• Mental Health Tribunal now conducts hearings by telephone, hospitals are not allowing solicitors to visit their clients.

https://www.nursingtimes.net/roles/mental-health-nurses/what-does-the-coronavirus-act-2020-mean-for-mental-health-nursing-24-04-2020/

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