The Advocacy People
Young Persons Independent Mental Health Advocacy
What is Young Persons Independent Mental Health Advocacy?
Young Persons Independent Mental Health Advocacy (Y-IMHA) is a specialist advocacy service for children and young people who are subject to the Mental Health Act 1983 or who are informal patients in a mental health setting. A Young Persons Independent Mental Health Advocate helps young people understand their rights, their treatment, and how to have their voice heard in decisions about their care.
How can Young Persons Independent Mental Health Advocacy help me?
Being admitted to a mental health unit as a young person can be frightening and confusing. A Y-IMHA advocate is there specifically for you, they will listen to you without judgement, explain what is happening and why, help you raise any concerns about your treatment, and make sure that the adults responsible for your care actually hear what you want to say. They are completely independent from the hospital or mental health service and are focused entirely on supporting you.
How can I get Young Persons Independent Mental Health Advocacy support?
If you are a young person in a mental health setting and would like to speak to an advocate, you can ask any member of staff to refer you, or contact us directly. If you are a professional working with a young person who might benefit from Y-IMHA support, please get in touch to make a referral.