27 September 2007
Despite the deep and repeated concerns raised by service users and charities the Department of Health did little to address the likely impact of the new Mental Health Act on black and minority ethnic communities. The Race Equality Impact Assessment was hurried and seemed largely tokenistic. As a result we face the possibility that community treatment orders will be used disproportionately with people from minority backgrounds - engendering even more fear and distrust.
When individuals from black and minority ethnic communities reach services, often in crisis and in need of vital help, services are often insensitive, ineffective and sometimes damaging. A concrete response is needed from the Department of Health to start delivering services which respond at the right time and in the right place – otherwise injustice and unnecessary suffering will continue.
Andrew McCulloch
Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation
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