Seni’s Law A campaign on mental health and the use of force

I am grateful to the constituents who have taken the time to contact me to share your views on the Mental Health (Use of Force) Bill, also known as Seni's Law. Those who have contacted me will be pleased to know the Second Reading of the Bill was passed by the House of Commons and it can now progress to its next stage of the legislative process.

Unfortunately, I was unable to be in the Chamber for the debate on this piece of legislation. However, I have followed its progress with interest. The Bill seeks to reform the oversight and management of the use of force relating to people in mental health units, and the use of body-worn cameras by police officers in mental health units. Both are very important aspects of mental health treatment that the Government is already looking at.

So the Government has promised in the Queen's Speech this year to look at reforming the Mental Health Act to make it fit for purpose and bring it up to date. The Prime Minister commissioned a review of the Act in October and the results will be delivered next year. I expect that review to address some of the key aspects of this Bill and bring about lasting change to our mental health system.