Section 1 — Principles to inform decisions
Extent: E+W+S+N.I.
Snapshot: 2026-08-24
Reproduced from legislation.gov.uk (Crown Copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0). Amendments made after 2026-08-24 may not be reflected — always check the official text .
In section 118 of the Mental Health Act 1983 (duty to prepare code of practice, including principles which the person making it thinks should inform decisions under the Act) for subsection (2B) substitute— (2B) The statement of principles must, in particular, include the principles, and address the matters, specified in the table. Principle Matters to be addressed Choice and autonomy involvement of patients in decision-making, and consideration of the views of carers and other interested parties Least restriction minimising restrictions on liberty so far as consistent with patient wellbeing and safety and public safety Therapeutic benefit effectiveness and appropriateness of treatment The person as an individual treating patients with dignity and respect and considering their attributes and past experiences