Section 12 refresher course (Nov 27, 2025)

Section 12 refresher course is organized by Maudsley Learning (ML) and will be held on Nov 27, 2025.

Description
At the end of the Section 12 refresher course, you will have sufficient knowledge of the law (the Mental Health Act 1983, the MHA Code of Practice, the Mental Capacity Act and more). This will enable you to make medical recommendations in support of an application for detention, under Part 2 of the MHA.

Engaging and interactive presentations are delivered by clinical and legal experts in mental health law. The course uses practical exercises, case discussions and legal updates to ensure delegates are fully equipped to take on the roles of section 12 approved doctors.

Learning objectives:
After taking this course, you will have:

• A better understanding of the criteria for detention under Part 2 of MHA 1983, specifically Children; those with Learning Disabilities, Older Persons and Mentally Disordered Offenders under Part 3 of the Act.
• An understanding of the legal guidance contained within the MHA Code of Practice relevant to the role and responsibilities of s12(2) doctors and other professionals when undertaking MHA assessments.
• An ability to identify the presence of mental disorder and the severity of mental disorder, and to determine whether the disorder is of a nature and/or degree which would warrant compulsory detention.
• An understanding of key elements of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 'v' MHA and other related legislation - for example the Human Rights Act 1998 Act and Children Acts.
• An understanding of current case law and its impact on practice and an ability to manage and take responsibility for making decisions in complex cases without the need to refer to supervision in each individual case.
• An enhanced awareness of the impact of compulsory orders on service users and carers with appreciation of the balance between risk management and a person's right to self-determination and liberty.
• An ability to keep appropriate records, with awareness of the legal requirements for completing statutory forms relevant to the initial detention of a patient under s 2, 3 and 4.

Areas covered:
The course covers:

• Criteria for detention under the MHA
• Mental Health Law: the legal framework
• Roles & responsibilities of section 12 doctors
• Role of the AMHP in the MHA Assessment
• Service user and carer experience
• Mental Health Act documentation.