This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
A louder voice for mental health in general election
Despite having the same right to vote, mental health patients remain one of the most disenfranchised groups. In the 2010 general election, the turnout was only 14 per cent, believed to be the consequence of unsupportive information concerning mental health patients eligibility to register to vote.
Professor Simon Wessely, president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: "Mental health has never been higher on the political agenda. But while much progress has been made in improving access to treatment and tackling the stigma around mental health, it is unacceptable that mental health patients are one of our most politically disenfranchised groups."
The new guidance will be disseminated to all Mental Health Trusts and NHS medical directors. It will provide information to those necessary on who is eligible to vote, the best method of registration and how they can cast their vote most effectively.
Wessely continued: "It is unacceptable that nine out of ten of those who did not register to vote in 2010 were unaware either that they could even vote, or indeed how to go about the registration process. I am therefore delighted that this new guidance is being sent to all Mental Health Trusts to increase the knowledge on voting rights amongst mental health professionals and empower patients to exercise their democratic rights and get their voices heard."
Mark Winstanley, CEO of Rethink Mental Illness, said: "Many people in inpatient care don’t even realise they’re eligible to vote because there is so little information or encouragement available to help them. We urge them [Mental Health Trusts] to act on this guidance, by supporting and empowering the people they care for to exercise their fundamental right to vote."
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