Review of the quality of Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA) provision across England that was commissioned by the Department of Health. A team of independent researchers including four academics and nine co-researchers with experience of using mental health services undertook the study, which lasted eighteen months from 2010. Using different methods, the experiences and viewpoints of those with experience of IMHA, advocacy services, and health and social care professionals were explored in-depth. The main aim of this study was to look at how IMHA services are providing help to patients under the 2007 Mental Health Act (MH Act), what makes for a good IMHA service and what factors influence the quality of service provided. It should be of value to mental health service users, their families, IMHA commissioners and providers, and mental health services.
