The contribution of the Mental Health Commission in Ireland to the reform of mental health services

Purpose - This paper aims to describe the establishment and evolution of Ireland's Mental Health Commission including its functions, strategic objectives and the challenges encountered. Design/methodology/approach - This case study is based on an analysis of the outputs of the organisation to date, legislative reviews, and available evidence on the contributions of the organisation to the development of services. Findings - The organisation has a breadth of responsibilities. It has administered reviews of 9,896 involuntary admissions to inpatient units to date since its inception. It has regulatory and enforcement powers in terms of the licensing of inpatient mental health facilities in Ireland. It has issued numerous codes of practice and rules for the guidance of those working across services. It also has an independent Inspectorate arm that inspects the quality of mental health services annually. Research limitations/implications - There is a risk of potential bias given the authors work for the organisation, however, attempts have been made to support observations with evidence from external sources. Practical implications - The organisation's work has been seminal in enhancing the protection of the human rights of persons accessing mental health services. Regulatory measures have also led to changes in the behaviour of service providers, but it has proven to be more challenging to change attitudes and culture within services. Social implications - The Commission has contributed to the reform agenda by focusing greater attention on rights-based, participatory and recovery-oriented models of care provision. Originality/value - This paper documents the work of the Mental Health Commission and highlights the impact changes have had both for those using services and those providing them.