BASW England survey: Section 117 aftercare

BASW England would like to gain a better understanding of members' knowledge and experience of S117 aftercare

Section 117 aftercare was introduced to the Mental Health Act in 1983 to provide patients with a statutory right to aftercare following discharge from the Act. 

While this provision places a duty on health and social care systems, the Reforming the Mental Health Act White Paper highlighted that there has been a lack of clarity over who is responsible for providing and funding the care and in which locality. 

This results in delays in providing care to potentially highly vulnerable people. Many areas have local policies which support a 50/50 split but this isn’t a legal requirement - which means that in many areas, health and social care end up negotiating funding arrangements on a case-by-case basis.

Help shape national guidance

BASW England’s Mental Health thematic group are currently working alongside other stakeholders to support the work of the Mental Health Social Work Lead in the Department of Health and Social Care, to update national guidance so that there is greater clarity on how budgets and responsibilities should be shared for Section 117 aftercare. 

BASW England would like to gain a better understanding of members' knowledge and experience of S117 aftercare, to inform this work and encourages members to complete this short survey.

The survey should take approximately 5 minutes to complete.