Section 12(2) of the Mental Health Act 1983 requires that, in those cases where two medical recommendations for the compulsory admission of a mentally disordered person to hospital, or for reception into guardianship, are required, one of the two must be made by a practitioner approved for the purposes of that section by the Secretary of State. Approval is also required for practitioners providing reports or giving evidence under Part III of the Act.
Winterhead Ltd has the statutory responsibility under the delegated authority of the Secretary of State to approve suitable practitioners to act as Section 12(2) doctor in the England South Region. Approval is not automatic.
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Section 12(2) Instructions - White Paper
The process for approval can take up to eight weeks. Attendance at an approved course does not grant approval. You will be notified of the outcome of your application in writing. Approval is not automatic.
All approved practitioners are required to apply for re-approval every 5 years. Providing you have informed us of any change in work or contact details, the Approvals Team will email an invitation to renew 9 months before your expiry date with the application pack.
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