Section 12 Introductory Course (Oct 16-17, 2025)

Section 12 Introductory Course is organized by Maudsley Learning (ML) and will be held from Oct 16 - 17, 2025.

Description:
This is a two-day online course suitable for doctors (psychiatrists, GPs, and forensic medical examiners) who are applying for Section 12 (2) approval. Specifically, it’s designed for those who are applying for the first time.

If you are seeking to refresh your Section 12 status, please book the Section 12 refresher course here. If you are seeking Approved Clinician status for the first time, or to refresh your Approved Clinician status, please book one of our Approved Clinician courses here.

At the end of this two-day course, medical practitioners will have sufficient knowledge of the Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA), the MHA Code of Practice, and other relevant legislation (including the Mental Capacity Act) to enable them to make medical recommendations in support of an application for detention under Part 2 of the MHA.

This is an online blended learning course that combines eLearning modules with live interactive sessions. The eLearning modules are sent in advance and should be completed by end of the first day of the course. The live interactive sessions are delivered on the second day. The sessions are led by clinical and legal experts in mental health law, as well as AMHPs, service users, carers, and specialists in Child and Adolescent Forensic Mental Health. The course uses interactive quizzes, case discussions, talks, small-group break-out sessions, and legal updates to ensure delegates are fully equipped to take on the role of Section 12 doctors.

Learning objectives:

• Comprehend the provisions outlined in Part 2 of the Mental Health Act (MHA) that pertain to the initial detention of a patient under sections 2, 3, and 4.
• Articulate the role of a Section 12 (2) doctor and other relevant personnel in conducting Mental Health Act assessments.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the criteria for detention under Part 2 of the MHA.
• Explain the guidance provided in the Code of Practice concerning the role and responsibilities of a Section 12 (2) doctor during a Mental Health Act assessment.
• Apply knowledge of the potential impact of assessments on patients and their caregivers to shape the approach to an assessment.
• Effectively complete statutory forms in accordance with legal requirements

The course covers:

• Criteria for Detention under the MHA
• Human Rights and the experience of detention for patients and carers
• Mental Health Law: The Legal Framework
• Roles & Responsibilities of s12 Doctors
• Role of the AMHP in the MHA Assessment
• Mental Health Act Documentation