<\/a><\/p>\r\n These are also referred to as advance statements, advance decisions or advance agreements: they are an expression of the wishes of someone who experiences mental illness about the type of care and treatment they would like to be provided if they become unwell. They can contain information about how they would like their family involved in their care and are useful because: \u2022 making an advance directive can help to ensure that the person gets the treatment of their choice if they have a further episode of mental illness. \u2022 they can also use an advance directive to state who they want to manage your benefits or direct payments and other practical matters if they become ill. However Advanced Directives are often not legally binding and can be overruled.<\/p>\r\n Factsheets Advance Statements \u2013 Planning For The Future<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/carers-hub\/planning-for-future-care-and-support\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Books<\/strong> Atkinson, J. M., Advance Directives in Mental Health: Theory, Practice and Ethics<\/i>, 2007, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, London. Moncrief, J., Bentall, R. & Sanders, P., A Straight Talking Introduction to Psychiatric Drugs<\/i>, 2009, PCCS Books, Ross-on-Wye.<\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong> http:\/\/www.leedspft.nhs.uk\/service_users\/Advancestatements<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Advocacy is an important process which enables people to say what they want, obtain their rights and gain the services that they need. All people are entitled to be in control of their lives but sometimes they may find themselves in a position where their ability to exercise choice or represent their own interests is limited. In these circumstances an advocate can help to make sure that your views are heard, respected and acted upon. Since April 2009 all patients who are detained under the Mental Health Act have a legal right to an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA). IMHAs can help patients to find out about their rights and how to exercise them. Hospital managers should be able to provide information about their local IMHA service. The Care Act, which came into force in April 2015 for NHS England, also provides for advocacy for any eligible person undergoing a social care assessment or review. This includes carers, as well as people who are cared for. To be eligible you must have \u2018substantial difficulty\u2019 in understanding and engaging with the process and not have anyone who can help you to take part in the process fully, for example a trusted relative or friend. If you meet these criteria you may be eligible for an independent advocate, paid for by the local authority. This advocacy should be available at any point in the process, and your eligibility can be reviewed at any time.<\/p>\r\n Factsheet <\/strong>Advocacy<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/living-with-mental-illness\/treatment-and-support\/advocacy\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/social-care-and-support-guide\/pages\/advocacy-services.aspx<\/a> http:\/\/www.voiceability.org\/support-for-you\/independent-mental-health-advocacy-imha<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n The benefits system is complicated and the regulations change frequently, so most families will need expert help and advice if they are to receive their full entitlements. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is the government department responsible for benefits. As well as mental health organisations, Citizens Advice Bureau welfare rights workers should be able to help. Some local authorities also have teams who are there to help you understand what you may be entitled to, and to navigate the benefits system. Make sure you start the process as early as you can as applications usually start from the date of your phone call to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This is likely to generate a long application form or forms. Completing them can take time and patience; it\u2019s useful to create a folder containing copies of all the necessary things you may need. This might include: \u2022 medical professionals contact details, such as Consultant, GP and Mental Health Nurse \u2022 your relative\/friend\u2019s National Insurance number \u2022 any letters sent to you or your relative\/friend from the DWP\/Job Chttp:\/\/ubd.spectrumdevelopment.org.uk\/understandingbipolar.pdfentre \u2022 any reference numbers given to you by the DWP\/Job Centre Always keep a copy of what you have sent and a log of all communications. If you are worried about missing a deadline for sending information back it is best to phone them in advance to notify them of this. Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) staff often know very little about mental health problems so it is important for each answer to be given carefully and with sufficient detail. Bear in mind that whilst you may want to focus on the positives, and care plans often do the same, the Department for Work and Pensions need to know about the \u2018worst day scenario\u2019. If in doubt seek help from an organisation such as the Citizens Advice Bureau or mental health charities\u2019 advice services.<\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.citizensadvice.org.uk\/benefits\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/benefits<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/living-with-mental-illness\/money-issues-benefits-employment\/employment-support-allowance<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/rights-restrictions\/money-benefits-and-employment\/personal-independence-payment-pip\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n The following website asks you some questions and they can then guide you to information that may be helpful:<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.carersuk.org\/upfront\/?utm_source=Carers%20UK&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=6450698_Nov_Eng_Prof&utm_content=upfront&dm_i=74C,3U9E2,1PU211,DU9GQ,1<\/a><\/p>\r\n The following are some of the main benefits that are available in 2015\/2016:<\/strong> a) Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)<\/strong> Currently, everyone who is unable to work because of sickness or disability can claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). Up-to-date information and contact details can be found on this<\/p>\r\n website:<\/strong> https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/employment-support-allowance\/how-to-claim<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong> https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/living-with-mental-illness\/money-issues-benefits-employment\/employment-support-allowance<\/a> b) <\/strong><\/p>\r\n Personal Independence Payment<\/strong><\/p>\r\n Up-to-date information and contact details can be found on this website: https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/pip\/how-to-claim<\/a><\/p>\r\n The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has now replaced the Disability Living Allowance (DLA). People already on DLA are gradually being \u2018migrated\u2019 to PIP. When this will happen depends on which area of the country you live in. PIP is a benefit which is paid to help with costs that may be incurred due to ill health or disability, and which is paid in addition to other benefits. Currently, there are two components to this payment, \u2018daily living\u2019 and \u2018mobility\u2019, which can be paid at the standard or enhanced rate. Your entitlement is based on the amount of points you score on both components, so it is important to explain clearly how the mental health condition affects everyday tasks and activities. For some claims, a medical assessment may be required. This payment is not means tested, taxable, or dependent on the National Insurance contributions made by the claimant. The application form is very long and your relative would probably benefit from getting help with its completion as replies should focus on a \u2018worst day scenario\u2019 which can be hard to consider when you may be focussing on what your relative can do (rather than what they can\u2019t do) to aid their recovery.<\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n www.rethink.org\/living-with-mental-illness\/money-issues-benefits-employment\/personal-independence-payment<\/a><\/p>\r\n c) Carer\u2019s Allowance<\/strong> Up-to-date information and contact details can be found on this website: https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/carers-allowance-unit<\/a> https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/carers-allowance<\/a><\/p>\r\n If you spend at least 35 hours a week looking after someone who receives certain disability or illness-related benefits you may be entitled to Carer\u2019s Allowance. There is a limit on what you are allowed to earn if you receive this benefit. Carer\u2019s Allowance cannot normally be paid in addition to a state pension or other overlapping benefit such as contributions based Job Seekers Allowance; you usually get whichever one is the higher amount. Qualifying for Carer\u2019s Allowance may entitle you to a \u2018carer\u2019s premium\u2019 when certain income based benefits such as Income Support are calculated. \u2018Carer\u2019s premium\u2019 may also entitle you to a discount on Council Tax and an increase in Housing Benefit, but you would have to contact your Local Authority about this. It\u2019s important to remember that if you are paid this allowance, some of the benefits you or the person you care for may be reduced as a result.<\/p>\r\n d) Carer\u2019s Credit<\/strong> Up-to-date information and contact details can be found on this<\/p>\r\n Website:<\/strong> https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/carers-credit<\/a><\/p>\r\n Carer\u2019s who are not entitled to receive Carer\u2019s Allowance because they earn more than the limit may apply for Carer\u2019s Credit. Carer\u2019s Credit is a National Insurance credit that helps with gaps in your National Insurance record<\/p>\r\n e) Universal Credit<\/strong> Up-to-date information and contact details can be found on this<\/p>\r\n Website:<\/strong> https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/universal-credit<\/a><\/p>\r\n In some areas, many different benefits, including Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), are being replaced by a single \u2018Universal Credit\u2019 benefit. This is being rolled out in phases across the country. As universal credit replaces many different benefits and covers lots of different circumstances, it is very complex and you may need to seek advice before applying.<\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/living-with-mental-illness\/money-issues-benefits-employment\/universal-credit<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Personal Biographies:<\/u> Henry\u2019s Demons: Living with Schizophrenia, a Father and Son’s Story. Patrick Cockburn and Henry Cockburn. 2011. Simon & Schuster UK. The Father I Had. Martin Townsend. 2008. Corgi. Accounts but more fictionalised<\/u> Shock of the Fall. Nathan Filer. 2013. HarperCollins. Illustrated Mum. Jacqueline Wilson. 2000. Corgi Yearling, London. <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites <\/strong> Bipolar UK have information leaflets, amongst other useful information, on Bipolar Disorder on their<\/p>\r\n Website<\/strong>: http:\/\/www.bipolaruk.org\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n They have produced an information leaflet for family and friends:<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.bipolaruk.org\/FAQs\/leaflet-information-for-family-and-friends<\/a><\/p>\r\n A report from the British Psychological Society entitled \u2018Understanding Bipolar Disorder\u2019.<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.lancaster.ac.uk\/reacttoolkit\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/understandingbipolar.pdf<\/a><\/p>\r\n Books<\/strong> Coping with Bipolar Disorder: A CBT-Informed Guide to Living with Manic Depression. Jones, Hayward and Lam. 2009. Oneworld Publications. <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Taking a break<\/u> It\u2019s very important that as well as caring for your relative, you also take care of yourself. Helping or caring for someone with a mental illness can be exhausting and can have a negative impact on your health and wellbeing too. Sometimes you or your relative may need a break. This is sometimes known as respite care. There are different ways this can work. Respite care could include: \u00b7 You go on holiday, whilst someone else cares for your relative \u00b7 Your relative goes on holiday or stays in a residential home for a short time \u00b7 Your relative receives overnight care, so you can get some sleep There are also different ways to arrange respite care. You can \u00b7 try to arrange some respite informally, for example with family and friends \u00b7 you can ask your local authority to help arrange and pay for respite care \u00b7 you can ask one of the charities who offer help with respite care As someone who helps or cares for someone, you are entitled under the Care Act 2014 to a carer\u2019s assessment, which looks at what needs you may have to protect and enhance your health and wellbeing (please see the section on Legal Information for more details.) This assessment should include if you need respite care. If you\u2019re not eligible for help to have a break from your local authority, there are charities who may be able to help. You can find a list of some of these charities here https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/carers-family-friends\/what-you-need-to-know\/respite\/useful-contacts<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/carers-hub\/respite-care\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.carers.org\/help-directory\/respite-care<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.carersuk.org\/help-and-advice\/health\/looking-after-your-health\/taking-a-break<\/a><\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.ageuk.org.uk\/home-and-care\/advice-for-carers\/having-a-break\/<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Some people using mental health services or their relative may wish to make a complaint about the service they received or perhaps because help was refused when they asked for it. You have the right to make a complaint about care or treatment provided by the NHS or your local authority. You can do this by using the NHS and local authority complaints procedure, usually accessed through the Customer Care department. You may also approach an advocate or the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALs). This is a service that can be found in every NHS Trust, and provides information, advice and support to relatives and service users. PALs would be able to guide you through the NHS complaints procedure. If a person\u2019s mental health problems make it difficult for them to complain, then as a relative or friend you can make the complaint on their behalf. The organisation you are complaining about must agree that you are a suitable representative.<\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/chq\/pages\/1082.aspx?CategoryID=68<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n This toolkit makes reference to problems relatives sometimes experience accessing information about their relative from mental health professionals. This is often due to mental health professionals being worried about breaking patient confidentiality when your relative may not give permission to share information with you. There is plenty of information the care team can share with you without breaking confidentiality, in order to support you in your caring role. Relatives may also fear that their own confidences might be broken, with information you share about your relative \u2018in confidence\u2019 being leaked to your relative and affecting your relationship with them. There is further information about confidentiality in Module 9 \u2013 Understanding Mental Health Services. The resources listed below give useful tips on how to address information sharing difficulties and provide a more detailed review of what rights carers have to access information in practice.<\/p>\r\n Factsheets <\/strong> Confidentiality Confidentiality and Information Sharing \u2013 For Carers, Friends and Relatives<\/p>\r\n Factsheet:<\/strong> https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/carers-hub\/confidentiality-for-family-friends\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.mindwisenv.org\/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=167&Itemid=134<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rcpsych.ac.uk\/mental-health\/translations\/welsh\/partners-in-care-campaign<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n A person with mental health problems can fall into debt. They may not be able to cope with bills or paperwork. They may not be able to control their spending. They could risk eviction if they don\u2019t pay their rent\/mortgage or miss out on income by not claiming any benefits they may be entitled to. They could be taken to the County Court to settle any dispute about money owed and how to repay it. There are various different ways in which their relative could help them in relation to their finances. Mechanisms to formally involve a relative are: Someone can be \u2018appointed\u2019 to deal with another person\u2019s benefits, including making applications to the Department of Work and Pensions, if symptoms of mental illness prevent the claimant from doing so. The DWP can provide a leaflet called \u2018Help with getting benefits for people with a disability or illness\u2019 which starts this process. A \u2018third party mandate\u2019 can be useful as it enables a person who is unable to deal with his\/her affairs all the time to delegate responsibility for payment of bills when necessary. They can provide authorisation for someone else to have access to their bank account and to sign cheques on their behalf. Someone who understands what it means can give a \u2018Lasting Power of Attorney\u2019 to another person which provides them with the legal authority to manage some or all of their financial affairs. A Lasting Power of Attorney can be provided when someone is \u2018well\u2019 but comes into effect when the person loses the ability to manage his or her financial affairs. If the person who \u2018lacks capacity\u2019 has a significant amount of money or property, and there is no other person who is willing or able to assist, it is possible to apply to the Court of Protection for the appointment of a Deputy. The Rethink national information and advice service staff can support family members through this process.<\/p>\r\n Factsheets <\/strong> Options for dealing with debt<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/rights-restrictions\/money-benefits-and-employment\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Going into hospital money matters<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/carers-hub\/going-into-hospital\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/rights-restrictions\/money-benefits-and-employment\/money-matters-cancelling-contracts\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites <\/strong> Managing budgets and debt<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/rights-restrictions\/money-benefits-and-employment\/<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Direct payments are local council payments for people who have been assessed as needing help from social services, and who would like to arrange and pay for their own care and support services. Until recently, direct payments have been available for disabled people and relatives, but not for people with mental health problems. However, this has changed, and people with mental health problems, and their relatives, are now being encouraged to consider applying for direct payments. Personal health budgets are also being introduced in some areas \u2013 where health and social care budgets will be \u2018pooled\u2019 and service users able to directly purchase both social care and elements of their health care too.<\/p>\r\n Factsheets <\/strong> Direct Payments<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/rights-restrictions\/money-benefits-and-employment\/personal-independence-payment-pip\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.carersuk.org\/help-and-advice\/practical-support\/getting-care-and-support\/direct-payments<\/a> http:\/\/www.nidirect.gov.uk\/direct-payments-for-carers<\/a><\/p>\r\n How to apply for direct payments:<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/apply-direct-payments<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n IF YOU ARE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER, CALL THE POLICE ON 999 Domestic abuse and violence can affect people from all walks of life. People with psychosis or bipolar can be victims or perpetrators of violence and abuse. Relatives and carers can also be perpetrators or victims of abuse. Abuse does not have to include violent acts. To find support for someone experiencing domestic abuse or for perpetrators go to<\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.mind.org.uk\/information-support\/guides-to-support-and-services\/abuse\/domestic-violence\/ <\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n It is important to know about severe mental illness and driving. If your relative is diagnosed with any of the conditions below and they intend to drive they must tell the DVLA. If they do not, they will not be able to drive legally and their insurance may not be valid. This could mean that if they have an accident and have not declared their illness, the insurance company may not pay up. The conditions include: \u00b7 Severe uncontrolled anxiety. \u00b7 Severe depression with marked psychomotor retardation and\/or psychosis. \u00b7 Bipolar disorders to include hypomania or mania. \u00b7 Acute psychotic disorder. \u00b7 Schizophrenia or other chronic psychosis. \u00b7 Alcohol and\/or drug misuse or dependency. Check the website for a up-to-date list of conditions as they may change:<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency<\/a><\/p>\r\n The DVLA does not need to be notified of a diagnosis of mild or moderate anxiety or depression, which is controlled and does not affect memory or concentration, or cause agitation, behavioural disturbance or suicidal thoughts. For information on how to contact the DVLA and provide details of your doctor or specialists please follow the link below. What your doctor or specialist says will influence the DVLA\u2019s decision on whether your relative will be allowed to keep their licence. Very occasionally, DVLA may ask you to undergo a medical examination, which will be free, although you would have to pay any travelling expenses yourself. This process is called a medical enquiry.<\/p>\r\n Factsheets <\/strong> Driving and Mental Illness<\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.rethink.org\/advice-and-information\/rights-restrictions\/rights-and-restrictions\/driving-and-mental-illness\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong><\/p>\r\n https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/driving\/disability-health-condition<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\n Books<\/strong> Promoting Recovery in Early Psychosis: A Practice Manual. French, P., Smith, J., Shiers, D., Reed, M. & Rayne, M. (Ed.). 2010. WileyBlackwell, London.<\/i> Staying Well After Psychosis: A Cognitive Interpersonal Approach to Recovery and Relapse Prevention. Gumley, A. & Schwannauer, M. 2006. Wiley & Sons Ltd., Chichester<\/i> The Compassionate Mind Guide to Recovering from Psychosis. Lowens, I. 2010. Robinson Publishing.<\/i> Enabling Recovery: The Principles and Practice of Rehabilitation Psychiatry. Roberts, G., Davenport, S., Holloway, F. & Tattan, T. (eds). 2006. Gaskell, London.<\/i> Accepting Voices. Romme, M. & Escher, S. (eds). 1993. MIND.<\/i><\/p>\r\n Factsheets <\/strong> British Columbia Schizophrenia Society How to Help People Recovering from Psychosis: What Family and Friends Need to Know<\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.bcss.org\/documents\/HTH\/pdf\/HowToHelpRecoveryfromPsychosis.pdf<\/a> A brief factsheet with tips and what to look for following a return from hospitalisation.<\/p>\r\n Websites<\/strong> Intervoice – The international community for hearing voices \u2013 a forum for discussion, stories from service users, hearing voices and creativity, support groups, etc. with links to national networks and initiatives.<\/p>\r\n http:\/\/www.intervoiceonline.org\/<\/a> WRAP – Mary Ellen Copeland\u2019s Mental Health Recovery and WRAP\u00ae method of promoting recovery and wellness in service users. Her methods were developed for depression but are applicable to a wide variety of conditions. http:\/\/mentalhealthrecovery.com\/<\/a> <\/i> <\/a><\/p>\r\nAdvance Directives<\/h4>\r\n
Advocacy<\/h4>\r\n
Benefits<\/h4>\r\n
Biographies\/Accounts<\/h4>\r\n
Bipolar Disorder<\/h4>\r\n
Carer Breaks<\/h4>\r\n
Complaints<\/h4>\r\n
Confidentiality<\/h4>\r\n
Debt<\/h4>\r\n
Direct Payments<\/h4>\r\n
Domestic Abuse and Violence<\/h4>\r\n
DVLA (Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Agency)<\/h4>\r\n
The Future <\/i><\/h4>\r\n