The Place of Safety provides a space for the efficient, effective and dignified assessment for patients detained under Section 135 or 136 of the Mental Health Act. It is used when a police officer detains someone in a public place on a S136 of the Mental Health Act because they believe they are mentally disordered and may be a danger to themselves or others.
Detainees will be met at the Place of Safety by nursing staff who will triage and make a decision as to whether or not a full Mental Health Act assessment is appropriate. The nursing staff will also provide support and reassurance through this current crisis.
Once at the Place of Safety, we have the power to hold a person on a S136 for up to 24 hours, but we endeavour to complete the assessment within four hours.
The person on the S136 is then usually assessed by two section 12(2) approved psychiatrists and an Approved Mental Health Professional, where a decision is made as to what appropriate action or support the person needs.
