Information for people subject to community treatment orders (CTOs)
Medication
If you have been made subject to a community treatment order (CTO) under the Mental Health Act, you may be required to take medication prescribed for you by your doctor. There are rules governing whether you must take it and safeguards to ensure you are treated properly.
These are sometimes referred to as the “consent to treatment rules” and apply only to treatment for your mental, and not your physical, health. There are certain situations when these rules do not apply – such as if your life is at risk or you are a danger to yourself or others.
When you are first given medication for your mental illness, your doctor should:
- Explain what the medication is for.
- Tell you about any side-effects.
- Ask for your consent.
What happens next?
After one month, your doctor must have the agreement of a second opinion appointed doctor (Soad) for your treatment to continue. You may continue to take the medication until this doctor has visited you and given their opinion, however.
Can I change my mind?
Yes, if you have agreed to continue taking medication, you can change your mind at any time. If you wish to do so, it is best to talk to your doctor before you stop taking more medication.
How can I find out more?
We have produced a leaflet explaining in greater detail your rights if you are on a CTO.
Electro-convulsive therapy (ECT)
One of the treatments your doctor could recommend is ECT but this can only be given with your consent. We have produced another leaflet detailing your rights regarding consent to ECT. This leaflet is available in both standard and easy read formats at the link below.
