Mental health services
Highland Mental Health Officer (MHO) Service
A mental health officer (MHO) is a registered social worker who has undergone specialist training and education to work with people with a mental disorder.
MHOs are accountable to the local authority that employs them, but their assessments are independent. MHOs must comply with the National Standards for Mental Health Officer Services.
MHOs have assessment, supervision, review and report writing duties under three main pieces of legislation:
- Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Scotland Act 2003
- Criminal Procedures (Scotland) Act 1995
- Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000
Who can make a referral for an MHO?
A GP or psychiatrist will refer to an MHO when they are considering use of legislation to help a patient receive the right care and treatment.
A lawyer can request the help of an MHO to provide a report when an application is being made for Guardianship (under the Adults with Incapacity Act).
There are no charges for Mental Health Officer services.