We are aware of a high number of scam texts and emails about fines being sent (from 18 August 2026). We do not send direct payment links via text message or email. If you receive a message about a fine and are unsure whether it is genuine, please contact our call centre on 0800 4 FINES (0800 434 637) before making any payment. Read more about identifying scams.
If a patient believes their rights have been breached, or they’re not happy with any aspect of their compulsory assessment and treatment, they can seek the help of a district inspector for mental health. District inspectors are lawyers who are appointed to help patients get information about their treatment and make sure their rights under the Act are upheld.
Patients can ask the court to review their condition before a Compulsory Treatment Order is made.
A patient under the Mental Health Act has the right to be represented by a lawyer and may be able to get legal aid. Their lawyer will help them apply for legal aid.