Advance Statements
Advance statements are a powerful way of ensuring that people with mental health problems are listened to, even when they are unwell. Even so, we guess that only a small number of people who are treated for mental ill health are aware of them.
You may find it helpful to write an advance statement when you are well, stating how you would like to be treated if you become ill in the future. Anyone who makes decisions about your treatment, like doctors or a tribunal, should read your advance statement and consider your wishes.
An advance statement is not a guarantee that your wishes will be followed, but it is a guarantee that they will be taken into account. An advance statement should be witnessed and signed by a health or social care professional.
It is a good idea to review your advance statement every six or 12 months to make sure it is up to date.
The Commission has produced a set of resources to help people make advance statements, and to help staff work with people to encourage and support them to do so.
Easy read: Advance statements 'My views, my treatment' - Advance statement guidance booklet for individuals (2018 edition) Advance statements good practice guide for professionals (2024 edition) Advance statement poster Advance statement template Personal statement template Advance statement example 1 Advance statement example 2