The relevant law in Northern Ireland is the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986. This is similar to the Mental Health Act in England and Wales, but there are some differences.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 allows for a different set of processes to be used to remove a person's freedoms when someone does not have mental capacity to consent to that removal. These processes are called the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).

When someone is detained under the Act, both they and their ‘nearest relative’ must be told about their rights. They must also be told what is happening and how this relates to the Act. This section explains the key roles to do with the Act, including ‘nearest relative’.

Learn about Safeguarding, how to keep yourself and others safe, and who to contact if you are concerned about someone who may be at risk.