Solicitors' body urges overhaul of mental health consent for older teenagers

The Law Society said 17-year-olds essentially have the same rights as seven-year-olds if they resist detention in mental health facilities in that if their parents consent, that is all the law requires. Stock image

Teenagers on the cusp of adulthood need greater rights when it comes to mental health care, the Law Society has said.

The solicitors' body said 17-year-olds essentially have the same rights as seven-year-olds if they resist detention in mental health facilities in that if their parents consent, that is all the law requires.