As Mental Health Awareness Week gets underway, the Law Society of England and Wales is urging the UK government to formally consult with experts and those with lived experience to develop a code of practice for the Mental Health Act 2025.
The new act, which became law in December 2025 and will be rolled out over the next decade, aims to give more choice, dignity and respect to those accessing mental health care.
An updated Mental Health Act code of practice will give professionals, patients and their families clear guidance on how to use this new law.
Law Society president Mark Evans said: “The Mental Health Act 2025 is a vital step in helping people access justice whilst in treatment. The government now has the unique opportunity to give people more control over their lives through a clear and effective code of practice.
“Clear guidance is especially critical for children and young people. In the past, decisions were made by the nearest relative, which may not always be the most appropriate way. A well-designed code of practice will protect young people’s rights, give families and professionals clarity and reduce disagreements over care.
“We are ready to work with the government to develop guidance that makes the implementation of the law smooth and delivers real benefits for everyone.”
The Conveyancing Foundation has shared resources for conveyancers who would like support with mental health and wellbeing. In partnership with mental health charities LawCare, Agents Together and the Mindstep Foundation, the resources aim to combat high pressure, stressful working environments and support good mental health, wellbeing and responsible leadership.
“Conveyancing has always been considered a stressful profession, with tight deadlines, often heavy caseloads and emotional and frustrated clients to deal with,” the Conveyancing Foundation said.
“Managing work life balance is therefore more critical than ever for conveyancers and their support team.
“Law Care made some excellent suggestions in its article last week: taking time out during the day, consulting with others on their problems and concerns, creating a structure that manages the difficult times. The full article is a must read for all in the profession.
“Mental Health Awareness Week is all about recognising the strains of work, life and how we cope with the pressures of today, with work life balance being a necessity as opposed to a catch phrase. Achieving work life balance requires a concerted effort from both the leaders and the individuals within any organisation – it is very much a two-way street.
“The Conveyancing Foundation Excellence at Work Survey, due to be released during Wellbeing at Work Month in October, will be a great barometer for assessing how good conveyancing and property businesses are in looking after their people.”
New wellbeing toolkits and support materials are released throughout the year on the Conveyancing Foundation website.
