People with a mental disability face numerous barriers in access to justice and a fair trial. It is recognised that stigma attached to mental illness often leads to underestimation, under-diagnosis and undertreatment of mental disorders. A lack of knowledge of causes, symptoms and treatment options of mental disorders among the judiciary and a negative media portrayal of individuals with mental illness can result in prejudices and negative attitudes towards them and subsequently fuelling the vicious cycle of stigmatisation and discrimination. Mental disorders are not readily visible to untrained professionals.
This masterclass will present a novel approach in judiciary education, jointly led by psychiatrists and judges in low and middle income countries. It will explore the modern advancement in the management of mental disorder and upholding human rights for the most vulnerable section of society. The speakers will present a compelling case of collective learning as continuing professional education for both mental health professionals and legal professionals to facilitate access to justice. The masterclass will inform audiences of the relevant legal instruments available to support people with a disability and best practices.
This session aims to explore:
- How you can collaboratively work with judges and contribute in judiciary training
- Leadership skills for you when working collaboratively with the criminal justice system
- Lessons from a pilot project in Bangladesh to train judges about mental health issues and treatment effectiveness for offenders with mental health issues
- Information about international legal instruments and binding treaties to implement access to justice for persons with disabilities
Chair: Subodh Dave, Royal College of Psychiatrists, United Kingdom
Anis Ahmed, Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom
Carolyn Fyall, District Tribunal Judge and Training Lead; First-tier Tribunal Mental Health; Health, Education and Social Care Chamber, London, United Kingdom
Sharif Jaker, Bangladesh Judicial Service Commission, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Lade Smith, Royal College of Psychiatrists, London, United Kingdom
