Publications

Wellbeing in Westminster: A survey of MPs' knowledge and experience of mental health issues
Our survey of MPs, published in April 2005, found that most MPs think that their job is the most stressful they have ever had.

The survey also found that 9% of MPs who responded had visited a doctor to seek help or treatment for a mental health problem. If that figure is constant across parliament it could mean that around 60 MPs have sought psychiatric help.

80 MPs responded to the survey, which asked them about their knowledge of and interest in mental health issues and legislation, and about their personal experience of mental health issues.

According to the report, 44% of MPs find their job 'very stressful', and a further 46% 'quite stressful' - 90% altogether. 62% said that compared to previous jobs they have held, their work as an MP is more stressful.

Click here to download Reporting Mental Illness

Cherie Booth QC gives annual Henry Hawkins lecture
Leading human rights lawyer Cherie Booth QC delivered Maca's fourth annual Henry Hawkins Lecture on 14 October 2004, on the topic 'Encouraging Social Inclusion in our Communities'. The wide-ranging lecture discussed how laws, organisations and individuals can work together to break down the discrimination which affects disabled people in general and people with mental health problems in particular. Ms Booth spoke to an audience made up of representatives of other charities, politicians and academics, as well as Maca service-users and staff.

Click here to download a full copy of the lecture

A Guide for Carers of People With Mental-Health Needs
This booklet is designed to help people who care for friends or relatives with mental-health problems to find the support and information they need. It includes sections on your rights as a carer, how to get a carer's assessment, the benefits you can claim, and a glossary of commonly-used mental-health terms.

Click here to download the carers' guide