Section 117 “aftercare” funding imposes a duty on the NHS and local authorities to provide aftercare services to certain patients who have been detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.

The duty to provide these services is non-means tested and continues until both the NHS and local authority have agreed that the patient no longer requires any services. As such, if any part of the original care plan remains in place then the person still has aftercare needs and funding should remain available. It is surprising how often the funding is withdrawn incorrectly.