An Oxfordshire charity has said there is "still work to be done" following the announcement of a new Mental Health Bill.

The Mental Health Bill was read out in Parliament this week and is set to overhaul the "outdated" Mental Health Act 1983. 

The Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA) is the main piece of legislation that covers the assessment, treatment and rights of people with a mental health disorder.

This act provides a legal framework to authorise the detention and compulsory treatment of people who have a mental health disorder and are considered at risk of harm to themselves or others.

However, an independent review conducted by Professor Sir Simon Wessely in 2018 identified that the current MHA is "out of step" with a modern-day mental health service and is in "significant need of reform".

Oxfordshire Mind told the Oxford Mail it "welcomes" the government's introduction of the new Bill as a a "significant step toward a more progressive and supportive mental health system".

READ MORE: Banbury: Baby suffered head injury after pram hit by train

"This announcement holds substantial promise for the 50,000 people who face detainment under mental health legislation each year, moving us closer to compassionate and dignified care," said a spokesperson for Oxfordshire Mind. 

"For people in Oxfordshire, this Bill means the prospect of better access to care that aligns more closely with their individual needs, especially during times of crisis.

"The removal of police and prison cells as 'places of safety' is crucial.

The Bill was read out in Parliament this week (Image: GOV.UK) "We know that people experiencing mental health crises benefit most from support in environments designed for their wellbeing, rather than settings that can feel punitive or distressing."

Currently, individuals experiencing severe mental illness can be placed in police cells, and the law automatically gives a patient’s nearest relative - rather than the person of their choosing such as a partner - a say in decisions about their care.

Additionally, black people are over three times more likely to be detained under the act, while those with a learning disability and autistic people are also found to be inappropriately sectioned.

The government says the new Mental Health Bill will give patients sectioned under the Mental Health Act more dignity and say over their care and will address the significant changes in attitudes towards mental illness .

However, Oxfordshire Mind added that there is "still work to be done".

"Systemic issues like racial disparities in how mental health laws are applied remain a significant concern, both nationally and locally," said a spokesperson for the branch. 

"Addressing these inequalities will be essential if we’re to achieve the equitable system that Oxfordshire residents deserve.

READ MORE: Bicester: Calls for crackdown on drivers blocking roundabout

"In addition, to fully tackle the mental health emergency, this Bill must be matched by sustained investment in mental health services to ensure the reforms are effective and enduring.

"The recent announcement of £26 million for mental health crisis centres in last weeks budget is intended to ease the strain on A&E, but let’s be clear: it’s not enough.

"At Oxfordshire Mind, we are committed to advocating for a system that is fair and accessible for all.

"We’ll continue to amplify the voices of those impacted by these laws and work alongside partners, clinicians, and local communities to support meaningful change."