This conference focuses on recognising and responding to deterioration in mental health settings, and looks ahead to the implementation of Martha’s Rule in mental health which is now established in the acute sector and currently being piloted in mental health.
“Martha’s Rule began being introduced at 143 phase 1 pilot sites within NHS acute trusts across England. Following positive results from the first year, phase 2 of the programme commenced in April 2025, expanding Martha’s Rule to all remaining sites that provide adult and/or paediatric acute inpatient services. As part of phase 2, the programme is also supporting the testing of Martha’s Rule in a small number of maternity and neonatal units, emergency departments, community hospitals and mental health settings.”
NHS England 2025
“There is no shadow of a doubt that Martha’s Rule is having a transformative impact on the way hospitals are able to work with patients and families to address deterioration or concerns about care.”
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS National Medical Director 4th September 2025
“The early data suggests that Martha’s Rule isn’t being triggered inappropriately or overused. Were it to be implemented nationally, it would greatly improve care, help change the culture and save lives”
Merope Mills and Paul Laity, Martha’s parents 17th December 2024
This conference brings together leading experts at the forefront of recognising and responding to deterioration in mental health, and learning from implementation of Martha’s Rule. Throughout the day, there will be interactive sessions, small breakout groups, and collaborative exercises, providing a dynamic learning experience. The conference will explore implementation of Martha's Rule across mental health wards and in the community and reflect on the recognition of both physical deterioration in people with mental health conditions, and deteriorating mental health including the role of early intervention and averting crisis. A legal update will also be provided.
This conference will enable you to:
Network with colleagues who are working to improve the recognition and management of deterioration in mental health
Learn from national implementation of Martha’s Rule in a Mental Health Setting
Empower loved ones: reflect on the lived experience of a carer
Learn about the practicalities of Martha’s Rule in the NHS
Change culture and practice to ensure people with mental health conditions are listened to
Understand the legal framework and ethical considerations surrounding Martha’s Rule to ensure compliance
Develop effective communication skills to articulate Martha’s Rule to people and families
Understand why physical deterioration can be missed in people with a mental health diagnosis
Ensure early recognition of deterioration
Recognise and avert mental health crisis
Implement best practices for creating a culture within your organisation to embrace Martha’s Rule
Apply interactive case studies to enhance practical understanding
This conference supports CPD professional development and acts as revalidation evidence (CPD subject to peer group approval)
