Self-funder support

Section 117 Mental Health Act (1983) aftercare

You are eligible for section 117 aftercare if you have been detained in hospital under:

• section 3 (for treatment)
• section 37 (hospital order)
• section 47 or 48 (transfer from prison)
• section 45A (hospital direction)

You also qualify if:

• you are discharged onto a Community Treatment Order (CTO)
• you are a restricted patient on a conditional discharge

Restricted patients are those who are subject to the special restrictions set out in section 41 of the Mental Health Act 1983, after being discharged from hospital. Only restricted patients can be conditionally discharged. These are often referred to as 37/41 restrictions.

Under normal circumstances a self-funder would fund their own care. However, if you are a self-funder but subject to section 117, the Integrated Care Board (ICB) and local authority will fund care that:

• reduces the risk of relapse of your mental health condition
• meets needs related to your mental health problems

Section 117 may not cover all costs if you have both physical and mental health needs. A top-up may be required for physical health needs.

The ICB and council must provide or arrange aftercare services until we are satisfied you no longer need them.

Section 117 and NHS Continuing Healthcare

If you have ongoing needs not related to your mental health condition, these may not be covered by section 117.

Separate physical health needs, like those from a stroke, may trigger NHS Continuing Healthcare, but only for those needs.

Last updated 28 November 2025