Restraint Reduction Network
3 January 2023
The RRN are delighted to congratulate our Trustee Aji Lewis on receiving a MBE in the King’s New Year Honours for services to mental health.
Aji worked tirelessly to bring about the Mental Health (Use of Force) Act, also known as Seni’s Law, after her son Seni who died as a result of police restraint.
The Mental Health (Use of Force) Act, which provides statutory guidance for NHS organisations in England and police forces in England and Wales with regard to inpatient mental health units, gained royal assent in 2018 and was launched by Aji along with Gillian Keegan MP and Steve Reed MP in December 2021.
Ben Higgins, RRN CEO, said:
“Aji showed incredible determination and commitment bringing about the Mental Health (Use of Force) Act and working to ensure that the Act would reduce inequalities and improve the experiences of people accessing care and support in mental health units. The Act strives ensure that care supports people’s human rights, and includes vital points regarding training, reporting and recording, and leadership which will contribute to changing and improving cultures within services.
“As a member of the RRN Board of Trustees, Aji provides support, counsel and an unwavering commitment to reduce restrictive practices. We are proud to work with her and delighted to see her hard work being recognised.”
Aji is featured on ‘In the Name Of’ on BBC Radio 4 today, 3 January 2023: BBC Radio 4 – In the Name Of