Open Society Mental Health Initiative launches new website www.osmhi.org
MHI's new website is unique in the field of mental disability. In addition to highlighting best practices in community-based care, the site includes a comprehensive Resource Directory that provides information on a variety of topics related to mental health, intellectual disability and human rights. The Resource Directory is an innovative information clearinghouse intended for a wide-ranging audience including civil society organizations and policy-makers.
A network program of the Open Society Institute, MHI aims to ensure that people with mental disabilities are able to live as equal citizens in the community and to participate in society with full respect for their human rights. The focus of MHI's activities is to end the unjustified and inappropriate institutionalization of people with mental disabilities by advocating for the closure of institutions and for the development of community-based alternatives.
With this focus in mind, the Resource Directory highlights deinstitutionalization and community living. Visitors to www.osmhi.org can find international instruments and other publications available for download, as well as links to organizations that serve as models for best practices in community-based care and advocacy.
The site features regularly updated information on important disability and human rights-related news including new publications and upcoming events.