Helen Dewson

Helen Dewson is an Associate Professor in Mental Health Law and an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia. She is actively engaged in research at the intersection of law, medicine, and public policy, particularly concerning mental health legislation and its implications for individuals with autism and learning disabilities.

Her research focuses on the ethical and legal dimensions of mental health policy, especially as it pertains to vulnerable populations. She investigates how legislative changes—such as those proposed in the Mental Health Bill (2025)—may lead to unintended consequences for people with neurodevelopmental conditions. Her work emphasizes inclusive policymaking, drawing on professional and caregiver consensus to inform legal reform.

The trends in her recent publications highlight a consistent focus on interdisciplinary scholarship bridging law and clinical practice. Her articles analyze proposed legal changes through both medical and human rights lenses, advocating for equitable treatment and robust safeguards in mental health legislation.

• Member of professional consensus groups shaping mental health policy
• Contributor to high-impact journals in medical law and psychiatry

She collaborates with clinicians, legal experts, and advocacy groups across the UK, contributing to national discourse on mental health law reform. While no formal advising or grant activity is detailed in the available text, her publication record suggests significant influence in shaping evidence-based policy. Her work is frequently accessed and cited in academic and policy circles, reflecting its relevance and timeliness.