SWVMHI is committed to providing an effective rights protection and advocacy system for clients.  

SWVMHI employees will work cooperatively with clients and their family members, the staff of the Office of Human Rights, the Local Human Rights Committee (LHRC), and the State Human Rights Committee (SHRC) to enhance the nature  and quality of services provided to clients.  

What Is a Local Human Rights Committee?

A Local Human Rights Committee (LHRC) is comprised of volunteers who represent mental health, mental retardation and substance abuse services, professional groups and consumer groups.  The committee's responsibility is to perform certain functions under the state Human Rights Regulations.  The State Human Rights Committee appoints the LHRC members for a term of three years after consultation with the Commissioner for the state Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.

The LHRC plays a vital role by:  1) conducting fact finding hearings and making recommendations for resolution of complaints not resolved formally or informally by staff; 2) reviewing and making recommendations concerning policies, procedures, practices, treatment plans and restrictive programming; 3) reviewing and making recommendations concerning requests for variance to the Human Rights Regulations; and 4) performing other oversight functions according to the Local Human Rights Committee By-laws.

The SWVMHI Local Human Rights Committee's 2009 schedule of meetings is posted below: 

Southwestern Virginia Mental Health Institute

Local Human Rights Committee

Tentative 2009 Meeting Schedule

Meeting Minutes

LHRC Membership

We are always interested in hearing from individuals who have an interest in serving as members.  If you would like to find out more information about the LHRC, or for inquires regarding committee membership and vacancies, contact Dr. Cynthia McClaskey, Director (276) 783-1201 or Deborah Jones, Human Rights Advocate (276) 783-0828.  A personal interview is required of all applicants for committee membership, and final decisions regarding appointments are made by the State Human Rights Committee.

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