Key issues addressed in this module relate to the formation of mental health policy, access to services, stigma and discrimination, human rights, advocacy and agency and the relationship between poverty, exclusion and mental health. The module provides an introduction to key areas of social policy relating to mental health and mental health nursing practice. The content specifically highlights the impact of social and environmental factors on health and well-being with a focus on issues relating to social exclusion, disparity, discrimination, oppression and stigma. The module also explores the social construction of mental health from a critical perspective, examining its influence on the treatment of both individuals and groups within society. The shift to a promotion of a rights based approach is explored in a contemporary context. Groups explored include the homeless community, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+ communities, migrant, asylum seekers and refugee communities, The Traveller Community, those within the prison system, child and adolescent services, and lower socio-economic groups. Key concepts such as anti-discrimination, equality, equity, empowerment, advocacy, participation, representation, co-production, autonomy and rights will be prioritized.