Learning and Development

Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP)

Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs) are approved by the social services authority to carry out certain duties under the Mental Health Act. They have a unique position within statutory mental health settings, as they are responsible for assessing an individual with a mental disorder while considering the need to apply for formal admission to a psychiatric hospital.  AMHPs have the autonomy to make their own decisions, drawing on all of the information available on an individual, not just the medical and clinical factors. This includes their social and cultural circumstances, the possible risks and protective factors, as well as their knowledge of mental illness and the legal process, to try to reach a just and equitable conclusion, which will balance the rights of the patient with their possible need for protection and treatment.

AMHPs need to be able to think on their feet and remain calm and level headed while working with people in acute mental distress at a time of crisis. If you think this could be you, our social workers have an opportunity to apply via our qualifications panel for funding and support to study for the AMHP postgraduate certificate each year.

To find out more about our opportunities for Social Workers within mental health, please e-mail Jane Hitchings, Service Manager Adult Services, at jane.hitchings@pembrokeshire.gov.uk