Taught course

Approved Mental Health Practice

Institution
University of Brighton · School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Qualifications
PGDip

Entry requirements

Applicants must normally:

- have a first degree, or demonstrate ability to study at level 7

- hold a recognised professional qualification in social work, nursing, occupational therapy or psychology

- have current registration with the appropriate professional statutory body (NMC; HCPC; BPS) as either a social worker, a nurse, an occupational therapist or a psychologist

- be engaged in complex professional practice in mental health services for a minimum of 15 hours per week

- EITHER be nominated by a local authority or other employer who will facilitate relevant, required practice, supervision and assessment of practice to meet course assessment requirements; OR, if an independent practitioner, have written agreement before the start of the course of a local authority or health trust who will provide within their organisation the practice, supervision and assessment of practice by a suitably qualified and experienced person as agreed by the course team.

Months of entry

January

Course content

This level 7 course is for social workers, occupational therapists, nurses and psychologists who are working in the mental health services and looking for approval by a local authority to practise as an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP).

This is a specific, legally defined role under the Mental Health Act 1983 that qualifies you to assess whether there are grounds to detain mentally disordered individuals, a responsibility that used to be the preserve of social workers but that has since been opened up to other mental health professionals.

The course operates in close partnership with four local authorities: Brighton & Hove City Council, East Sussex County Council, West Sussex County Council and Surrey County Council. Applicants from other local authorities or NHS Mental Health Trusts are also welcome. If you are an independent (ie non-seconded) applicant, you must have a written agreement from a local authority or NHS trust saying that they will provide and assess your AMHP placement.

Since August 2012 AMHP training has been regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This course addresses sections one and two of the HCPC approval criteria for AMHPs and is an approved programme with the HCPC.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • PGDip
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    6 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Course enquiries
Email
connect@brighton.ac.uk
Phone
01273 644644