Approved Mental Health Practice
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 (Social Work England; Nursing & Midwifery Council; Health and Care Professions Council;) as either a Social Worker, a Mental Health and Learning Disabilities 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 intensive Level 7 course is for qualified Social Workers, Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Nurses, Occupational Therapists, and Psychologists who are currently working in mental health or related services.
If you successfully complete the course, you will be eligible to apply to a local authority for approval to practise as an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP). This is a specific role that is legally defined under the Mental Health Act 1983. AMHPs lead on organising statutory mental health assessments under this Act, contribute to assessments alongside medical colleagues, and are independently responsible for deciding whether to admit an individual for compulsory assessment or hospital treatment.
The course operates in partnership with local authorities including Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, West Sussex, Surrey, and Southampton, who support and fund students to attend the course. Applicants from other local authorities or NHS mental health trusts are also welcome. Independent applicants (i.e. students who are not funded by their employing body) are welcome to apply but at the point of application you must have a written agreement from a local authority or NHS trust agreeing to provide, support, and assess your practice placement.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- PGDip
- part time24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- full time6 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Course enquiries
- enquiries@brighton.ac.uk
- Phone
- 01273 644644