Exploring AMHP decision making during Mental Health Act Assessments
Research type
Research Study
Full title
How do Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs) Make Decisions During Mental Health Act Assessments?
IRAS ID
166722
Contact name
Charlotte A Scott
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leeds
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
This project is a qualitative research study exploring how Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs)make decisions within the framework of an assessment under the statute of the Mental Health Act (MHA 1983). AMHPs work within a clear statutory framework, with accompanying Code of Practice, and operate within both local and national policies which detail how, and in what circumstances assessments ought to be undertaken. These decisions are clearly framed within statute, and amendments in 2007 led to the implementation of a set of ‘Guiding Principles’ which should underpin all decision making under the Act. Alongside legislative changes to the role of the AMHP, research and reports highlight the pressures placed on these practitioners via increased workload, resource issues and a reducing workforce. The Care Quality Commission report a year on year increase in use of the MHA. This research explores how AMHPs’ make decisions within this current context and if and how contextual factors effect these judgments.
The research is a case study design and has two stages to the data collection. Firstly, observations of the AMHP's practice whilst they undertake Mental Health Act assessments will take place. Secondly the Chief Investigator will conduct semi structured interviews with these AMHP's and also the individuals who have been assessed under the Act.
REC name
Social Care REC
REC reference
15/IEC08/0024
Date of REC Opinion
22 May 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion