Written specifically for Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs), this book brings together key elements of the legislation, Code of Practice, Memorandum, Government Circulars and relevant case law and policy. It also discusses the role of an AMHP in the revised Mental Health Act, as well as the Key Competencies. This fully-revised fourth edition analyses updated legislation, case law and policy, while recent changes and cases covered include: - The revised English Code of Practice to the Mental Health Act - The revised Reference Guide to the Mental Health Act - A number of cases concerning the nearest relative - Clarification on personal accountability of the AMHP - Revisions to the tribunal report requirements in England - The impact of the Cheshire West case decisions in the Supreme Court An essential guide for practising AMHPs or those currently in training, this book contains extensive appendices which cover Mental Health Act Assessments, Practice Directions (first tier tribunal) and the AMHP Regulations for both England and Wales. It also includes checklists, case studies and exercises to aid practice and learning.

Author Biography

Robert Brown is a social worker and a Director of Edge Training and Consultancy Ltd. He provides refresher training for AMHPs and helps to train Section 12 Approved Doctors and Approved Clinicians in South West England and Wales. He provides consultation and supervision services to Cornwall, Guernsey, Hampshire, Jersey and Reading. Rob has published widely in the field of mental health and mental capacity law; co-authoring The Mental Health Capacity Act 2005: a Guide to Practice as well as Mental Health Law in England and Wales. He was a Mental Health Act Commissioner from 1992-2010. Prior to that, Rob worked as a Mental Health Welfare Officer and then an Approved Social Worker with Hampshire County Council. He has been a lecturer at Southampton University, Stirling University and Croydon College. Rob is a Visiting Fellow at Bournemouth University and was a finalist in the British Social Work Awards 2013, Lifetime Achievement category.