The aims of this research project were to further understand Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs) and Best Interests Assessors’ (BIAs) views and feelings on their professional identity (in terms of their regulated profession) and the effect it has on their practice; and the experiences of people who have received services from AMHPs and BIAs, or those who work with them, and whether their experiences and perceptions differ across the professions; and whether BIAs intend to convert their status to AMCP and ways in which this has been influenced. A multimethod research approach was used, comprising a survey qualified and practising AMHPs; a survey of practising BIAs; focus groups of AMHPs and BIAs; interviews with people with experience of Mental Health Act assessments with AMHPs or ASWs. The study found that both the AMHP and BIA workforces are predominantly made up of social workers and predominantly employed by local authorities. Both professions, to varying degrees, believed that their specialist work was advanced, relational and values-based and for many it went beyond an extension of their primary qualification with enhanced legal literacy that was creative and nuanced. Overall, the majority of AMHPs and BIAs believed that social work had the greatest influence on the work. Generally, aspects of social justice and advocacy, as well as a high level of legal literacy, were clear indicators of the contribution of social work to both AMHP and BIA work. AMHPs and BIAs seem to experience very similar impacts on their health and wellbeing arising out of the challenges they experience. The main difference in this area was that AMHPs report finding their role more challenging than BIAs experience which is likely due to workload pressures and a lack of resources which is beyond their control.

This group is intended for Best Interest Assessors under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, students working towards qualifying and other professionals with practice interests in the Mental Capacity Act. This site is intended as an aid to develop practice knowledge by allowing discussion, peer support and the sharing of ideas and references, it is not a substitute for professional supervision or considered legal advice.

A best interests decision making e-learning course. This session explores ‘best interests’, what it means for disabled people and how best interest decisions are made for disabled people who lack capacity.

A deprivation of liberty safeguards e-learning course. This session explores the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) to help understand what they are, their aim and their purpose.

A brief overview of deprivation of liberty safeguards, looking at what deprivation of liberty means, its practical implications, and how it may affect family members or my friends.

The CQC report on a case where a deprivation of liberty was successfully
challenged.

List of organisations approved to provide training for people carrying out the role of best interests assessors (BIAs).