Across the UK, mental health services are under increasing pressure. One role becoming more critical within this system is the Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP).
Local authorities, NHS trusts and community mental health teams are seeing growing demand for AMHP-qualified clinicians to support Mental Health Act assessments and crisis care.
What Is an AMHP?
An Approved Mental Health Professional is authorised to carry out duties under the Mental Health Act 1983.
AMHPs coordinate Mental Health Act assessments and determine whether an individual should be detained in hospital for assessment or treatment when necessary.
Professionals who become AMHPs often come from backgrounds such as:
- Social Work
- Mental Health Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Psychology
They must complete specialist postgraduate AMHP training before undertaking the role.
Rising Demand for Mental Health Services
Demand for mental health support across England has increased significantly.
NHS data shows around 7.3 million adults in England receive treatment for a mental health condition, equivalent to 15.7% of the adult population.
At the same time, referrals to mental health services increased by around 44% between 2016–17 and 2021–22, creating additional pressure across services.
As more people access crisis support, Mental Health Act assessments are becoming more frequent, increasing the need for AMHPs.
Mental Health Workforce Pressures
Workforce shortages are another key factor.
Some services report vacancy rates of close to 19%, meaning many teams are operating below required staffing levels.
AMHP roles can also be difficult to fill because they require:
- Significant mental health experience
- Specialist postgraduate training
- Legal responsibility under the Mental Health Act
This means the number of qualified professionals remains limited.
Supporting Mental Health Services
AMHPs play a vital role in coordinating Mental Health Act assessments and safeguarding patient rights.
At Hunter Gatherer Mental Health, we support NHS trusts and local authorities across the UK with the recruitment of experienced AMHP-qualified clinicians.
If your service needs support with AMHP locum cover or permanent recruitment, our specialist team is here to help.