Approved Mental Health Professional Decision Making

The symposium examines the role of the Approved Mental Health Professional in England, UK. In England and Wales the Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA) (amended 2007) is the primary piece of legislation for the assessment, treatment and detention of individuals deemed to be mentally disordered. The task of considering, coordinating assessments and making the application for detention rests with the Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP). The authors papers present empirical research that examines the AMHP role in relation to professional perspectives, decision making, detention, the role of the nearest relative and principles of empowerment.