The introduction of the Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) was informed
by research indicating that Approved Social Workers (ASW); the professional group
previously charged with undertaking statutory duties experienced, high levels of
stress and burnout (Evans et al. 2005); were decreasing in numbers (Huxley et al.,
2005); and were difficult to recruit (Audit Commission, 2008).
It was hoped that opening the role to other healthcare professionals with a view to
increasing numbers would offer a remedy. Currently social workers, nurses and
occupational therapists are represented in the AMHP population (General Social
Care Council 2012). This study explored the prevalence of stress and burnout
among AMHPs and examined whether there are differences between the
professional groups that administer the role