Mental Health Practitioner (MHP)

Role Description

Mental Health Practitioners (MHPs) are sometimes referred to as a First Contact Mental Health Practitioner. MHPs are experienced professionals who support either diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health concerns.

There are a range of roles operating at Agenda for Change bands 5-8a which are fully embedded within the Primary Care Network (PCN). These roles are employed and provided by the PCNs local Community Mental Health Services provider. 50% of funding is provided by the mental health provider and 50% by the PCN ( reimbursable via the ARRS ) with the MHP wholly deployed to the PCN.

What can a Mental Health Practitioner offer to patients in a Primary Care setting?

Mental Health Practitioners (MHPs) can support population health management through providing a combined consultation, advice, triage, and liaison function.

MHPs can address the potential range of biopsychosocial needs of patients with mental health problems as part of a multi-disciplinary team in primary care. This benefits patients with:

Integrated patient pathways
Access to specialist mental health support
Reduced waiting times
Prevention of referral into secondary care
Positive patient experience

Registrable Qualification

A Mental Health Practitioner may be any registered clinical role operating at Agenda for Change Band 5 or above including, but not limited to:

Registered Mental Health Nurse
Community Psychiatric Nurses
Clinical Psychologist
Mental Health Occupational Therapist or Social Worker
Other clinical registered role, as agreed between the Primary Care Network and Community Mental Health Service provider

Regulatory Body

Relevant regulatory body e.g. -

Nursing & Midwifery Health Council (NMC)
Health Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Supervision Requirements

Named clinical point of contact for day-to-day case discussion.
Regular supervision provided through local Community Mental Health Service (usually employer) provider with robust clinical governance structures to maintain quality and safety.

What can the Training Hub offer you?

Access to online courses and workshops on various topics
Tools and resources for improving communication and professional skills
Best practices and guidelines
Networking opportunities with peers and other healthcare professionals
Continued education and professional development opportunities
Access to the latest research and information

Useful Resources

NHSE Integrating MH Therapy into Primary Care

Five Year Forward View for Mental Health

Guidance on co-locating mental health therapists in primary care

Health and Wellbeing Resources