BASW Cymru Practice Workshop: Analysis and decision making in AMHP Practice in Wales.

Decision-making is central to the role of an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP), especially in Wales where the practice is shaped by both UK-wide legislation and devolved Welsh policies. AMHPs are expected to uphold human rights and ensure that any intervention is the least restrictive option. Their decisions protect individuals from unnecessary or inappropriate detention. AMHPs make decisions about whether someone should be detained under the Mental Health Act 1983. These decisions have serious implications for a person’s liberty, autonomy, and treatment. AMHPs provide an independent social perspective to the assessment process.

The session will be presented by Nicola Howard: Nicola is a highly experienced social worker, Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP), and educator with over two decades of practice in statutory mental health and social care services. She previously undertook the role as Co-director of the AMHP Programme at Swansea University, where she led postgraduate training and curriculum development for future AMHPs across Wales. Her frontline experience spans both adult and children’s services, with a particular focus on crisis intervention, neurodivergent assessments, and safeguarding. Nicola has worked extensively on Emergency Duty Teams, conducting out-of-hours mental health assessments and managing high-risk situations with professionalism and compassion. Nicola’s practice is grounded in trauma-informed, rights-based approaches, and she is a passionate advocate for ethical decision-making in mental health law. She co-founded Joining Dots, a specialist consultancy offering holistic assessments, training, and supervision for professionals working with neurodivergent individuals and families. She holds multiple postgraduate qualifications in social work, AMHP practice, and professional development, and is widely respected for her contributions to AMHP education, reflective supervision, and inclusive practice.