Content

This is a 60 credit course set at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 11, with modules occurring sequentially: Mental Wellbeing and Mental Disorder, Adults with Incapacity and Mental Disorder - Offenders, Young People and Families.

You will gain the knowledge, skills and practice experience to exercise the civil powers and duties of the MHO within the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003, and Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 and guidance pertaining to mentally disordered offenders and children, young people and families. You will take full account of the interface with related legislation and guidance within the relevant policy and procedural contexts, and critically analyse and evaluate your learning and practice with individuals, families, carers and significant others when undertaking your role.

An important element of the course is a 3 day teaching block, based around a day of simulated practice, whereby professional actors, advised and supported by a mental health user group, play out roles. This enables students to practise acquired skills, with support from practitioners and staff.

Entry Requirements

The course is specifically designed for social work practitioners with at least 2 years post-qualifying experience who are nominated by their local authority employers to train as Mental Health Officers. You will remain in employment throughout the course.