Assessment of parents by Approved Social Workers under the Mental Health Act 1983

Abstract

Approved Social Workers from seven local authorities were interviewed about Mental Health Act assessments involving parents. Half of all the children in these families were under eight years old, and in 40% of cases there was concern about the children's safety. Those children perceived as at most risk or in need of alternative care arrangements tended to be children of lone parents, ethnic minority parents, parents who misused drugs or alcohol, or parents who were themselves as as children.

The authors conclude that joint approaches with child care colleagues are essential in assessing the risks and needs of children identified through mental health crisis in a parent.