Course Overview

The course trains social workers for the role of Mental Health Officer (MHO), in which they can contribute positively to the care and treatment of those experiencing mental disorders by ensuring an approach recognising the impact of social and medical circumstances on their lives. 

The role of MHO is as defined in Section 32 of the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 and as qualified by the direction of the Scottish Ministers (Requirements for appointment as Mental Health Officers) Direction (January 2009).

In 2007 the Scottish Social Services Council published standards and practice competencies for MHO training. This stated that the certificate must be:

• It was provided by a university within a programme provider partnership.

• It was delivered at SCQF Level 11, which equates to the master level.

• Be approved by the SSSC as a specialist course.

The course has been externally evaluated and assessed as producing MHOs who are competent to practice from the perspective of the local authorities who employ the candidates on completion of the award. Between 85 and 90% of all candidates complete the course within 12 months. On completion of the programme, 100% of candidates are appointed as MHO by their local authority.

General Eligibility

1.

Be nominated by their employing local authority, supported by their local operating officer, and provided with appropriate learning opportunities.

2.

Hold a professional social work qualification recognised by SSSC. These include:

• BA (Hons) Social Work

• Diploma in Social Work (DipSW)

• Certificate of Qualification in Social Work (CQSW), together with its predecessor qualifications

• Certificate in Social Service (CSS)

If you trained abroad, a letter of comparability with the CQSW or a verification letter issued by SSSC (or another registering Council in the UK) would be required.

3.

Usually have a minimum of two years post-qualifying experience. You should be able to demonstrate that you've improved and extended the level of competence acquired when you qualified.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• IELTS 6.5 overall (no individual band less than 5.5)