Developing a psychosocial competency framework for adult and older adult acute mental health inpatient care
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Authors
Wood, Lisa
Williams, Claire
Luxon, L. M.
Kumary, Ajvir
Roth, Anthony D.
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Issue Date
13/08/2025
Type
Journal article
Language
Keywords
Mental Health
Alternative Title
Abstract
Objectives
Acute mental health inpatient settings care for those with acute and complex mental health needs. This study aimed to develop a psychosocial competency framework for use by multidisciplinary professional practitioners working in adult and older adult acute mental health inpatient settings.
Methods
The competence framework was developed through an iterative developmental process. Initially, the relevant literature was reviewed to draft the framework. A multidisciplinary Expert Reference Group provided their expertise to refine and develop the framework and provide professional advice on areas with a weaker evidence base.
Results
A competency framework was produced and nine key areas of competency were developed; 'Basic knowledge of issues related to acute mental health inpatient care', 'Communication skills', 'Professional competences for all healthcare workers', 'Generic relationship competences', 'Assessment, formulation and planning', 'Structured care and intervention', 'Psychosocial interventions', 'Meta-competences', and 'Professional competences for organisations'.
Conclusions
This competency framework will enable stakeholders to understand which competences are needed for high-quality acute mental health inpatient care provision. It can be used to underpin training packages in this field. Our framework has been recommended as a best-practice resource in the NHS England Acute Inpatient Mental Health Care guidance for adults and older adults.
Description
Citation
Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice, 98, 553–569. https://doi.org/10.1111/papt.12575
Publisher
License
Journal
Psychology and Psychotherapy Theory Research and Practice
Volume
98
Issue
3