The competency framework for mental health practitioners in primary care settings

BACKGROUND: The current Mental Health Practitioner (MHP) workforce within NHS primary care is without a competency framework to guide job planning, interviews and service provision. AIMS: This paper aims to present an inclusive level-based framework for MHPs in primary care. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The competency framework is based on previous frameworks and the results of service evaluation projects. Research into other existing competency frameworks allowed for the expansion of the identified competencies to ensure a thorough and complete framework was produced. The document was circulated to stakeholders and sense checked with colleagues working in primary care mental health service delivery. RESULTS: The framework provided has an explicit focus on seven key features: (1) knowledge for primary care-based MHPs, (2) core relational skills, (3) core clinical skills, (4) personal characteristics and values, (5) leadership and working with teams, (6) self-care and support and (7) competencies for primary care services supporting MHPs. DISCUSSION: Consideration of the competencies presented can help develop job descriptions, interview content and service provision requirements for MHPs across a variety of primary care settings. CONCLUSION: Following this paper further evaluation as to acceptability and implementation of this framework within primary care settings may be a beneficial undertaking.