“We work closely together with the goal of making a positive difference to people’s lives”
From opera singer to qualified mental health social worker, we’ve been following Ben’s journey on our mental health social work programme.
Ben is working as a mental health social worker in the Cheshire West specialist mental health social care team. He’s currently applying for Approved Mental Health Professional Training (AMHP).
We caught up with him to reflect on his training, the value of social workers and how his role is going two years after joining our programme.
“Working as a mental health social worker in the Cheshire West specialist mental health team, there’s no such thing as a typical week – it changes all the time. From check-in calls or in-person reviews, to leaping into action when needed to keep someone safe – it’s hugely varied, and that’s what keeps it interesting.
Working as a team
We’re lucky to work in the same office as the NHS Community Mental Health Team. Strong relationships with these teams really helps with collaboration. We work closely with other professionals, supporting each other and working towards the same goal of trying to make a positive difference to people’s lives.
Because people’s needs can be unpredictable, we have to respond flexibly, keeping their best interests at the core of what we do and advocating for them when they need it.
Everybody wants what’s best for the person we’re working with, and my role as a social worker is making sure everyone keeps that at the forefront.
It’s important to have a good team and good managers so you’re supported in difficult situations to make the right decisions. Social work is full on and can be really stressful, and that team cohesion really helps.
Developing as a social worker
Looking ahead, I’m applying for AMHP (Approved Mental Health Professional) training at the moment.
AMHPs are responsible for assessing whether a person needs to be hospitalised under the Mental Health Act, and upholding their rights. I’ve been interested in this role from the beginning of my social work training.
I would be on the AMHP rota whilst still being a mental health social worker. I love jumping in and having to figure out what to do immediately – it’s an efficient way to work!
The more time I spend with people, the clearer it becomes that support needs vary hugely, and being detained under the Mental Health Act isn’t necessarily the right option. With Mental Health Act reforms on the way, this nuance is more important than ever.
Being part of that decision-making process matters to me – weighing up rights, listening properly, and making sure people get the support they really need – that’s why I want to take this next step into AMHP training.
The value of social work
Being a mental health social worker is a great role and you feel useful not just to the person you’re supporting but to their family and wider support network too. I did a carer’s assessment the other week where the carer said it was just nice to talk and be listened to, and sometimes that’s what it’s all about.
I love meeting people and hearing all about their lives, and I love the unpredictability of mental health social work. It’s fulfilling in a completely different way than I expected – and it still feels a lot more useful than opera singing!”
More on Ben’s story: Meet Ben when he first joined Think Ahead