Advanced Social Work Practice in Adult Mental Health

This briefing paper provides context for Advanced Social Work Practice in the area of adult mental health in Ireland and advocates for focused effort to address this issue by providing concrete suggestions for consideration and action. This briefing paper highlights the following in particular:

1. The role of advanced social work practice needs to be formally acknowledged across health and social care settings.
2. There needs to be opportunities for social workers in adult mental health services to formally engage in the development of advanced practice level capabilities.
3. Systems-level investment is required to ensure – consistent high standards, and quality, safe and effective services in advanced social work practice.
4. Think Social Work, Think Advanced Practice, for better continuity of care, improved service user outcomes and a holistic approach to societal health and wellbeing.