A 3-day training course and accreditation route for anyone wanting the Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) module of the Certificate in Independent Advocacy awarded by City & Guilds. 

At the end of the programme you will have developed a good understanding of the role and will have developed a framework for the individual professional portfolio required for the National Advocacy qualification. You can then proceed to complete your accreditation through our fast-track route.

The National Mental Health Development Unit (NMHDU) and Voice have developed a unique foundation programme for advocates who want to work as an IMHA and specialise in working with children and young people. The programme will raise awareness of the IMHA role and how IMHAs will interface with other mental health staff particularly on sensitive topics such as information exchange, the management of complaints, IMHAs presence at decision making meetings and challenges and opportunities which may be made to services to secure patients rights.

“Information explained very competently, interesting and creative, an excellent course” IMHA

Who the course is for

The programme is open to practicing advocates who have experience of either working with children and young people or in the IMHA role. You will need to be working in the IMHA role in order to complete the accreditation.

From April 2009 IMHA service have provided an additional safeguard for patients who are subject to the Act. IMHAs are specialist advocates who will be trained specifically to work within the framework of the Act to meet the needs of patients.

“Dynamic and motivational, man she knows her stuff!” IMHA

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course participants will be able to:

• Summarise how mental health legislation affects IMHA qualifying children and young people
• Explain how to engage with professionals in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
• Describe how to respond to requests for IMHA support for children and young people
• Show good practice in providing IMHA to children and young people
• Demonstrate the ability to work safely and use safeguarding systems to keep young people safe

Course information

Three-days, comprehensive training materials provided.

Also recommended

Certificate in Independent Advocacy.

Click below to download the course leaflet.