ABSTRACT
As the social workers’ concern about the use of compulsory powers became recognised, the research workers spent increasing time monitoring and observing practice, discussing each case with the social worker concerned, and observing discussions about new referrals between social workers. The referrals were predominantly allocated to qualified social workers; only 9 per cent were allocated to unqualified workers. Social workers expressed considerable anxiety about their work as Mental Welfare Officers (MWOs) in relation to compulsory admission under the Mental Health Act 1959 and the research workers were frequently asked for information about the law and 'good practice'. With some amendments the code of practice was adopted and used as a basis for the training and authorisation of MWOs; it offers an example of how a determined local authority can take effective steps to improve practice. This code of practice is designed to provide guidance to approved social workers in assessments of the need for compulsory admission.
