Implementing Connecting People in Adult Mental Health Social Work Practice: A Thematic Analysis of Postgraduate Student Assessed Placement Reports

Many mental health social workers employed in NHS mental health trusts in England undertake generic care co-ordination roles. Their identity as social workers is often overlooked, diminishing their potential to lead the implementation of social interventions to improve social outcomes for people with mental health problems. This study explores the extent to which mental health social work students were able to implement an evidence-informed social intervention—Connecting People—during a mental health practice learning placement. A thematic analysis of sixteen placement reports was conducted and evidence was found of high fidelity to the practice model alongside areas for improvement. Additionally, barriers and facilitators to the implementation of Connecting People in practice were noted. The findings demonstrated that it was possible to implement the model in mental health services, though the support of supervisors, teams and employers was required. The use of social approaches in mental health services may provide a leadership opportunity for mental health social workers which is distinct from their statutory functions, potentially assisting their retention in the profession.