What Makes a Good CAMHS Primary Mental Health Worker?

Background: The role of primary mental health worker (PMHW) in CAMHS was established in 1995 although comparatively little research has explored the attributes required to successfully undertake this role. Method: Qualitative interviews with PMHWs and staff working in primary care were conducted and thematic analysis was performed. Results: In addition to clinical skills and mental health knowledge all respondents consistently emphasised the importance of inter‐personal attributes such as general accessibility, flexibility, and self‐motivation. Conclusions: Both professional competencies and inter‐personal skills are perceived as important characteristics for PMHWs. It therefore seems appropriate for these to be made more explicit in competency frameworks.