Mental Health Practitioner Role Evaluation

Overview

This evaluation report examines the implementation, utilisation, and impact of mental health practitioners (MHPs) within primary care networks (PCNs) across Dorset, aligned with the NHS Long Term Plan's objectives to enhance integrated mental health care. Introduced through the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) in 2021, MHPs aim to bridge primary care and specialist mental health services, alleviating GP workloads and improving patient access to mental health support.

The evaluation, conducted from June 2024 to March 2025, aimed to explore MHP activities, their financial value, and their perceived impact across stakeholders. Using a mixed-methods concurrent triangulation design, the study included: An analysis of MHP service utilisation data from six PCNs. A review of 3,080 activity logs from 18 MHPs. Semi-structured interviews with 19 MHPs, nine GPs, and six CMHT managers.

The MHP role significantly benefits Dorset’s primary care and mental health landscape, improving patient access, reducing GP burden, and contributing to financial efficiencies. Addressing sustainability challenges and operational improvements will be critical to maintaining and expanding these benefits.