The AMHP service considers whether people need to be detained under the Mental Health Act, or if alternative arrangements can be made. It is delivered in partnership between Devon County Council and Devon Partnership Trust.
The AMHP Service works to:
- ensure decisions are legally compliant
- protect individuals’ rights and dignity
- work in partnership with health, social care and emergency services
- explore alternatives to hospital admission wherever possible
The service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, working closely with partners including NHS services, emergency services, and social care teams.
Who can contact the AMHP Service
The service is primarily for professionals, including:
- emergency services (police, ambulance)
- NHS staff and mental health teams
- GPs and primary care
- social care professionals
- voluntary and community sector partners
Members of the public should usually access support through NHS services such as 111.
New single contact number for the AMHP service
From 28 July 2026, there is a single phone number for contacting contact the AMHP Service.
01392 674952 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)
This replaces the previous arrangement where separate daytime and out-of-hours numbers were used.
Please save this number, delete any old contact numbers, and share this information with relevant colleagues.
When to contact the AMHP Service
The AMHP Service should be contacted by professionals when:
- a person’s mental health has deteriorated and there are concerns about risk of harm to themselves or others
- the possibility of detention under the MHA needs to be considered
- advice is needed about whether to make a referral or next steps
In many cases, this will involve complex or urgent situations where other support options have been considered.
When not to contact the AMHP Service
The AMHP service is not for general mental health advice or support.
If someone needs general help, please direct them to:
- NHS 111 (mental health option)
- GP or community mental health services
- other appropriate local support services
This helps ensure the AMHP service can prioritise the most urgent cases.
What does an AMHP do?
Our AMHPs are experienced, specially trained professionals who work across health and social care. They consider the possible need for detention under the MHA and making decisions about the best way to support someone in crisis.
Their role includes:
- responding to MHA referrals
- coordinating assessments
- deciding whether hospital admission is necessary
- exploring alternatives to hospital admission where possible
- ensuring the law is applied correctly and people’s rights are upheld
AMHPs bring an independent, social care perspective to decision-making, alongside medical professionals.
How the AMHP Service works
When you contact the AMHP Service your your referral will be considered by an AMHP. That process of consideration may involve working with doctors, family members and other professionals.
The aim is always to ensure people receive the right support at the right time, using the least restrictive option wherever possible.