The development of dual diagnosis link workers in a mental health trust: reflections from clinical practice

Delivering integrated treatment for dually diagnosed clients requires an effective whole team response, supported by good quality partnership working. This paper describes an approach to improving the delivery of these principles: the development and support of dual diagnosis link workers deployed in teams and wards across Avon and Wiltshire Partnership Mental Health (NHS) Trust.

The paper describes the role of link workers, provides examples of developmental practice, strategies to support the role, identifies barriers encountered and suggests solutions to address these.

The link worker model is raising awareness of good practice within teams and promoting improved partnership working. Solutions are being identified for the barriers that have been encountered.

This paper describes how a dual diagnosis link worker approach can be introduced and identifies mechanisms to support link workers in their role. It also outlines a framework to support implementation of key principles for working with people with a dual diagnosis.