What leadership qualities are required for Associate Psychological Practitioners in primary care networks?

The purpose of this study is to identify leadership skills required for Associate Psychological Practitioners (APPs) working within primary care networks (PCNs).

An online questionnaire about current leadership opportunities and skill set was sent to APPs and leadership staff (clinical leads, PCN managers and clinical supervisors). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with APPs and leadership staff and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Questionnaire and interview data were combined, and themes mapped onto three competency constructs (knowledge, skills and abilities and personal characteristics).

The subthemes that were considered important leadership skills for APPs to possess included: knowledge of policies and procedures, shared vision and goals in PCNs and the roles, teams and connections within PCNs; skills in communication and partnership working, organisation and independence and the ability to reflect, adapt and challenge others; and personal characteristics such as assertiveness, confidence, resilience, being able to act in a professional and calm manner and to be engaged within their team and supportive of colleagues.

Clinical implications to promote leadership skills and opportunities for APPs working within PCN settings include additional training in leadership skills, risk management and policies and procedures; increased team meetings to aid communication; and further research and evaluation to explore career progression for APPs.