Alison Smales has a Masters in Social Work and Applied Social Studies and 20 years’ experience in mental health and social work law, policy, practice and management in various London local authorities and mental health teams.
She has extensive knowledge and understanding of the Mental Health Act and its application in practice and since 2021, has worked as an Independent Social Worker, Expert Witness, and Practice Educator, compiling court reports at the instruction of solicitors, and supervising students and apprentices undertaking social work placements in mental health teams. Alison works as a Visiting Social Work Lecturer and trainer in the Mental Health Act, the Care Act, Safeguarding Adults, and the Mental Capacity Act, as well as devising training for police recruits about the Mental Health Act and the AMHP role.
She is a Mental Health and Adult Social Care Inspector for the Care Quality Commission (CQC), regulating and inspecting mental health inpatient and community services. Alison is passionate about learning and development, particularly within practice education, and is a skilled communicator who can add value, knowledge, and expertise to any organisation.
