This report examines the extent to which pathways into and through secure mental health services can be improved through the different security levels and ensure a better flow between prison and secure services. It is based on a review of current secure service provision carried out by the Centre and commissioned by the National Mental Health Development Unit.
It finds that secure mental health services vary widely across the country in terms of who they admit and what support they provide. Most patients spend longer than a year in secure hospitals, with a lack of community support for those who could be discharged a common cause of bed blocking.
Pathways to Unlocking Secure Mental Health Care also finds that little evidence is available about the long-term outcomes secure services achieve for their patients.
The report makes 15 recommendations to make secure services more efficient and better value for money.
Audience: local commissioners, criminal justice agencies.
Free to download below.
