Abstract
Aims and Method The perceptions and expectations by referrers of assessments performed by a medium secure unit were examined in order to ascertain areas for possible improvement. All referrals to two teams at the North West Thames Regional Secure Unit were monitored over a 6-month period. A self-report questionnaire was sent to each referrer, in cases where an assessment and forensic report had been completed. Results Assessments and forensic reports were completed (and questionnaires sent to referrers) in 63% of total referrals (32 out of 51). The response rate to the questionnaire was 81% (26 out of 32). Many referrers wanted the assessments and report to be completed in 2 weeks. Most referrers were satisfied with the quality of the report received and the majority were happy with the risk assessment. Clinical Implications Referrers want forensic assessments to be of a high quality and to be performed quickly. Recommendations for service development are suggested.
Highlights
Following the recommendations of the Butler (Home Office & Department of Health and Social Security, 1975) and Reed (Department of Health & Home Office, 1992) reports, there has been a rapid development and expansion of forensic psychiatry, with an increase in the number of medium secure beds, and subsequently, there has been a rise in the number of requests for forensic psychiatric assessments
Our survey was conducted at the North West Thames regional forensic service, which covers a population of approximately 3.5 million
In 13 cases, the referrer requested a patient be admitted to the medium secure unit
Summary
The perceptions and expectations by referrers of assessments performed by a medium secure unit were examined in order to ascertain areas for possible improvement. All referrals to two teams at the North West Thames Regional Secure Unit were monitored over a 6-month period. A self-report questionnaire was sent to each referrer, in cases where an assessment and forensic report had been completed
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