Assessing organisational core values in a medium secure forensic unit

Abstract

This article discusses a survey aimed at identifying staff views on the core values in place at a medium secure forensic service unit, which provides specialist healthcare services for people with mental health problems who are offenders or have a potential to offend. The unit provides multi-modal treatments including pharmacological, psychological, occupational and social interventions to improve people’s mental health problems, and reduce their likelihood of recidivism.A questionnaire was used to gather staff members’ views. Content analysis allowed four core values to be identified: patient-centred care, keeping people safe, not judging and developing staff. The current findings shared some similarities to more generic core values often found in physical healthcare systems, but also offered some unique ideas specifically linked to values-based practice in forensic mental health that have the ability to influence behaviour and decision making. Staff also highlighted the need to invest in themselves as a resource through training, development and reflective practice.