“Containing the Network”: Referrers’ Experiences of the Community Forensic CAMHS Consultation and Liaison Model

Abstract

Consultation between mental health professionals and other professionals working with young people can bring together multiple agencies to ensure young people are appropriately supported and referred to specialist care where needed. The aim of this research is to explore the consultation and liaison model of support for young people who are at high risk of engaging in harmful behaviors (e.g., harm to self and others), through the experiences of professionals liaising with specialist Community Forensic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (F:CAMHS). Interviews with referring professionals (N = 34, from 34 services) were analyzed thematically, themes focused on referrer experiences; impact on the network; and impact on young people and their parents/carers. The combination of forensic mental health expertise in risk assessment and management, with the ability to provide overarching and indirect support to the network is fundamental to the model. Community F:CAMHS’ capacity to manage anxiety in the professional network is likely helped by the one-step-removed position afforded in the consultative role. Adopting a position of authority led to clearer, more co-ordinated and more robust risk management plans. Consideration could be given to adopting the model when working with referrals involving multiple agencies and high levels of anxiety within the network.