Evaluating service user community groups in forensic and neurodevelopmental units

Abstract

Introduction: Often service user involvement in forensic mental health settings can fail to address service users' views in a systematic way and is more likely to be designed around organisational priorities. Method: Community meetings in six forensic medium–secure units and three neurodevelopmental (ND) units were compared. Using framework analysis, the study evaluated practice, in particular how staff and service users interacted and the issues raised at meetings. Data was collected from interviews, questionnaires and minutes of the meetings. Results: On average, meetings were more frequent in ND than in forensic units. Difficulties were reported in resolving issues due to factors including shift patterns, staff who could make decisions being unavailable, and policy and budget constraints. Forensic unit groups tended to focus on information and ND groups on activities and the ward environment. Complaints were more likely to be raised in forensic units than in ND units. Discussion: This study provides an insight into community groups and offers an insight into the realities of user engagement in community meetings.