Suicide in custody

Abstract

Suicide in prison is a major concern. Previous research has shown that the factors associated with prison suicide were being white, male and on remand. The most common method of committing suicide was by asphyxiation, and around 50% of the suicides occurred within the first month of imprisonment. Most individuals had a history of drug and/or alcohol misuse and had received a psychiatric diagnosis at reception into prison, and several prisoners had secondary diagnoses, suggesting complex mental health needs. The current prison suicide prevention policy aims to monitor risk and plan the care of at-risk individuals using the ‘Self-Harm At-Risk’ F2052SH form. This policy was criticized for failing to give sufficient attention to high-risk groups, and it was found that there were high levels of ‘unmet need’. The Assessment, Care in Custody, Teamwork (ACCT) Plan was piloted in 2004, and will replace the F2052SH system shortly. The ACCT Plan should address recommendations of the literature, including screening for mental health problems, improved information exchange and clear suicide prevention strategies. Following a successful evaluation, the ACCT will be implemented nationally.