Project Description

Significant numbers of people with mental disorder present to the police and for many this is their only route and contact with psychiatric care.

The criminal justice system and healthcare professionals therefore have a vital role to play in the assessment and management of such people to ensure that interventions and diversions are both appropriate and timely. This is suggested through multi-agency work streams and collaborative initiatives to support improved facilitation.

With a particular focus on how the S136 service links with other acute mental health services such as PICU Merseyside wanted to illustrate the wider benefits of the S136 work to date, as well as understanding how this compares nationally, in order to make the case for future delivery. JMB Health Consultancy Ltd were delighted to have been commissioned to develop a progress report measuring the impact to date.

It was extremely encouraging to note that as the numbers of Section 136 assessments have increased, access to appropriate places of safety have improved significantly to meet the demand, with all hospitals across the Mersey Care footprint recognised as preferred places of safety, in addition to a purpose built S136 suite in Liverpool.

The implementation of multi-agency systems, processes and effective risk management tools has provided clarity for roles and responsibilities giving definition for a shared approach to care for the S136 process across health and criminal justice systems.

Improvement in data collection tools both nationally and locally has allowed a clearer understanding of the complexities of this client group with the most appropriate pathways to address repeat attenders who often fall through the nets of both statutory health and social care provision.

Commissioner investment in additional resources, and a diversion scheme pilot ‘Street Cars’ in Merseyside is already beginning to illustrate key benefits across whole systems including criminal justice, acute sector and mental health services. Although the foundations have essentially been laid, however ongoing commitment via a 24/7 approach to care, supported by local investment will ensure that the S136 process continues to flourish.

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