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Date: April 30, 2024 Tue
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Results for mental health services
196 results foundAuthor: Almquist, Lauren Title: Mental Health Courts: A guide to research-informed policy and practice Summary: This guide is intended to assist policymakers and practitioners in assessing the utility of mental health courts. After briefly describing who participates in mental health courts and how these courts function, this guide reviews research findings that address the extent to which mental health courts have been found to achieve their stated goals. Because mental health courts are relatively new, many unanswered questions remain on how they work, for whom, and under what circumstances; these outstanding research questions are highlighted in the final portion of this guide. Details: New York: Council of State Governments Justice Center, 2009. 54p. Source: Internet Source: https://www.bja.gov/Publications/CSG_MHC_Research.pdf Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: https://www.bja.gov/Publications/CSG_MHC_Research.pdf Shelf Number: 116672 Keywords: Mental HealthMental Health CourtsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: Reuland, Melissa Title: Improving Responses to People with Mental Illnesses: Tailoring Law Enforcement Initiatives to Individual Jurisdictions Summary: A growing number of law enforcement agencies have partnered with mental health agencies and community groups to design and implement innovative programs to improve encounters involving people with mental illnesses. These specialized policing responses are designed to produce better outcomes from these encounters by training responders to use crisis de-escalation strategies and prioritize treatment over incarceration when appropriate. This publication provides guidance for jurisdictions that want to improve such interactions. Details: New York: Justice Center, Council of State Governments Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance; Police Executive Research Forum Year: 0 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 117873 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesPolice Services for the Mentally Ill |
Author: Parsonage, Michael Title: Diversion: A Better Way for Criminal Justice and Mental Health Summary: This report assesses the case for diversion for offenders with mental health problems from a value for money perspective. Details: London: Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health, 2009. 64p. Source: Year: 2009 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 113862 Keywords: Alternatives to Prison (Economic Aspects)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Inmates |
Author: Renshaw, Judy Title: Waiting on the Wings: A Review of the Costs and Benefits of SEcure Psychiatric Hospital Care for People in the Criminal Justice System with Severe Mental Health Problems Summary: This report examines the prevalence of mental illness with the U.K. prison system, the costs associated with treatment of those prisoners in both prison and in medium secure hospitals and the financial savings that could be made if more prisoners received more appropriate, timely treatment. Details: London: Laing & Buisson, 2010. 20p. Source: Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 118158 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners |
Author: Carswell, Sue Title: Evaluation of the Mental Health Initiative at the Rotorua Police Station Summary: The Police Consult/Liaison Nurse position at Rotorua Station (New Zealand) was regarded by interviewees as very effective for the timely assessment and facilitation of treatment for detainees/arrestees and was thought to contribute to better outcomes for these people. While the co-location of a mental health nurse with police provided the opportunities for effective intervention it was undoubtedly the way the Police Consult/Liaison Nurse at Rotorua developed and implemented her role that made it a success. Details: Wellington: New Zealand Police, 2008. 105p. Source: Year: 2008 Country: New Zealand URL: Shelf Number: 117816 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally IllMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Livingston, James D. Title: Mental Health and Substance Use Services in Correctional Settings: A Review of Minimum Standards and Best Practices Summary: Research consistently demonstrates that custodial and community corrections populations have substantially higher prevalence rates of mental health and substance use problems compared with the general population. This report presents a review of minimum standards and best practices in relation to the provision of mental health and substance use services in correctional settings. The report has been created to serve as a background document for the Centre as it prepares to undertake further work in relation to mental health practices in the criminal justice system. Details: Vancouver, BC: International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and Criminal Justice Policy, 2009. 115p. Source: Year: 2009 Country: International URL: Shelf Number: 116382 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill PrisonersPrisoners (Substance Abuse)Substance Abuse Treatment |
Author: Brooker, Charlie Title: Short-Changed: Spending on Prison Mental Health Care Summary: This report analyses public spending in the U.K. on mental health care in prisons. It compares spending between different regions, by type of prison and in comparison with spending on all types of health care in prisons and with mental health spending in the wider community. Details: London: Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health, 2008. 15p. Source: Year: 2008 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 115739 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Brooker, Charlie Title: Short-Changed: Spending on Prison Mental Health Care Summary: This report analyses public spending in the U.K. on mental health care in prisons. It compares spending between different regions, by type of prison and in comparison with spending on all types of health care in prisons and with mental health spending in the wider community. Details: London: Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health, 2008. 15p. Source: Year: 2008 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 115739 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Frank, Richard Title: Mental Health Treatment and Criminal Justice Outcomes Summary: Are many prisoners in jail or prison bacause of their mental illness? And if so, is mental health treatment a cost-effective way to reduce and lower criminal justice costs? This paper reviews and evaluates the evidence assessing the potential of expansion of mental health services for reducing crime. Details: Cambridge, MA: National Bureau of Economic Research, 2010. 51p. Source: NBER Working Paper Series: Working Paper 15858 Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 118426 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Inmates |
Author: Sinha, Maire Title: An Investigation into the Feasibility of Collecting Data on the Involvement of Adults and Youth with Mental Health Issues in the Criminal Justice System Summary: This report examines the feasibility of collecting data on the involvement of adults and youths with mental health issues in the Canadian criminal justice system. The study had three main goals: 1) To provide an overview of the history of societal and legislative treatment of mental illness in Canada and studies on the relationship between individuals with mental illness and the criminal justice system; 2) to consult criminal justice stakeholders on their information priorities, data collection, barriers to data collection, and the feasibility of collecting data on the contact of individuals with mental health issues in the criminal justice system; and 3) to propose viable options for data collection involving police, courts, and corrections. Details: Ottawa: Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics, Statistics Canada, 2009. 82p. Source: Crime and Justice Research Paper Series; Internet Resource Year: 2009 Country: Canada URL: Shelf Number: 118724 Keywords: Mental Health (Canada)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health Title: The Chance of a Lifetime: Preventing Early Conduct Problems and Reducing Crime Summary: This paper examines the links between early conduct problems and subsequent offending. It makes the case for greatly increased investment in evidence-based programs to reduce the prevalence and severity of conduct problems in childhood. It shows that, in addition to improvement in the quality of life for many individuals and their families, the potential long-term benefits to society as a whole are enormous, particularly in terms of crime prevention. Details: London: Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health, 2009. 12p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2009 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 118794 Keywords: Antisocial Personality DisordersMental Health (U.K.)Mental Health Services |
Author: Great Britain. Department of Health Title: Improving Health, Supporting Justice: The National delivery Plan of the Health and Criminal Justice Programme Board Summary: Whether in custody or under community supervision, offenders are much more likely than average to be subject to factors such as mental illnesses, personality disorders, learning disabilities, substance misuse, homelessness and poor educational achievement. The focus of this National Delivery Plan is to highlight the potential for a more effective use of resources across U.K. agencies, and the gains that can be made by improving the quality of services. Details: London: Department of Health, 2009. 69p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2009 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 118693 Keywords: Health Care (U.K.)Health Policy (U.K.)Mental Health Services |
Author: Hayes, Lindsay M. Title: National Study of Jail Suicide: 20 Years Later Summary: This report presents the most comprehensive updated information on the extent and distribution of inmate suicides throughout the country, including data on the changing face of suicide victims. Most important, the study challenges both jail and health-care officials and their respective staffs to remain diligent in identifying and managing suicidal inmates. Details: Washington, DC: U.S. National Institute of Corrections, 2010. 68p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 119104 Keywords: Inmate SuicidesJail SuicideJailsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Inmates |
Author: Ward, Rebecca Title: ACCESS: Assertive Continuing Care Ensuring Sobriety and Success Final Evaluation Report Summary: As formerly incarcerated youth return to the community, they are often faced with significant barriers to effective reintegration, including lack of educational and housing options, gang affiliation, an institutional identity, and substance abuse and mental health problems. During recent years, more attention has been paid to these reentry issues, which has resulted in the development of a number of evidence-based reentry models. One of these, Assertive Continuing Care (ACC), uses intensive case management, home visits, and parental/caregiver involvement to directly target the multiple barriers these youth face to successful reentry. In 2004, Using ACC as a model, Phoenix House of San Diego, Inc., created the ACCESS program to address the needs of youg offenders reentering local communities from detention facilities in San Diego County. This report provides a description of clients who entered the program and information on services provided, as well as outcomes measured by initial and six-month follow-up interviews, risk assessments, and criminal and placement history information. Results indicate that youth who successfully complete the program reported increased mental health, higher resiliency scores, and were less likely to recidivate. Details: San Diego, CA: San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), 2009. v.p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 119221 Keywords: Juvenile Offenders (San Diego)Mental Health ServicesRecidivismReentry, JuvenilesRehabilitation |
Author: Cloyes, Kristin G. Title: Time to Return to Prison for Serious Mentally Ill Offenders Released from Utah State Prison 1998-2002 Summary: This report describes the first stage in a program of research examining the effects of prison-based and community-based mental health treatment on the length of time that offenders with serious mental illness (SMI) in Utah State remain out of prison. The preliminary study reported here analyzed recidivism in offenders with SMI released from Utah State Prison 1998-2002 compared with non-SMI offenders released in the same period. Details: Salt Lake City, UT: Utah Criminal Justice Center, University of Utah, 2007. 49p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2007 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 114817 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Utah)Recidivism |
Author: Torrey, E. Fuller Title: More Mentally Ill Persons Are in Jails and Prisons Than Hospitals: A Survey of the States Summary: This study found that Americans with severe mental illnesses are three times more likely to be in jail or prison than in a psychiatric hospital. The odds of a seriously mentally ill individual being imprisoned rather than hospitalized are 3.2 to 1, state data shows. The report compares statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Bureau of Justice Statistics collected during 2004 and 2005, respectively. The report also found a very strong correlation between those states that have more mentally ill persons in jails and prisons and those states that are spending less money on mental health services. Details: Arlington, VA: Treatment Advocacy Center and the National Sheriffs' Association, 2010. 22p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 118698 Keywords: JailsMental HealthMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners |
Author: Keaton, Sandy Title: Families as Healers: Phoenix House San Diego's Family Services Enhancement Program Summary: The goal of the Families as Healers (FAH) program is to strengthen and expand Phoenix House San Diego’s Family Services programming to improve the quality and access of services while enhancing a program that promotes healthy behaviors. The project, which received initial funding from The California Endowment, aimed to provide services to approximately 50 unduplicated youths between August 1, 2006, and July 31, 2008. This funding was extended with a grant from the Alliance Healthcare Foundation to enhance the specialized health and mental services as well as extend the follow-up period through September 2009. During this period the program exceeded its goal to serve 50 youth and their families, with a total of 320 youth enrolled and agreeing to participate in the evaluation. The Criminal Justice Research Division of SANDAG conducted the impact evaluation of the FAH program by analyzing data on participants at intake, exit, and six months post exit. Data showed that FAH clients were dealing with multiple issues including severe substance use, mental health symptoms, and delinquent behavior. Additionally, compared to outpatient clients, residential clients were at higher risk in most categories. Exit and data follow-up data exit showed that youth made positive gains in substance use, school/employment participation, and delinquency. This is the sixth and final report. Details: San Diego: SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments), 2009. 27p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 118764 Keywords: Drug TreatmentFamily InterventionsJuvenile Offenders (San Diego)Mental Health ServicesRecidivismRehabilitation, JuvenilesSubstance Abuse |
Author: Lennox, Charlotte Title: Offender Health: Scoping Review and Research Priorities within the UK Summary: This report is a scoping review of the literature surrounding health of people in contact with police custody, court, and probation settings. The aim of this report is: 1) to conduct a review of the current literature the health of people in police custody, courts and probations; 2)to discuss and evaluate the implications of the literature; and 3) to provide research priorities based on the knowledge gaps. Details: Liverpool: Offender Health Research Network, 2009. 71p. Source: Internet Resource Year: 2009 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 117360 Keywords: Drug TreatmentHealth Care, OffendersMedical CareMental Health ServicesRehabilitation |
Author: Paulin, Judy Title: Evaluation of the Mental Health/Alcohol and Other Drug Watch-house Nurse Pilot Initiative Summary: The Watch-house Nurse (WHN) initiative began operating at the Christchurch Central and Counties Manukau Police station watch-houses on 1 July 2008 and 1 August 2008 respectively. The initiative is intended to run as a pilot project until 30 June 2010. The initiative places appropriately qualified nurses within these two watch-houses to assist the police to better manage the risks of those in their custody who have mental health, alcohol or other drug (AOD) problems. Where appropriate, the nurses also make referrals for detainees to treatment providers. This final evaluation report presents the findings about the WHN initiative during its first 18 months of operation. In doing so, it addresses the main objectives of the pilot, and intended outcomes of these objectives in turn. Details: Wellington, NZ: New Zealand Police, 2010. 147p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 23, 2010 at: http://www.police.govt.nz/sites/default/files/resources/evaluation/2010-08-03%20WHN_evaluation_FINAL_ELECTRONIC.pdf Year: 2010 Country: New Zealand URL: http://www.police.govt.nz/sites/default/files/resources/evaluation/2010-08-03%20WHN_evaluation_FINAL_ELECTRONIC.pdf Shelf Number: 119665 Keywords: Alcohol AbuseDrug OffendersMedical CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersNursesPolicing |
Author: Krisberg, Barry Title: Healthy Returns Initiative: Strengthening Mental Health Services in the Juvenile Justice System Summary: Youth in the juvenile justice system suffer from a variety of mental illnesses, and, if not treated, these issues can become worse. The published literature shows that most of the youth in the system suffer from a debilitating mental illness. Lack of health care coverage also represents a major issue, as there are few services available to youth who do not have coverage. Details: Oakland, CA: National Council on Crime and Delinquency, 2010. 43p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 24, 2010 at: http://nccd-crc.issuelab.org/research/listing/healthy_returns_initiative_strengthening_mental_health_services_in_the_juvenile_justice_system Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: http://nccd-crc.issuelab.org/research/listing/healthy_returns_initiative_strengthening_mental_health_services_in_the_juvenile_justice_system Shelf Number: 119675 Keywords: Juvenile Justice SystemJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Gotsis, Tom Title: Diverting Mentally Disordered Offenders in the NSW Local Court Summary: Section 32 of the Mental Health (Criminal Procedure) Act 1990 enables mentally disordered defendants facing criminal charges in the New South Wales Local Court to be diverted by the court from the criminal justice system. Defendants diverted under s 32(3) between 2004–2006 represented only a small fraction of those who appeared in the Local court. Nearly 80% of defendants subject to a s 32(3) order were discharged conditionally into the care of a responsible person under s 32(3)(a) (55%) or for assessment and/or treatment under s 32(3)(b) (24%).ii The offences allegedly committed by these defendants were varied but traffic offences were not predominant. Magistrates expressed a reluctance to utilise s 32 orders for traffic offences. Details: Sydney: Judicial Commission of NSW, 2008. 58p. Source: Internet Resource: Monograph 31: Accessed August 28, 2010 at: http://www.judcom.nsw.gov.au/publications/research-monographs-1/monograph31/monograph31.pdf Year: 2008 Country: Australia URL: http://www.judcom.nsw.gov.au/publications/research-monographs-1/monograph31/monograph31.pdf Shelf Number: 119701 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Khan, Lorraine Title: You Just Get On and Do It: Healthcare Provision in Youth Offending Teams Summary: Children and young people in the youth justice system are at high risk of multiple health inequalities and poor life chances. Research indicates that these young people have their needs under identified and supported after entry into the Youth Justice System. This paper shows the results of our study of healthcare provision in YOTs in England. We also reviewed mental health diversion work along the youth justice pathway to look at how these services might be better developed to improve outcomes for young people and their families. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2010. 95p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 11, 2010 at: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/Centre_for_MH_Healthcare_provision_YOTs.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/Centre_for_MH_Healthcare_provision_YOTs.pdf Shelf Number: 119917 Keywords: Juvenile InmatesJuvenile OffendersMedical CareMental Health Services |
Author: Khan, Lorraine Title: Reaching Out, Reaching In: Promoting Mental Health and Emotional Well-being in Secure Settings Summary: Young people sentenced to custody have very high levels of mental health problems. They are also more likely to have learning disabilities and speech, language and communication needs, as well as a range of other complex and multiple vulnerabilities that compromise their future life chances and their health and well-being. This study was commissioned by the UK Department of Health to review current levels and standards of mental health provision in the young people’s secure estate in England. Specifically, the study aimed to: consider how provision in the young people’s secure estate compared with mental health services for children and young people in the community; consider the extent to which mental health services in secure settings meet the mental health and emotional well-being needs of young people; and disseminate examples of promising practice. A particular focus was the impact of the additional funding provided by the Department of Health from 2007/08 for the provision of child and adolescent mental health services in young offender institutions (YOIs). This research suggests that the Department of Health funding had resulted in significant improvements in mental health provision and awareness in YOIs. However, it had the unintended effect of throwing into greater relief disparities in the mental health care provision across the whole young people’s secure estate; these commissioning differences result from different commissioning arrangements. A number of areas were identified where further development is needed. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2010. 93p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 11, 2010: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/Centre_for_MH_Promoting_mh_in_secure_settings.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/Centre_for_MH_Promoting_mh_in_secure_settings.pdf Shelf Number: 119921 Keywords: Juvenile DetentionJuvenile OffendersMental HealthMental Health Services |
Author: Appleby, Louis Title: Prison Mental Health: Vision and Reality Summary: The need for better mental health care in prisons has been evident for some time. Reports throughout the last two decades have shown that prisoners have dramatically higher rates of the whole range of mental health problems compared to the general population. This publication aims to examine what has been achieved in prison mental health over recent years from a number of different personal perspectives and individual observations of working in England. It looks at the specific achievements of inreach teams and of efforts to divert offenders from custody. It also looks more broadly at the rapid growth of the prison population during the same period and the treatment of offenders with mental health problems outside as well as inside prison. Details: London: Royal College of Nursing, 2010. 25p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 12, 2010 at: http://www.rcn.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/339379/003832.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.rcn.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/339379/003832.pdf Shelf Number: 119932 Keywords: InmatesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisons |
Author: Wisconsin Legislative Audit Bureau Title: An Evaluation: Inmate Mental Health Care: Department of Corrections, Department of Health Services Summary: Adult inmates in Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) custody, including those with mental illnesses, are housed in 20 maximum, medium, and minimum security institutions; 16 minimum security correctional centers; and the Wisconsin Resource Center (WRC) operated by the Department of Health Services (DHS). In June 2008, 6,957 inmates were identified as mentally ill, including 299 housed at WRC. Expenditures for inmate mental health care totaled approximately $59.8 million in fiscal year (FY) 2007-08. In FY 2007-08, expenditures for inmate mental health care totaled approximately $59.8 million. Mentally ill inmates are screened and monitored regularly, but treatment programming is limited at some institutions. Mentally ill inmates account for a disproportionate share of self-harm incidents and assaults on staff. A September 2008 settlement agreement requires improvements to mental health care services at Taycheedah Correctional Institution. Concerns have been raised regarding the cost and availability of treatment for mentally ill inmates, including the services they receive while incarcerated and in preparation for release into the community. Therefore, at the request of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, this audit analyzed: staffing and expenditures for mental health services; DOC’s process for identifying mentally ill and developmentally disabled inmates, and their locations and characteristics; the monitoring and treatment of mentally ill inmates; safety and discipline, including self-harm and assaults by mentally ill inmates and their placement in segregation; placements at WRC and services provided; planning and preparation for the release of inmates into the community; and DOC’s activities to improve mental health care services, including those undertaken in response to a recent legal settlement. Details: Madison, WI: Wisconsin Legislative Audit Bureau, 2009. 123p. Source: Internet Resource: Report 09-4: Accessed October 20, 2010 at: http://www.legis.state.wi.us/lab/reports/09-4full.pdf Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: http://www.legis.state.wi.us/lab/reports/09-4full.pdf Shelf Number: 120030 Keywords: Inmates, Mentally IllMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Markman, Joshua A. Title: Evaluation of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction and Corporation for Supportive Housing's Pilot Program: Interim Re-Arrest Analysis Summary: In March 2007, the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) and the Corporation for Supportive Housing Ohio Office (CSH) developed a permanent supportive housing pilot program. The pilot was designed to house approximately 100 individuals returning from select prisons throughout Ohio to the Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo communities. The 13 institutions participating in the pilot included the Allen, Chillicothe, Grafton, Hocking, London, Lorain, Madison, Marion, Pickaway, and Trumbull Correctional Institutions; the Ohio Reformatory for Women; and the Franklin and Northeastern Prerelease Centers. The pilot, funded primarily by the ODRC, but also a part of CSH’s Returning Home Initiative, has three main goals: to reduce recidivism; to reduce homelessness; and to decrease the costs associated with multiple service use across the criminal justice, housing/homelessness, and mental health service systems. The Urban Institute (UI) is evaluating the pilot to assess the impact on recidivism and residential stability and to test whether the benefits associated with the pilot outweigh its costs. The final report will be complete in summer 2012. In this paper, we report the results of an interim analysis of re-arrest for both the treatment and comparison groups, including descriptive statistics on the study sample. Details: Washington DC: Urban Institute, 2010. 12p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 26, 2010 at: http://www.urban.org/uploadedpdf/412224-interim-recidivism-analysis.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: http://www.urban.org/uploadedpdf/412224-interim-recidivism-analysis.pdf Shelf Number: 120093 Keywords: HomelessnessHousingMental Health ServicesRecidivismReentry |
Author: White, Michael D. Title: The Prevalence and Problem of Military Veterans in the Maricopa County Arrestee Population Summary: Little is known regarding the prevalence of military veterans in the criminal justice system, the nature of their cases and prior experiences, as well how combat-related conditions such as PTSD or TBI may have contributed to their involvement in the system. Information on these issues would be tremendously useful for those seeking to facilitate returning veterans’ readjustment to civilian life (e.g., Veterans Affairs), as well as for both criminal justice policy and practice and the continuing development of Veteran’s Courts. This report seeks to address the knowledge gap in this area through an examination of 2,102 recently booked arrestees in Maricopa County, Arizona. Using interview data from the Arizona Arrestee Reporting Information Network (AARIN), the report characterizes the problems and prior experiences of military veterans, and to compare veteran and nonveteran arrestees along a range of demographic, background and criminal behavior measures. The overall objectives of the paper are to determine the prevalence of military veterans in the Maricopa County arrestee population and to assess the extent to which the arrested veterans differ from the larger arrestee population. Details: Phoenix AZ: Center for Violence Prevention and Community Safety, Arizona State University, 2010. 14p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 28, 2010 at: http://cvpcs.asu.edu/aarin/aarin-reports-1/aarin-veterans-report Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: http://cvpcs.asu.edu/aarin/aarin-reports-1/aarin-veterans-report Shelf Number: 120114 Keywords: ArresteesMental Health ServicesMilitary VeteransSubstance Abuse |
Author: Hanlon, Carrie Title: A Multi-Agency Approach to Using Medicaid to Meet the Health Needs of Juvenile Justice-Involved Youth Summary: Juvenile justice, mental health, and Medicaid agencies have a common interest in meeting the health needs of youth in the juvenile justice system. There is evidence that youth involved in the juvenile justice system have both unmet, and more extensive than average, needs. Better meeting those needs could result in more efficient and effective use of the resources available to the three agencies – and in decreased recidivism, as well as improvements in children’s well-being and their ability to remain in the community. However, these three agencies have different, yet overlapping, program objectives, funding sources, target populations, and partners at the federal, state, and county levels. This situation creates both barriers and opportunities in using these agencies’ resources to meet the health and behavioral health needs of children involved with the juvenile justice system. In mid-2008, the National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) began work to: (1) identify the barriers to the effective use of the resources available to juvenile justice, mental health, and Medicaid agencies to meet the health and mental health needs of children involved with the juvenile justice system, and (2) surface potential policies and strategies that states could implement to address those barriers. Specifically, with the support of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, NASHP staff conducted a literature review and interviewed agency and community stakeholders in five states. Analysis of the interviews found that the barriers cited by informants fell into two categories: Knowledge: Staff from one a local agencies did not know relevant state policies (and vice versa), and there was little data about the health needs of the children served by more than one agency. Interviewees report that some state policies presented barriers for those seeking to access the coverage or services for which children qualified. Finally, this study identified opportunities for improvement and ‘promising practices’ within four strategic areas: • Improving knowledge of how the relevant systems do (or should) work among state agencies and local/state levels, • Improving eligibility policies and processes to ensure that Medicaid eligible children participate in the program, • Improving service coverage policies to ensure that Medicaid beneficiaries in the juvenile justice system receive the Medicaid covered services they need, and • Collaborating among agencies to use their combined resources to meet the needs of these children. Details: Portland, ME: National Academy for State Health Policy, 2008. 21p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 29, 2010 at: http://www.nashp.org/sites/default/files/Multi_Agency_NASHP.pdf Year: 2008 Country: United States URL: http://www.nashp.org/sites/default/files/Multi_Agency_NASHP.pdf Shelf Number: 120135 Keywords: Juvenile OffendersMedicaidMedical CareMental Health Services |
Author: Berkeley Center for Criminal Justice Title: Mental Health Issues in California's Juvenile Justice System Summary: Youth with mental health issues pose numerous challenges to California’s juvenile justice system. Despite significant resources dedicated to the provision of mental health services, California’s juvenile justice system has been unable to adequately meet the needs of this population. Youth diagnosed with mental illness have been steadily increasing in the juvenile justice system for nearly a decade, as have the numbers of youth receiving treatment (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 2005). This trend, taken together with independent reports and media accounts documenting the failures of the juvenile justice system, underscores the urgent need for change. One of the difficulties in meeting the needs of youth with mental health issues is highlighted by the tensions inherent in the juvenile justice system itself. The system must respond to delinquent behavior based upon competing mandates and priorities, including the desire to rehabilitate juvenile offenders and treat any potential pathologies believed to have caused them to engage in delinquent behavior, as well as the need to hold them accountable for their behavior and protect public safety. Balancing these competing priorities is an ongoing challenge for probation staff and practitioners. The critical nature of that challenge is especially heightened when the youth has mental health issues. How systems of care respond to this population’s needs significantly impacts probation, mental health service providers, the courts, community-based organizations, and most importantly, the youth themselves and their families. By making the case for universal mental health definitions, screening and assessment, outcomes-based programs, and collaboration, this policy brief offers research-based recommendations on how juvenile justice and other systems of care can better meet the needs of youth with mental health issues. The overarching goal of these recommendations is to enhance the provision of mental health treatment in California’s juvenile justice system by improving the infrastructure that supports service delivery. Details: Berkeley, CA: Berkeley Center for Criminal Justice, University of California, Berkeley, 2010. 17p. Source: Internet Resource: Juvenile Justice Policy Brief Series: Accessed November 1, 2010 at: http://www.law.berkeley.edu/img/BCCJ_Mental_Health_Policy_Brief_May_2010.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: http://www.law.berkeley.edu/img/BCCJ_Mental_Health_Policy_Brief_May_2010.pdf Shelf Number: 120140 Keywords: Juvenile Justice SystemsJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Clark, Karen Title: Meeting the Health Needs of Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System Summary: Nearly 100,000 young people are in juvenile justice facilities of some sort on any given day, with more than 2 million arrested in a year. Of those in residential settings, 62 percent are minorities, 85 percent are boys, and many, if not most, lack adequate health insurance coverage. Youth in juvenile justice facilities - including detention centers, shelters, diagnostic centers, group homes, wilderness programs, residential treatment facilities and training schools (where most juveniles are committed) - suffer disproportionately from a host of mental and physical health problems. The presence and severity of health problems may help explain the behaviors that led to their involvement in the criminal justice system and make it critical they receive the appropriate medical services both in the system and upon their release. Most of those arrested do not end up at trial. Of those who are tried, about two-thirds are sentenced to probation after a trial, allowing a true opportunity for therapeutic intervention in the community. Given the preponderance of low-income youth involved with the juvenile justice system, it is likely that many who enter are enrolled in or eligible for Medicaid. States and local governments face stiff challenges in organizing and funding services for troubled youth. One challenge is to make Medicaid work better for this population during those times an individual is not in a public institution. Another challenge is to ensure that quality and effective services are provided to individuals both during and after their involvement in the juvenile justice system. Medicaid presents unique limits and opportunities compared to state and local funding. Services provided to those involved in the juvenile justice system are impacted by these funding matters. This paper describes these limits and opportunities, and highlights a number of promising practices and service models in states. Details: Portland, ME: National Academy for State Health Policy, 2006. 27p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 1, 2010 at: Year: 2006 Country: United States URL: Shelf Number: 120146 Keywords: Health CareJuvenile OffendersMedical CareMental Health Services |
Author: Talbot, Jenny Title: Seen and Heard: Supporting Vulnerable Children in the Youth Justice System Summary: It is well established that high numbers of children who come to the attention of UK youth justice services have complex support needs. It is further acknowledged that addressing these needs helps to prevent a range of negative outcomes and reduces reoffending. How staff from youth offending teams (YOTs) identify and support children with particular impairments and difficulties who come to the attention of youth justice services, and what support they receive, was the primary focus of this study. The study shows significant variations between local youth justice services, to the extent that children with impairments and difficulties receive treatment and support as much on the basis of where they live, as on need. Especially concerning was the view, held by most YOT staff, that children with learning disabilities, communication difficulties, mental health problems, ADHD, and low levels of literacy who offend were more likely than children without such impairments to receive a custodial sentence. Although the overall picture from this study was mixed there were many examples where the support needs of children were being identified and met; where youth justice programmes and activities were being thoughtfully and skilfully adapted to include children, and where routine training and support for YOT staff took place. Details: London: Prison Reform Trust, 2010. 92p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 27, 2010 at: http://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk/uploads/documents/SeenandHeardFINAL.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk/uploads/documents/SeenandHeardFINAL.pdf Shelf Number: 120291 Keywords: Juvenile Justice SystemsJuvenile OffendersLearning DisabilitiesMental Health Services |
Author: Zemel, Sarabeth Title: Findings from a Survey of Juvenile Justice and Medicaid policies Affecting Children in the Juvenile Justice System: Inter-Agency Collaboration Summary: Medicaid is important to juvenile justice-involved youth both as a health care financing mechanism and as a way to access physical and behavioral health services. The National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP), with the support of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, is working with the Models for Change grantee organizations and state policymakers to address the health needs of youth in the juvenile justice system. This issue brief from NASHP is the first in a series that highlights findings from surveys of juvenile justice and Medicaid agencies in order to determine policies around health care and Medicaid for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. The paper focuses on findings related to inter-agency collaboration, as well as educating juvenile justice agencies and staff about Medicaid policies, and data collection about the population both agencies serve. Details: Portland, ME: National Academy for State Health Policy, 2009. 11p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 29, 2010 at: http://www.nashp.org/sites/default/files/JuvJust.pdf Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: http://www.nashp.org/sites/default/files/JuvJust.pdf Shelf Number: 120144 Keywords: Health CareJuvenile OffendersMedicaidMental Health Services |
Author: de Viggiani, Nick Title: Police Custody Healthcare: An Evaluation of an NHS Commissioned Pilot to Deliver a Police Custody Health Service in a Partnership Between Dorset Primary Care Trust and Dorset Police Summary: This evaluation was sponsored by Dorset Primary Care Trust and the South West Strategic Health Authority to examine the local commissioning relationship established to provide police custody healthcare across Dorset's three 24/7 custody suites, located in Poole, Weymouth and Bournemouth. This initiative has the status of a national pilot, and the evaluation is expected to carry lessons for a wide range of audiences in and beyond Dorset. A police custody medical service has operated within Dorset for many years using General Practitioners contracted on a part-time basis as Forensic Physicians (previously referred to as Forensic Medical Examiners or Police Surgeons). Historically, this has been customary practice in the UK, where GPs have been contracted to the police on a part-time basis, although increasing numbers are specialising in forensic work and work as full-time Forensic Physicians, particularly since the establishment of the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine in 2005. The switch to provision commissioned by the NHS was introduced to Dorset in 2008, as a Department of Health/Home Office national pilot. Its purpose was essentially to examine the efficacy of the NHS taking a strategic lead in commissioning police custody healthcare, and, more specifically, to pilot the transfer of commissioning and budgetary responsibility from Dorset Police to Dorset Primary Care Trust. Throughout this trial period, the service has continued to be contracted to an independent provider but is now governed by a partnership agreement between the NHS commissioner and Dorset Police, as the two lead organizations, and through a local partnership board. This shift to mainstream health provision likely reflects the following key areas of thinking: a) concern that a disproportionate number of people entering the criminal justice system present in police custody with significant complex health and social care problems, particularly involving mental illness and/or drug or alcohol dependency, and often require urgent treatment and care; b) perception that the former medical approach to police custody healthcare was inadequate in terms of addressing the complex needs of people entering the criminal justice system, particularly in preventing deaths in custody, a source of intensifying political and professional concern; c) successful reform of prison healthcare, with the shift of commissioning and provision to the NHS in 2006; and d) an emerging "offender pathway‟ health policy focus, led by the Department of Health, that is advocated by the Bradley Report, into which this Dorset pilot fed its experience, and which implies a continuous and integrated approach to the management of health and social needs of people who move through the criminal justice system, between community and custody settings. At the heart of this innovation is the principle of health and social care as a fundamental citizen right. Furthermore, the Audit Commission's 1998 review of the provision of forensic medical services to the police concluded that the service needed to be reformed for the following reasons: [1] difficulties recruiting Forensic Physicians; [2] variable standards of service around the country; [3] inadequate clinical facilities within some custody suites; [4] poor communication and feedback; [5] lack of formal contractual arrangements in some areas; and [5] lack of clear management structure and scrutiny. The service delivered through this pilot represents a shift from the more traditional forensic medical service to one led predominantly by custody nurses. In place of physicians on call, the pilot, as agreed between the NHS Commissioner and Dorset Police required a 24 hour, 7 day nurse presence in each custody suite. An innovative feature of the pilot was the aspiration to link constant nursing presence to a broad triage service, linking police custody detainees to a range of integrated community-based services to address alcohol and drug dependency and other mental and physical healthcare needs. The focus of the evaluation was to understand the commissioning relationship and its impact, given that the key innovative aspect of the Dorset scheme was the introduction of NHS commissioning via an NHS organization (a Primary Care Trust). This particular case of commissioning involves the NHS contracting services on the premises and in the area of action of another public sector service. All Primary Care Trusts are now required to operate as "commissioners‟ in procuring and developing health services, and they are held accountable for their effectiveness as commissioners. Details: Bristol, UK: School of Health and Social Care, University of the West of England, 2010. 55p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 30, 2010 at: http://eprints.uwe.ac.uk/8253/1/PC_Evaluation_final.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://eprints.uwe.ac.uk/8253/1/PC_Evaluation_final.pdf Shelf Number: 120318 Keywords: Health CareMedical CareMental Health ServicesPolice Custody (UK) |
Author: Fossey, Matt Title: Under the Radar: Women with Borderline Personality Disorder in Prison Summary: Women in prison are particularly vulnerable to mental health problems and self-harm. It is estimated that around a fifth of women in custody fulfil criteria for borderline personality disorder (BPD), making it a significant issue for the prison health service and an expensive drain on limited prison management resources. Despite the principle of ‘equivalence of care’ in prison health care, guidelines for the management of BPD are rarely observed in prisons. In addition to health care deficits, the prison environment can be traumatic for women with BPD due to the hostile, punitive environment and the experience of incarceration. Family environments are significantly disrupted for all women on custodial sentences, with children frequently relocated and one in ten sent into social care. Women with BPD often have unstable family environments prior to being taken into custody, compounding the effect of this disruption. Looking ahead to future generations, this upset to family life may contribute to the effects of ‘transgenerational transmission’ of criminal behaviour and mental health problems. We recommend: Increased screening and appropriate diversion should be implemented to avoid custodial sentences where possible for women with BPD; Prison staff could benefit from increased training to raise awareness and improve the quality of care in prison; Where custodial sentences are necessary, evidence-based therapeutic interventions should be available to support women with BPD in prison; Where appropriate, evidence-based family interventions should be made available. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2010. 15p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed December 2, 2010 at: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/under_the_radar.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/under_the_radar.pdf Shelf Number: 120341 Keywords: Female InmatesFemale Offenders (U.K.)Health CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Bunting, Lisa Title: Sexual Abuse and Therapeutic Services for Children and Young People in Northern Ireland: The Gap Between Provision and Need Summary: Research with young adults in the UK has found that 16 per cent (11 per cent of males and 21 per cent of females) reported experiences of sexual abuse in childhood. Childhood sexual abuse has been associated with both short- and long-term mental health problems such as anxiety, phobic reactions, guilt, substance abuse, difficulty trusting others, low self-esteem and dissociation, and depression and even suicide. The Corston Report (Home Office, 2007) highlights criminality as a very real potential consequence of these problems, revealing that a high proportion of female inmates have a history of sexual abuse. Research also suggests that individuals with a history of sexual abuse and victimisation are at a greater risk of re-victimisation. More recently Finkelhor et al found that a significant number of children experience more than one type of violence (referred to as “poly-victims”). Therapeutic services aim to address the mental health issues arising from such abuse. However, across the UK there are significant information gaps in the area of service provision for child sexual abuse victims and little is known about the availability and accessibility of support and therapeutic services for this group. This research, which was generously funded by the Private Equity Foundation, aimed to address this gap in our current knowledge by mapping the availability of therapeutic services that support children and young people affected by sexual abuse across the United Kingdom. This report details the UK-wide findings from the research, as well as providing a comprehensive review of the research literature relating to sexual abuse and therapeutic service provision. The current report specifically examines the policy and service framework and research findings as they relate to the Northern Ireland context. Details: London: National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, 2010. 79p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed December 6, 2010 at: http://www.nspcc.org.uk/Inform/research/findings/sexual_abuse_therapeutic_services_ni_report_wdf74633.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.nspcc.org.uk/Inform/research/findings/sexual_abuse_therapeutic_services_ni_report_wdf74633.pdf Shelf Number: 120384 Keywords: Child Sexual Abuse (Northern Ireland)Mental Health ServicesSexually Abused ChildrenVictims of Crimes, Services For |
Author: United Community Services of Johnson County Title: Mental Health and Criminal Justice: Intercept Project Report Summary: In Johnson County, Kansas, and across the United States too often men and women with mental illness land in jail. The Johnson County Mental Health and Criminal Justice Intercept Project Report is the result of nineteen months of planning to address this problem. The project involved leaders and staff from eleven organizations that have accepted the responsibility for improving our community’s response to adults with mental health needs who come in contact with the criminal justice system. The study found that approximately 17 percent of incarcerates in Johnson County Jail were diagnosed with a mental illness. This report (with an appendix) is divided into six sections: 1) Introduction and background; 2) Project description including participants, model used, planning process, mapping and identification of issues; 3) Findings; 4) Barriers, goals and recommendations; 5) Guiding principles, key elements; 6) The future. The project recommendations, arrived at by consensus, are intended as a guide for organizations, both individually and collectively. The goal is a system that intervenes at the earliest point possible and also helps incarcerated adults with mental illness prepare for safe and successful transition to the community. Essential to intervening at the earliest point is a mental health system with adequate capacity to serve those who need help. Recommendations are presented for the six key intercept points that were investigated. (Intercept points, indicated in bold italics throughout the report, are when opportunities occur for preventative services to keep individuals from going deeper into the criminal justice system.) While every recommendation is important for overall systems improvement, a small number are identified as priorities. Common themes for every system include education about mental illness, cross-training of staff, and the involvement of family members and loved ones of persons with mental illness. Details: Lenexa, KS: United Community Services of Johnson County, 2010. 40p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 2, 2011 at: http://cmo.jocogov.org/CJAC/CJ%20MH%20TASK%20FORCE%20Report%20to%20CJAC.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: http://cmo.jocogov.org/CJAC/CJ%20MH%20TASK%20FORCE%20Report%20to%20CJAC.pdf Shelf Number: 120674 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Canada. Parliament. House of Commons. Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security Title: Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Addiction in the Federal Correctional System Summary: Correctional institutions in Canada, like those in many countries, including Norway and England, accommodate large numbers of inmates suffering from mental disorders and drug and alcohol addiction. In Canada, some 80% of offenders serving prison sentences of two years or more have problems with drugs and/or alcohol. Approximately one in ten male inmates (12%), and one in five female inmates (21%), suffer from serious mental disorders upon admission to a federal correctional institution. This is not a recent development. Research has clearly shown that the correctional community, here as in elsewhere, is in poorer health overall than the population at large. The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (hereafter the Committee) is concerned however about the scope of this phenomenon within Canada’s federal correctional system, and the lack of resources to enable Correctional Service Canada (CSC), which is responsible for the custody of offenders sentenced to two years or more, to meet the growing mental health and addiction needs of federal offenders. This report contains the Committee’s observations and recommendations based on its review of the policies, practices and programs adopted by CSC to provide treatment and support for federal offenders affected by mental disorders or addiction. The review highlighted the urgent need for an expansion of CSC’s capacity to meet the growing needs of these offenders. The situation demands decisive federal government action; the Committee believes this should include the immediate allocation of additional financial resources to CSC for this purpose. The CSC should in turn give priority to improving how it deals with mental health disorders and addiction issues. This is a public safety issue because offenders who fail to receive appropriate treatment while in custody are more likely to reoffend after release, thus threatening the security of all Canadians. That said, the Committee agrees with those who have testified before it that as far as possible, people suffering from mental disorders and addictions should not end up in detention because of these problems or the lack of community ressources. Correctional institutions should not be serving as hospitals by default. In general, prison is not suited to caring for people affected by such problems. Indeed, mental health experts agree that the prison environment is harmful to mental health. Moreover, because of the constraints inherent in the prison setting, therapeutic interventions are complicated and expensive. Like its witnesses, the Committee has concluded that CSC alone cannot cope with mental health and addiction problems in prisons. The criminalization and incarceration of those suffering from mental disorders or addictions is part of a broader context in which various players—government and non-government agencies—are active: the healthcare, social services and justice sectors. To avoid imprisoning people inappropriately because of their mental health disorders or addictions, all participants in the system have to work more closely together. Governments will have to establish a comprehensive, integrated and efficient mental health system based on promoting mental health and preventive care, early detection of mental disorders and addictions, access in the community to effective care and treatment and, as appropriate, the reintegration of those affected. The Committee’s study has also shed light on the need for rapid intervention, well before those concerned come into conflict with the law. When a crime is committed, there must be a capacity to assess the mental health of the accused in order to refer him or her to appropriate healthcare and support services and acquaint court officials with the accused’s requirements. The Committee shares the view of most of its witnesses that such an approach is more consistent with the rights of those suffering from mental disorders and addictions and could generate substantial cost savings in the long run. Imprisonment is expensive and generally unsuited to caring for those rendered vulnerable by mental disorders and addiction issues. Details: Ottawa: The Committee, 2010. 97p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 3, 2011 at: http://www.hsjcc.on.ca/Uploads/commons%20report%20on%20offender%20mh%20dec%202010.pdf Year: 2010 Country: Canada URL: http://www.hsjcc.on.ca/Uploads/commons%20report%20on%20offender%20mh%20dec%202010.pdf Shelf Number: 120683 Keywords: Correctional InstitutionsInmates (Canada)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisonsRehabilitationSubstance Abuse |
Author: Wilson-Bates, Fiona Title: Lost in Transition: How a Lack of Capacity in the Mental Health System in Failing Vancouver's Mentally Ill and Draining Police Resources Summary: The purpose of this report is to provide a quantitative analysis of the prevalence of Vancouver Police Department (VPD) calls for service that involve mentally ill clients; to identify the significant factors that contribute to the frequency of these incidents, and the potential consequences for a mentally ill person who comes into contact with police; and to describe the capacity gaps in the mental health system’s response to the mentally ill from a police perspective. Details: Vancouver, BC: Vancouver Police Department, 2008. 59p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 7, 2011 at: http://vancouver.ca/police/assets/pdf/reports-policies/vpd-lost-in-transition.pdf Year: 2008 Country: Canada URL: http://vancouver.ca/police/assets/pdf/reports-policies/vpd-lost-in-transition.pdf Shelf Number: 120701 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally IllPolice Services for the Mentally Ill |
Author: Offender Health Research Network Title: A National Evaluation of Prison Mental Health In-Reach Services Summary: This report describes a study evaluating prison mental health in-reach, comprising three inter-linked, yet discrete, elements. * A national survey of prison in-reach teams: consisting of a national survey of in-reach team leaders, concentrating on considerations of team size and professional composition; team functioning; barriers to successful operation; and relationships with the wider NHS. * Case studies of in-reach teams: consisting of detailed case studies of the operation of in-reach services in eight prisons. * Longitudinal cohort study of prison in-reach services: identifying a cohort of prisoners received into custody with severe and enduring mental illness and tracking their progress in prison, examining whether they were assessed and/or taken onto the caseloads of in-reach services. In addition, a "snapshot" view was taken of the caseloads of the in-reach teams at each of the study sites, to establish the diagnostic breakdown of their clientele. Details: Manchester, UK: Offender Health Research Network, 2009. 159p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 18, 2011 at: http://www.ohrn.nhs.uk/resource/Research/Inreach.pdf Year: 2009 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.ohrn.nhs.uk/resource/Research/Inreach.pdf Shelf Number: 121066 Keywords: Inmates (U.K.)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners |
Author: Stewart, Lynn A. Title: An Initial Report on the Results of the Pilot of the Computerized Mental Health Intake Screening System (CoMHISS) Summary: With indications that the rate of mental disorder among federally sentenced offenders is increasing, Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) requires tools that can provide efficient standardised methods for screening of offenders who may require mental health intervention. The large numbers of offenders coming into reception centres over a year makes it attractive to look at an automated method that will allow administrators to compile institutional, regional and national statistics and provide quick and accurate profiles of the offenders who are showing significant symptoms of distress. The Computerized Mental Health Intake Screening System (CoMHISS) combines two self report measures tapping psychological problems, the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) and Depression Hopelessness and Suicide Screening Form (DHS), with the Paulhus Deception Scales (PDS). From February 2008 to April 2009 over 1,300 male offenders incarcerated on a new sentence at the regional reception centres completed the measures. In this study, cut-off scores based on psychiatric patient norms determined that less than 3% of the federal male population would be screened in for further service or evaluation. However, using non patient norms almost 40% of the population would be screened in. Further research is required to establish CSC specific norms and appropriate cut off scores. Preliminary data indicate relative higher rates of psychological symptoms among the Aboriginal specific population, but these differences were not statistically significant. Comparative data on the results of the assessment across regional reception centres demonstrated the highest rates of symptomology in the Atlantic region. A profile of the offenders who completed the assessment is presented and compared to those who refused the assessment or produced invalid results. Further research is required to confirm the accuracy of the measures in identifying seriously mentally disordered offenders who will require additional services. Future possible developments of the CoMHISS may include incorporation of measures of cognitive deficits and attention deficit disorder and the merging of the mental health assessments with results from the Computerised Assessment of Substance Abuse which will provide estimates of rates of concurrent disorders. Details: Ottawa: Research Branch, Correctional Service of Canada, 2010. 79p. Source: Internet Resource: Research Report 2010 Nº R-218: Accessed March 26, 2011 at: http://www.csc-scc.gc.ca/text/rsrch/reports/r218/r218-eng.pdf Year: 2010 Country: Canada URL: http://www.csc-scc.gc.ca/text/rsrch/reports/r218/r218-eng.pdf Shelf Number: 121121 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill Offenders (Canada) |
Author: National Center for Youth Law Title: Improving Outcomes for Youth in the Juvenile Justice System-- A Review of Alameda County’s Collaborative Mental Health Court. Summary: Studies consistently show that up to 65 or 70 percent of youths held in American juvenile detention centers have a diagnosable mental illness. Further, a congressional study concluded that every day approximately 2,000 youths are incarcerated simply because community mental health services are unavailable. In 33 states, juvenile detention centers hold mentally ill youths without charges. A majority of detention centers report holding children aged 12 and under; and 117 centers reported jailing children 10 and under. Although the causes are numerous and complex, a growing consensus among experts holds that many youths are put under court supervision due to behavior that stems from unmet mental health needs and the lack of community-based service options. Indeed, many youths with serious mental health needs are in the juvenile justice system because other service systems failed them, and because they have no place else to go. But juvenile halls and prisons are not therapeutic environments for young people with psychological disorders; the juvenile justice system is ill-equipped to meet the needs of these youths. Investigations by the US Department of Justice have called into question the ability of many juvenile justice facilities to respond adequately to the mental health needs of youths in their care. Tragically, this leads to youths languishing in detention centers without treatment, and with little hope of getting better or returning home. Additionally, juvenile justice administrators — whether they are prosecutors, judges or probation officers — generally are not equipped to meet the needs of seriously disturbed youths, and typically juvenile halls and prisons are not adequately funded to do so. Many administrators now recognize that disturbed young people do not belong in detention because their behavior is the result of their illness, and will not improve with traditional detention methods. One promising response to this crisis has been the creation of juvenile mental health courts (JMHCs). Modeled on problem-solving drug courts, these courts focus on treatment rather than punishment. They use a collaborative approach involving representatives of the juvenile court, probation, the prosecutor and public defender’s offices, and mental health liaisons. The goal is to divert mentally ill youths from detention to more appropriate community-based mental health services by providing intensive case management and supervision, rather than relying upon the usual adversarial process. Such courts increase the likelihood that young people will safely return home, re-engage in school and the community, gain ongoing access to needed home and community-based mental health services and supports, and avoid further involvement with the juvenile justice system. Alameda County established its own Juvenile Mental Health Court, called the Alameda County Juvenile Collaborative Court (ACJC), in 2007. This effort was based on the model pioneered by the first juvenile mental health court opened in Santa Clara County, California in 2001. Like other JMHCs, the ACJC (also referred to in this report as “the Court”) serves youths with serious mental illness who typically end up in long-term out-of-home placements. This report presents the organizational premises of the Court as well as its structure and procedures. It describes the factors that control admission into the Court and the demographics of the youths who participate. The report also reviews what the participants — professional collaborators as well as the youths and their families — have to say about the Court, and compares the Court’s results with its founders’ intent. Finally, the authors recommend improvements and examine the prospects for sustaining the Court at its current service level and expanding it to reach more youths. Details: Oakland, CA: National Center for Youth Law, 2011. 76p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 11, 2011 at: http://fosteryouthalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Improving-Outcomes-Pub.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://fosteryouthalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Improving-Outcomes-Pub.pdf Shelf Number: 121305 Keywords: Juvenile DetentionJuvenile Justice System (California)Juvenile Mental Health CourtsJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Indig, Devon Title: 2009 NSW Young People in Custody Health Survey: Full Report Summary: In 2003, the NSW Department of Juvenile Justice (now Department of Human Services - Juvenile Justice, but referred to in this report as Juvenile Justice), with research and clinical support provided by Justice Health (previously known as Corrections Health Service), conducted the first Young People in Custody Health Survey (YPICHS) among 242 young people. The survey highlighted the social disadvantage, poorer physical and mental health and high prevalence of risk behaviours such as alcohol and drug abuse among participants. The findings from the survey were utilised by Juvenile Justice and Justice Health (who became responsible for the health of young people in custody in February 2003) to guide policy and program development, including providing important evidence to support applications for additional funding. Juvenile Justice and Justice Health worked together to repeat the YPICHS survey in 2009. The primary aim of the 2009 YPICHS was to gain a picture of the health status of young people in juvenile detention across NSW, including monitoring trends in health status and risk factors between 2003 and 2009. The 2009 YPICHS included the following components: • Baseline Survey including a health questionnaire, physical health examination (including blood and urine tests), dental examination, offending behaviour and psychological assessment • Follow-up Surveys at 3, 6 and 12 months • Data linkage over five years for key health and offending data collections This report presents main findings for the baseline survey only, with results presented by gender and Aboriginality. Where possible, comparisons are made with indicators collected in 2003. Future reports will include the findings from the followup surveys and the data linkage study. Details: Sydney: Justice Health and Juvenile Justice, 2011. 224p. Source: Internet Resoruce: Accessed April 16, 2011 at: http://www.justicehealth.nsw.gov.au/publications/YPICHS_full.pdf Year: 2011 Country: Australia URL: http://www.justicehealth.nsw.gov.au/publications/YPICHS_full.pdf Shelf Number: 121371 Keywords: Health CareJuvenile DetentionJuvenile Inmates (Australia)Mental Health Services |
Author: Grace, Jocelyn. Title: Review of Indigenous Offender Health Summary: This review provides an overview of health issues facing the Indigenous offender population, including some of the social and historical factors relevant to Indigenous health and incarceration. In doing so, it is important to first understand how Indigenous people conceptualise health. Health as it is understood in western society is a fairly discrete category, which differs from the traditional Indigenous perspective of health as holistic. This is made explicit in the 1989 National Aboriginal health strategy that states ‘health to Aboriginal peoples is a matter of determining all aspects of their life, including control over their physical environment, of dignity, of community self-esteem, and of justice’. For this reason, considering health in a justice context is of particular relevance to Indigenous people, as the restrictions imposed upon offenders represent a threat to individual and community health. Some of the sources referred to in this review originally used only the term Aboriginal, even though it is evident that in many, if not most, cases the reporting did not differentiate between Australian Aborigines and Torres Strait Islander people. Population figures reveal that substantial numbers of Torres Strait Islanders or people of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent live in all jurisdictions, except the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Therefore, the term Indigenous has been used throughout this review to refer to both the Aboriginal and the Torres Strait Islander populations. This review is largely structured under key topic headings, such as chronic disease or the social determinants of health. Much of the general information about offenders refers to both men and women, and, in some instances, to some juveniles, but specific sections are also devoted to women and juveniles. Details: Mount Lawley, WA: Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet, 2011. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 21, 2011 at: http://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/uploads/docs/offender_health_review_2011.pdf Year: 2011 Country: Australia URL: http://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/uploads/docs/offender_health_review_2011.pdf Shelf Number: 121461 Keywords: Indigenous PeoplesInmates, Health Care (Australia)Mental Health ServicesPrisoners, Health Care |
Author: Dix-Peek, Dominique Title: Profiling Torture II: Addressing Torture and Its Consequences in South Africa Summary: The Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR) is a multi-disciplinary institute whose primary goal is to use its expertise in building reconciliation, democracy and a human rights culture, and in preventing violence in South Africa and other countries in Africa. The Trauma and Transition Programme (TTP) of the CSVR aims to sustain democracy through addressing the issues of unresolved trauma, torture, criminal violence and forced migration through psychosocial support, research and advocacy in South Africa and the continent. TTP was set up in 1989 to offer a free counselling service to victims of political violence. Since the mid-1990s we have seen a shift from political violence to criminal violence within the country. From the late 1990s, TTP began counselling refugees and asylum seekers, individuals and groups from various African countries who had experienced violent conflict in their home countries and/or violence in South Africa. With the support of the Rehabilitation and Research Centre for Torture Victims (RCT), since 2007, TTP has embarked on a project aiming to strengthen the struggle against torture in South Africa and the African region. One of our objectives is to develop a comprehensive Monitoring and Evaluating (M&E) system for the psychosocial services provided to victims of torture. The development of all M&E instruments and the system itself was informed by current theory and achieved through collaboration between clinical staff, researchers, external consultants, and RCT staff. The system has changed over time to accommodate challenges encountered through implementation. As the aims of M&E include the creation of spaces for reflection and learning, it is hoped that this process will help us learn more about our interventions and assist clinicians in improving their services to victims of torture. It also allows us to gather data on victims of torture within our context. A new phase in the project was initiated in 2009 and will run until 2011. This report is one of the outputs under this project. It is the third report of its kind as a 2009 report and a 2010 mid-year report have already been produced. This report looks at 2010 and describes the group of torture clients who received counselling services during this period, although the impact data includes clients up until 2010. After going through a general TTP intake, a client has one session with his/her counsellor in order to provide immediate support and containment, after which a more comprehensive M&E intake is done. After every session, the clinician should complete a counselling Intervention Process Note (IPN) and after every six sessions, the client is asked to complete a self-assessment to assess his/her improvement in function or reduction in symptoms. When counselling ends, the clinician should complete a Termination Intervention Process Note (Termination IPN). This report uses the information obtained through this system by detailing the characteristics of clients who completed an intake assessment in 2010; providing baseline data in terms of the 4 impact that our services have had on clients since the beginning of the project; providing examples of individual Client Progress Reports produced in 2010; describing the drop-out rates for the year, including the reason for drop-out; and outlining the compliance rates achieved in terms of documentation of M&E instruments. Details: Johannesburg, South Africa: Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation, 2010. 52p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 28, 2011 at: http://www.csvr.org.za/docs/csvrrctannual.pdf Year: 2010 Country: South Africa URL: http://www.csvr.org.za/docs/csvrrctannual.pdf Shelf Number: 121565 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesTorture (South Africa)Victims of Crime, Services for |
Author: Mayfield, Jim Title: Multisystemic Therapy Outcomes in an Evidence-Based Practice Pilot Summary: In 2007, the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services established the Thurston-Mason Children’s Mental Health Evidence-Based Practice Pilot Project (Pilot) to provide mental health services to children. The first evidence-based practice selected by the Pilot was Multisystemic Therapy (MST), an intensive family- and community-based treatment program for youth. Over a one-year follow-up period, the Institute examined criminal convictions of youth enrolled in the Pilot’s MST program. Compared to youth with similar criminal histories and demographic characteristics, MST youth were convicted of fewer crimes on average. Due to sample size, statistical significance was not attained in this evaluation of MST outcomes. The effect sizes observed, however, are within the expected range for MST according to other rigorous studies of that intervention and would likely return a net economic benefit to tax payers and crime victims. Details: Olympia, WA: Washington State Institute for Public Policy, 2011. 8p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 9, 2011 at: http://www.wsipp.wa.gov/pub.asp?docid=11-04-3901 Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://www.wsipp.wa.gov/pub.asp?docid=11-04-3901 Shelf Number: 121680 Keywords: Evidence-Based PracticesJuvenile Offenders (Washington State)Mental Health ServicesMultisystemic Therapy |
Author: Morrish, Dawn Title: A Health Needs Assessment of the Hertfordshire Probation Trust Caseload Summary: There is much literature about the health, particularly mental health of prisoners, but very little about the health needs of offenders in the community. Offender Health Care Strategies concluded that offenders in the community would have similar needs to prisoners, mainly physical health, mental health and substance misuse needs. Whereas, at the end of March 2010 there were 85,184 people (80,894 males and 4,290 females) in custody in England and Wales a rise of 2,200 from March 2009. Amongst the remand population, the largest change since March 2009 by offence group was for drugs offences, which were up by 10%. One of the biggest requirements for community orders and suspended sentence orders from Q4 2008-Q4 2009 was for alcohol treatment, up by 13%. Compared to sentenced offenders there were 241,504 offenders being managed in the community by the National Probation Service as at end December, 2009. For Hertfordshire Probation Trust this figure was 3,487 compared to a prison population of 768 at HMP The Mount, Hertfordshire’s Category C male prison. If offender health is to be effectively addressed, the focus needs to widen to address offender health needs rather than emphasis on health care for prisoners. In the community many offenders seem to have difficulty accessing mainstream health services, and tend to overuse Accident and Emergency centres, but have very little provision of preventive health care or health promotion. The physical and mental health care needs of offenders in the criminal justice system have long been subject to calls for reform. Improving outcomes for this group is important both in terms of re-offending rates and successful rehabilitation. Offenders are subject to considerable health inequalities. They are much more likely to experience mental health problems or have a learning difficulty and are more likely to have problems with drugs and alcohol. Details: Hertfordshire, UK: Hertfordshire Probation Trust and National Health Service Hertfordshire, 2011. 41p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 10, 2011 at: http://www.ohrn.nhs.uk/resource/policy/NeedsassessmentHertfordshireProbation.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.ohrn.nhs.uk/resource/policy/NeedsassessmentHertfordshireProbation.pdf Shelf Number: 121693 Keywords: Alcohol AbuseCommunity-based CorrectionsDrug Abuse TreatmentHealth CareMental Health ServicesProbationers (U.K.)RehabilitationSubstance Abuse Treatment |
Author: Orihuela, Michael M. Title: City of St. Louis Jail Diversion Project: Final Evaluation Report Summary: The St. Louis City Jail Diversion Project was developed through a collaborative planning process among criminal justice and community treatment agencies. Through the project, individuals with mental health problems were diverted from the criminal justice system into mental health treatment services. The project was funded through a Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grant from May 2006 to April 2010. Community Alternatives and BJC Behavioral Health, St. Louis City behavioral healthcare providers, provided integrated treatment services combined with best practice approaches for clients involved in the criminal justice system. The Center for Trauma Recovery of the University of Missouri St. Louis provided trauma therapy. Program participants were enrolled in services and asked to participate voluntarily in a longitudinal evaluation of services. The evaluation operated from August 2007 through April 2010. Key highlights of the evaluation report include the following: • Screenings were conducted for 477 individuals. Of these, 167 were screened in and diverted from jail to community mental health treatment. Among those screened out were 129 that met initial screening criteria but for various reasons did not complete the planning process for presentation to the courts; 89 that did not meet legal criteria; and 92 that either did not meet psychiatric criteria, were referred elsewhere, or were released from custody. • The majority (57 percent) of clients in jail diversion programs had severe and persistent mental illness. • A large majority (78 percent) of participants were also identified as having alcohol or drug abuse issues at the time of enrollment. • Of those successfully diverted, 69 percent completed a minimum of 24 weeks of supervision and community-based outpatient treatment services which utilized evidence-based integrated treatment services. • Overall improvement was observed among participants on measures of mental health symptoms (frequency and severity) and daily functioning outcomes at six months and twelve months after entering the program. • Substance use, as reported by participants, declined from 43 percent at baseline to seven percent at six months and 10 percent at twelve months, including similar patterns of improved outcomes for those reporting any alcohol use and alcohol use to intoxication. • Based on initial measures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 60 percent of participants were determined to have probable PTSD at the time of enrollment. A minority (13 percent) received treatment specifically directed at trauma recovery, yet a reduction in PTSD symptoms was observed among the entire population from 60 percent at entry to 39 percent at six months and 28 percent after one year. • Clients in jail diversion program moved to more independent and desirable living situations. Among those interviewed at six months, stable housing had increased from 27 percent to 40 percent, while homelessness had decreased from 24 percent to 3 percent. • Diversion program participants who successfully completed the jail diversion program were significantly less likely to return to the criminal justice system during the 12 months following diversion. In addition, program graduates had better outcomes in other areas including stable housing, enrollment in school and engagement in mental health treatment. Details: St. Louis, MO: Institute of Applied Research, 2010. 38p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 17, 2011 at: http://www.iarstl.org/papers/StLouisJailDiversionReport.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: http://www.iarstl.org/papers/StLouisJailDiversionReport.pdf Shelf Number: 121738 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCommunity TreatmentJail Diversion (St. Louis, MO)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Disability Rights Texas Title: Thinking Outside the Cell: Alternatives to Incarceration for Youth with Mental Illness Summary: Youth with mental illness can suffer devastating consequences from commitment to juvenile justice facilities, where specialized treatment and supports are often insufficient to meet their rehabilitative needs. Given the prevalence of youth with mental health needs in the Texas juvenile justice system, there is a pressing need for the state to develop appropriate and costeffective alternatives to incarceration for this population. Texas has already started to shift its focus and funding in the right direction — toward community-based supports and services. During the 2009 legislative session, state leadership showed visionary support for community-based programming by reducing funding for the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) by $100 million and providing $45.7 million in new funding to juvenile probation departments for Commitment Reduction Programs intended to divert youth from TYC facilities. Many probation departments across the state used these funds to develop mental health resources, and preliminary data show an excellent return on investment. THINKING OUTSIDE THE CELL: ALTERNATIVES TO INCARCERATION FOR YOUTH WITH MENTAL ILLNESS features three case studies of youth placed in the Corsicana Residential Treatment Center, the TYC facility designated for youth with serious mental illness or emotional disturbance. Their stories highlight the significant challenges youth with mental health needs face before and after commitment to TYC. They also demonstrate that access to appropriate and effective community-based mental health services is key to addressing the underlying sources of many youths’ offenses, reducing recidivism, and preventing deeper penetration into the juvenile and criminal justice systems. This report also features numerous effective community-based intervention strategies currently being implemented in Texas and other jurisdictions to reduce the incidence of youth with mental health needs in the juvenile justice system. As Texas continues to transform its juvenile justice system, such model programs will help ensure better outcomes for youth, families and communities. Finally, the report provides policy recommendations concerning youth with mental illness involved in the juvenile justice system. Details: Oakland, CA: National Center for Youth Law, 2011. 17p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 24, 2011 at: http://www.youthlaw.org/fileadmin/ncyl/youthlaw/publications/NCYL-thinking-outside-the-cell-report.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://www.youthlaw.org/fileadmin/ncyl/youthlaw/publications/NCYL-thinking-outside-the-cell-report.pdf Shelf Number: 121822 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCommunity-based CorrectionsJuvenile Offenders (Texas)Juvenile ProbationMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders, JuvenilesRehabilitation |
Author: Berelowitz, Sue Title: 'I Think I Must Have Been Born Bad': Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health of Children and Young People in the Youth Justice System Summary: This report illustrates the importance of addressing the mental health and emotional wellbeing of young people in juvenile detention facilities in the UK. The report is based on a year-long observational study of 19 establishments and services. The report concludes that there is a lack of consistency and wide variation in the type, level and quality of measures put in place to support the emotional wellbeing and good mental health of children in the youth justice system and specifically, in the children and young people’s secure estate. It report recommends that: •children should be placed in units of no more than 150 •staff-child ratios should be small enough to ensure meaningful relationships with key workers •all children should have a health screening assessment on entering custody •re-settlement plans should ensure children are well supported when they leave custody •all children’s prisons should be inspected by an inspectorial body with expertise in inspecting closed institutions. Details: London: Children's Commissioner, 2011. 80p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 28, 2011 at: Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 121885 Keywords: Juvenile CorrectionsJuvenile DetentionJuvenile Justice Systems (U.K.)Juvenile OffendersMental Health Services |
Author: Appleby, Louis Title: The National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness: Suicide and Homicide in Northern Ireland Summary: Suicide is a highly complex issue and continues to present a growing challenge for our society despite strenuous efforts across the statutory, community and voluntary sectors together with inspirational support from bereaved families. The individual circumstances for each person represented in the statistics presented in this report are unique. Nevertheless, to reduce the risk of suicide it is important, where possible, to identify common themes and patterns. We are all aware that people are now facing increasing pressures that can threaten their mental health and wellbeing. Substance misuse is a more common feature of modern life, particularly in areas of social and economic disadvantage; secure employment opportunities are not as plentiful; personal debt is rising; the gap in educational attainment remains; and stable family life is not as dominant a feature in society as it once was. This report demonstrates the link between mental ill health and suicide with the finding that 29% of people who died by suicide had been in contact with mental health services in the previous 12 months. However, this figure also indicates that many people who are suicidal, and therefore likely to have mental health difficulties, are not accessing statutory mental health services. Covering a nine year period from January 2000 to December 2008 during which there were 1,865 suicides and probable suicides in Northern Ireland, the report presents detailed data that looks behind the headline statistics. By presenting a better understanding of these deaths, the report will assist in fine tuning policy and practice for the care of people within mental health services and help to prevent deaths. The remit of the Inquiry also covers homicide by people who have been in contact with mental health services and the report notes that 15% of perpetrators of homicide were confirmed to have been in contact with mental health services in the 12 months before the offence. As with homicide in the general population, in most of these cases the perpetrators and victims were known to each other and, more importantly, none of the “stranger homicides” over the review period was committed by a mental health patient. Perceptions around the issue of serious violence by mental health patients can increase the fear and stigma that mentally ill people encounter. The evidence from this report reinforces the important point of the low risk to the general public from mental health patients which should be highlighted in initiatives to combat stigma. The report highlights areas where practice can be improved and presents a series of recommendations covering policy and practice. Work is already progressing that will help put many of the recommendations in place. This includes: the development of updated policy on suicide prevention and the promotion of positive mental health; the development of the second action plan for implementation of the Bamford Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability; ongoing implementation of the “Card Before You Leave” protocol at Emergency Departments; and work with the Department of Justice to improve support for people with mental illness in the criminal justice system. Overall, the report increases our understanding of the risks of suicide in people with mental illness and of how to respond more effectively to those risks. This will help in taking further action to reduce suicide by people who use mental health services in Northern Ireland. Details: Manchester, UK: University of Manchester, 2011. 112p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 30, 2011 at: http://www.medicine.manchester.ac.uk/mentalhealth/research/suicide/prevention/nci/northern_ireland/northern_ireland_full_report.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.medicine.manchester.ac.uk/mentalhealth/research/suicide/prevention/nci/northern_ireland/northern_ireland_full_report.pdf Shelf Number: 121920 Keywords: HomicideMental Health ServicesMental Illness (Northern Ireland) Mentally Ill OffSuicide |
Author: Jackson, Martin Title: Acquired Brain Injury in the Victorian Prison System Summary: This research set out to gain an understanding of the prevalence of acquired brain injury (ABI) among Victorian prisoners and to test an ABI screening tool to assist with identification of brain injury in this population. The study employed a three-stage process of initial screening, clinical interview and comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. One hundred and ten adult male prisoners and 86 adult female prisoners took part in the initial screen, with 74 males and 43 females completing the neuropsychological assessment. Individuals with an ABI appear to be substantially overrepresented in the Victorian prison population. Comprehensive neuropsychological assessment indicated that 42 per cent of male prisoners and 33 per cent of female prisoners from Stage Three had an ABI. This compares with an estimated prevalence of ABI among the general Australian population of two per cent (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2007). Of prisoners assessed as having an ABI, six per cent of males and seven per cent of females were rated as having a severe ABI, which is consistent with figures for the general population. Drug and alcohol use appeared to be the main cause of ABI among prisoners, while in the general population traumatic head injury is the most common cause. Prisoners also reported substantially higher rates of drug and alcohol use than are typically reported in the community, as well high rates of co-morbid psychiatric conditions. These findings point to the need for a coordinated and multi-disciplinary approach to addressing the therapeutic needs of prisoners with an ABI. The nature of cognitive deficits identified in the current study also suggests that prisoners with a severe ABI are likely to have difficulty functioning in a prison environment, and may require specific assistance from correctional staff as well as altered approaches to the delivery of offending behaviour programs. In light of the study findings, Corrections Victoria is currently developing a comprehensive service model and has also implemented a specialist, multifocused pilot across part of the prison and community correctional service to work with offenders with an ABI. Details: Melbourne: Victoria Department of Justice, 2011. 31p. Source: Internet Resource: Corrections Research Paper Series, Paper No. 04: Accessed July 1, 2011 at: http://www.justice.vic.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/justlib/DOJ+Internet/resources/9/b/9b711080468f099b99d59d4d58beb1dd/Acquired_Brain_Injury_in_the_Victorian_Prison_System.pdf Year: 2011 Country: Australia URL: http://www.justice.vic.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/justlib/DOJ+Internet/resources/9/b/9b711080468f099b99d59d4d58beb1dd/Acquired_Brain_Injury_in_the_Victorian_Prison_System.pdf Shelf Number: 121945 Keywords: Drug Abuse and AdditionDrug OffendersHealth CareInmatesMental Health ServicesPrisoners (Australia) |
Author: Wilkinson, Reginald A., ed. Title: Reentry Best Practices: Directors' Perspectives Summary: This compendium presents reentry best practices that were submitted by member agencies. The submissions are clustered into five substantive areas. They were: (1) Prison Programs; (2) Transitional Programs; (3) Mental Health/Substance Abuse Programs; (4) Community Supervision Strategies; and (5) Promising or Unique Services. Details: Middleton, CT: Association of State Correctional Administrators, 2004. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 8, 2011 at: http://www.asca.net/system/assets/attachments/2075/Reentry_Best_Practices_Publication-1.pdf?1296149357 Year: 2004 Country: United States URL: http://www.asca.net/system/assets/attachments/2075/Reentry_Best_Practices_Publication-1.pdf?1296149357 Shelf Number: 122320 Keywords: Community-based CorrectionsCorrectional ProgramsDrug Abuse TreatmentMental Health ServicesPrisoner Reentry (U.S.)Rehabilitation |
Author: Cummings, Katina Title: Gender Matters: Meeting the Physical and Mental Health Needs of Detained Girls Summary: This report presents the April 2008 policy recommendations to the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center which led to staffing and structural changes. Details: Chicago: Health and Medicine Policy Research Group, 2008. 22p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 3, 2011 at: http://hmprg.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/gendermatters.pdf Year: 2008 Country: United States URL: http://hmprg.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/gendermatters.pdf Shelf Number: 122633 Keywords: Female Juvenile OffendersJuvenile CorrectionsJuvenile Detention Facilities (Chicago)Mental Health Services |
Author: Epperson, Matthew Title: The Next Generation of Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Interventions: Improving Outcomes by Improving Interventions Summary: The over-representation of persons with serious mental illnesses (SMI) in the criminal justice system has been a cause of concern for several decades. In 1972, psychiatrist David Abramson published an article in the American Journal of Psychiatry describing what he referred to as the “criminalization of mentally disordered behavior,” meaning increasing numbers of individuals with SMI who formerly had been state hospital patients were now to be found in jails and prisons. Since that time, numerous studies have been conducted to estimate the prevalence of SMI among criminal justice populations. The first such study was conducted by Teplin and colleagues in Chicago’s Cook County Jail (Teplin, 1990; Teplin, Abram, & McClelland, 1996). Using then state-of-the art epidemiologic techniques, they estimated a prevalence of SMI and co-occurring substance abuse that substantially exceeded the general population rates obtained in the Epidemiologic Catchment Area study (Robins & Regier, 1991). Although prevalence estimates in subsequent studies have varied, a meta-analysis of 62 surveys from 12 countries indicates roughly 14% of persons in the criminal justice system suffer from one or more SMI (Fazel & Danesh, 2002). Some of the most recent research conducted confirms previous estimates; the rate of SMI in five U.S. jails was estimated at 14.5% for male inmates and 31% for female inmates (Steadman, Osher, Robbins, Case, & Samuels, 2009). Based on this body of research, it is estimated that over one million adults with SMI are under correctional supervision, and most are living in the community while being supervised (Ditton, 1999; James & Glaze, 2006). In response to this notable shift of adults with SMI from public sector mental health services to the criminal justice system, numerous programs have been developed to serve people with SMI at many different points within the legal system. These include police training, jail diversion, drug and mental health courts, specialized probation, crisis intervention teams, and others. Although these interventions have developed over more than two decades and focus on various types of criminal justice involvement, we refer to these programs collectively as “first generation interventions.” We characterize these interventions as a group because they are largely united by a singular theme: the reduction or elimination of criminal justice involvement for people with SMI is achieved primarily by providing these individuals with mental health treatment. While some of the first generation interventions have demonstrated efficacy and several have earned recognition as evidence-based practices, a general consensus has emerged that collectively we are not maximizing the effectiveness of first generation interventions (Blitz, Wolff, Pan, & Pogorzelski, 2005; Skeem, Manchak, & Peterson, 2011). This is perhaps best illustrated by the aforementioned range of prevalence studies which, over the course of two decades, do not demonstrate any meaningful reduction in the over-representation of persons with SMI in the U.S. criminal justice system. Additionally, although several of these first generation interventions have made strides in developing collaborative efforts between mental health and criminal justice systems, these interventions tend to exist as primarily “mental health” or “criminal justice” interventions, and as such do not typically reflect integrated philosophies, services, and outcomes. The purpose of this monograph is to suggest ways in which we can build and improve upon first generation interventions and develop the “next generation” of behavioral health and criminal justice interventions — interventions that better address the multiple and complex needs of persons with SMI who are at risk of criminal justice involvement. We begin in section one by describing a variety of first generation interventions, summarizing the literature on their strengths and weaknesses, and illustrating how these interventions are united by a common theme of connecting individuals with mental health services. In section two, we present a complex set of individual and environmental factors contributing to criminal justice involvement to be targeted in the next generation of interventions. These factors are supported by both conceptual and empirical scholarly work, much of which has been conducted by teams represented by the authors of this monograph. Section three presents findings from a web-based survey and workshop discussions with practitioners working with justice-involved persons with SMI conducted by the authors. This section highlights the critically important, but oft-ignored, voices of those working directly with justice-involved persons with SMI, and suggests how their lived experiences in working with this population can inform the next generation of interventions. Finally, in section four, we outline a blueprint for effective change in which we present goals, unifying principles, and key components to shape the next generation of interventions. Much progress has been made in developing a first generation of mental health and criminal justice interventions to better serve persons with SMI who are justice-involved. This first generation of interventions has surely brought a greater recognition and understanding of the disproportionate representation of people with SMI in the criminal justice system. If, however, we are to improve a range of outcomes for this population and ultimately reduce the ranks of people with SMI in the criminal justice system, it would serve us well to critically examine existing interventions, learn from their successes and failures, and use this knowledge to shape a new and improved generation of behavioral health interventions that can achieve the outcomes desired by consumers, providers, and communities. Details: New Brunswick, NJ: Center for Behavioral Health Services and criminal Justice Research, Rutgers University, 2011. 48p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 3, 2011 at: http://cbhs-cjr.rutgers.edu/pdfs/The_next_generation_Monograph_Sept_2011.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://cbhs-cjr.rutgers.edu/pdfs/The_next_generation_Monograph_Sept_2011.pdf Shelf Number: 122972 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.S.) |
Author: Centre for Mental Health Title: Mental Health Care and the Criminal Justice System: Revised and Fully Updated 2011 Summary: The population in custody has soared in the last decade and a significant proportion of those who end up in the criminal justice system have a mental health problem. Responsibility for prison health care lies with the NHS. It aims to give prisoners access to the same quality and range of health services as the general public receives in the community. This is an enormous challenge. Many prisoners have a combination of mental health problems, substance misuse and personality disorder, as well as a range of other issues to deal with. But the costs, both financial and social, of containing people in prison without access to appropriate health care are high. The Government has committed to developing diversion services to identify people with mental health problems in courts and police stations. This is vital to reduce the number of people with mental health difficulties in custody and to improve community services for offenders of all ages. Resettlement and rehabilitation are also essential to improve health and reduce further offending. Help with health, housing and employment make a big difference to offenders’ lives. This briefing paper examines the provision of mental health care for adults in the criminal justice system. It looks at what has been achieved to date and identifies priorities for further work. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2011. 12p. Source: Internet Resource: Briefing 39: Accessed October 6, 2011 at: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/briefing_39_revised.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/briefing_39_revised.pdf Shelf Number: 122996 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.K.) |
Author: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Title: The Health of Ausstralia's Prisoners 2010 Summary: The health of Australia’s prisoners 2010 is the second report relating to the National Prisoner Health Indicators, which were developed to help monitor the health of prisoners, and to inform and evaluate the planning, delivery and quality of prisoner health services. The indicators presented in this report are aligned to the National Health Performance Framework. The results in this second report build on the baseline information from the first National Prisoner Health Census, and this time include some state and territory comparisons. Prisoners in Australia have high rates of mental health related issues. In 2010, 31% of prison entrants reported having ever been told that they had a mental health illness and 16% of prison entrants reported that they were currently taking mental health related medication. On entry to prison, almost one-fifth of prison entrants were referred to the prison mental health services for observation and further assessment following the reception assessment. Almost 1 in 10 prisoners in custody visited the clinic for a psychological or mental health issue, and 1 in 5 prisoners in custody was taking mental health related medication. When looking at the type of medication, 18% of all repeat medication was for depression/mood stabilisers, 9% for antipsychotics, 2% for anti-anxiety medication and 1% for sleep disturbance. Prison entrants in Australia reported previously engaging in various risky health behaviours, such as smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol at extreme levels and using illicit drugs. Four in five prison entrants reported being a current smoker, and three in four reported being a daily smoker. More than half of prison entrants reported drinking alcohol at levels that placed them at risk of alcohol-related harm, while less than twenty per cent reported that they did not drink. Further, two-thirds of prison entrants reported illicit drug use in the previous 12 months. These rates are all substantially higher than in the general community. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prison entrants were significantly over-represented in the entrant’s sample, with 43% being Indigenous, compared with 2.5% of the general population. Indigenous prison entrants reported poorer health behaviours than non-Indigenous prison entrants, and were more likely to be current smokers (89% compared with 79%) and to have consumed alcohol at levels considered to place them at risk of alcohol-related harm (73% compared with 48%) in the previous 12 months. However, Indigenous prison entrants reported lower level of mental health related issues (23% compared with 38%), use of mental health medication upon entry to prison (12% compared with 19%), and chronic conditions. Details: Canberra: AIHW, 2011. 206p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 7, 2011 at: http://www.aihw.gov.au/publication-detail/?id=10737420111&tab=2 Year: 2011 Country: Australia URL: http://www.aihw.gov.au/publication-detail/?id=10737420111&tab=2 Shelf Number: 123007 Keywords: Medical CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrison Health CarePrisoners (Australia) |
Author: Walsh, Nastassia Title: When Treatment is Punishment: The Effects of Maryland's Incompetency to Stand Trial Policies and Practices Summary: In FY2010, the Maryland Mental Hygiene Administration provided 789 pretrial screenings and evaluations for incompetency to stand trial, 77 percent of which were for the District Courts. Baltimore City makes up the largest percentage of screenings and evaluations in the state: 23 percent come from Baltimore, 72 percent of which are for the Baltimore City District Courts. In FY2011, 129 competency screenings were conducted in Baltimore City District Court, 70 percent of which were referred for further evaluation due to the possibility of incompetency to stand trial. At the end of FY2011, two out of every three people (68 percent) in state psychiatric hospitals in Maryland were on forensic status, meaning they were involved in the justice system, either as incompetent to stand trial (IST) or after a finding of “not criminally responsible.” While the total number of people treated in state hospitals in Maryland has decreased 18 percent since FY2006, the number committed as IST increased 113 percent since FY2006, from 163 people to 348 in FY2011. For Spring Grove Hospital Center (Spring Grove), where the majority of IST patients are committed by the Baltimore City District Court, this percentage increase is even greater: the number of people committed as IST increased 335 percent since FY 2006, from 34 people to 148 at the end of FY2011. This increase in the number of forensic IST commitments is happening at the same time that Maryland is diverting civil admissions to private and community hospitals by purchasing beds in those settings, closing state hospitals and reducing beds in many facilities. The reasons for this shift include a belief that most people are more appropriately served in hospitals and outpatient settings located in their own communities, and for cost-containment purposes. However, due to the increasing numbers of forensic patients, including IST patients, state hospitals are still operating at or above capacity. Increasing commitments by the courts and increasing lengths of stay for people who are committed puts intense pressure on Maryland to continue operating at current state hospital bed capacity, and perhaps even consider expanding. During the 2011 legislative session, the budget committee of the Maryland General Assembly reallocated $200,000 from the general fund appropriation made to support the operations of the state hospitals for Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) to use for an independent study on (a) potential demand for state hospital capacity, including the maximum appropriate use of community-based alternatives; and (b) best practices for facility operations, including building size and configuration; and (c) appropriate site locations based on future demand. An accurate analysis of future need for state hospital beds cannot be made without close scrutiny of the legitimacy of current use of beds by the courts, particularly the rapidly increasing IST population. As Spring Grove alone saw a 335 percent increase in IST patients, examining court practices— especially those of the Baltimore City District Court, which makes up the majority of IST commitments to Spring Grove—is necessary to make sure courts are using IST commitments appropriately and effectively. Details: Washington, DC: Justice Policy Institute, 2011. 44p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 17, 2011 at: http://www.justicepolicy.org/uploads/justicepolicy/documents/when_treatment_is_punishment-full_report.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://www.justicepolicy.org/uploads/justicepolicy/documents/when_treatment_is_punishment-full_report.pdf Shelf Number: 123012 Keywords: Competence to Stand TrialMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Maryland) |
Author: Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law Title: Lifelines: Linking to Federal Benefits for People Exiting Corrections Summary: This three volume set offers state and local officials and corrections administrators a blueprint for linking inmates of jails and prisons who have psychiatric disabilities to federal benefits promptly upon their release back into the community. The text walks users through steps for aligning the complex rules of federal benefit programs to state and local policies in order to create a system of services and support for released inmates. A plan for action at the facility level lists steps that administrators can take within existing rules to address re-entry issues for inmates with psychiatric disabilities. Volume 1 makes the case for action. Volume 2 details what state and local governments and corrections facilities need to do to enable incarcerated individuals with mental illnesses to access essential benefits and services upon release. Volume 3 is an appendix with resource materials and links to online sources. Details: Washington, DC: Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, 2009. 110p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 21, 2011 at: http://www.bazelon.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=-_dbVoVTKis%3d&tabid=104 Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: http://www.bazelon.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=-_dbVoVTKis%3d&tabid=104 Shelf Number: 123075 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.S.)Prisoner Reentry |
Author: Leschied, Alan W. Title: The Treatment of Incarcerated Mentally Disordered Women Offenders: A Synthesis of Current Research Summary: This synthesis of the research evidence in relation to the treatment of mentally disordered women offenders is prompted by recent reviews of correctional practice in the Canadian federal correctional system, and the growing awareness of the impact research can have on programs for women within the correctional system. Women offenders, in part as a function of their pre incarceration histories, will display more elevated risky behaviours as expressed through aggression, self-injury and multiple emotion-related disorders. With sex-specific programming and research-informed practice along with support for training in the context of providing adequate resources, correctional practice can have a positive impact both in the institutional management of behaviour as well as with longer-term positive outcomes. However, research also indicates that without the guide of informed practice and staff support, correctional practice tends to resort to traditional punitive measures such as the use of segregation as a means of managing the challenging and high-risk behaviours of mentally disordered women offenders. Details: Ottawa: Public Safety Canada, 2011. 26p. Source: Internet Resource: Corrections Research: User Report 2011-03: Accessed October 25, 2011 at: http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/res/cor/rep/_fl/2011-03-imdwo-eng.pdf Year: 2011 Country: Canada URL: http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/res/cor/rep/_fl/2011-03-imdwo-eng.pdf Shelf Number: 123139 Keywords: Female InmatesFemale Offenders (Canada)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Brooker, Charlie Title: Trends in self-inflicted deaths and self-harm in prisons in England and Wales (2001-2008): In search of a new research paradigm Summary: No one would dispute that offenders, whether in prison or elsewhere in the criminal justice system, are an alienated group where it would be predicted that self-inflicted deaths (SIDs) rates are higher than for the general population. This paper will examine recent trends in SIDs and self-harm in English and Welsh prisons and discuss the implications of such data for future research across the whole offender pathway in England and Wales. Details: Lincoln, United Kingdom: The Criminal Justice and Health Group, University of Lincoln, 2010. 19p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed in January 26, 2012 at http://www.lincoln.ac.uk/cjmh/SIDS%20and%20Self%20harm%20pub%20Lincoln.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.lincoln.ac.uk/cjmh/SIDS%20and%20Self%20harm%20pub%20Lincoln.pdf Shelf Number: 123780 Keywords: Deaths in CustodyMental Health ServicesPrison AdministrationSelf-Injury, Inmates (U.K.)Suicide |
Author: Australia. VicHealth. Title: Preventing violence against women in Australia. Addressing the social and economic determinants of mental and physical health Summary: While the overall health of world populations is improving, there are significant factors that continue to impact on our mental and physical health. How much you earn, your social position, your level of education and your capacity to be involved in activities that help connect you to others in your community are important factors in determining your health status (VicHealth 2009). In acknowledgement of the social and economic factors affecting the health of the population and sub-populations, VicHealth has established a focus on increasing social and economic participation as a key priority area for action during 2009–13. Our objectives in this area are to: 1. increase participation in physical activity; 2. increase opportunities for social connection; 3. reduce race-based discrimination and promote diversity; 4. prevent violence against women by increasing participation in respectful relationships; 5. build knowledge to increase access to economic resources. This research summary presents a synopsis of the latest published research examining violence against women in Australia and its prevention. This summary focuses on: the extent of violence against women; population groups at risk; the health, economic and other consequences of the problem; factors that underlie and contribute to violence against women; themes for action to prevent violence against women from happening in the first place. Details: Australia: Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, 2011. 12p. Source: Research summary. Internet Resource: Accessed February 12, 2012 at http://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/~/media/ResourceCentre/PublicationsandResources/PVAW/VH_VAW%20Research%20Summary_Nov2011.ashx Year: 2011 Country: Australia URL: http://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/~/media/ResourceCentre/PublicationsandResources/PVAW/VH_VAW%20Research%20Summary_Nov2011.ashx Shelf Number: 124093 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesViolence Against Women (Australia) |
Author: Sedlak, Andrea J. Title: Youth's Needs and Services: Findings from the Survey of Youth in Residential Placement Summary: The Survey of Youth in Residential Placement (SYRP) is the third component in the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s constellation of surveys providing updated statistics on youth in custody in the juvenile justice system. It joins the Census of Juveniles in Residential Placement and the Juvenile Residential Facility Census, which are biennial mail surveys of residential facility administrators conducted in alternating years. SYRP is a unique addition, gathering information directly from youth through anonymous interviews. This bulletin series reports on the first national SYRP, covering its development and design and providing detailed information on the youth’s characteristics, backgrounds, and expectations; the conditions of their confinement; their needs and the services they receive; and their experiences of victimization in placement. This bulletin describes key findings from the first Survey of Youth in Residential Placement about the needs and service experiences of youth in custody. SYRP surveyed youth about their psychological state, substance abuse problems, their needs, and the services their facilities pro-vided to them. Specifically, this bulletin details youth reports regarding: their overall emotional and psychological problems and the counseling they receive in custody; their substance abuse problems prior to entering custody and the substance abuse counseling they receive in their facility; their medical needs and services; their educational background and the educational services the facility provides to them. SYRP’s findings are based on interviews with a nationally representative sample of 7,073 youth in custody during spring 2003, using audio computer-assisted self-interview methodology. Researchers analyzed youth’s answers and assessed differences among subgroups of youth offenders in custody based on their age, gender, and placement program (i.e., detention, corrections, community-based, camp, or residential treatment facilities). When other studies offered corresponding data about youth in the general population, analysts compared these data to the SYRP results for youth in custody. For more information, see the sidebar “Surveying Youth in Residential Placement: Methodology.” Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2010. 12p. Source: OJJDP Juvenile Justice Bulletin: Internet Resource: Accessed February 12, 2012 at https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/227728.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United States URL: https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/227728.pdf Shelf Number: 124101 Keywords: EducationJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesResidential Treatment CentersSubstance Abuse |
Author: Bell, James Title: Non-Judicial Drivers into the Juvenile Justice System for Youth of Color Summary: Executive Director of the Burns Institute James Bell authored a new report, Non-Judicial Drivers into the Juvenile Justice System for Youth of Color. Originally prepared for the California Endowment's Boys & Men of Color Initiative, the report discusses the negative impacts incarceration can have on a young person's psyche as well as their physical health. The report also discusses how a lack of access to proper medical care and a lack of knowledge in the justice field of trauma-informed alternatives disproportionately drive youth of color into the juvenile justice system. Details: San Francisco, CA: W. Haywood Burns Institute, 20. 12p. Source: Prepared for The California Endowment's Boys & Men of Color Initiative: Internet Resource: Accessed February 19, 2012 at http://www.burnsinstitute.org/downloads/Non-Judicial%20drivers%20report_fin.pdf Year: 0 Country: United States URL: http://www.burnsinstitute.org/downloads/Non-Judicial%20drivers%20report_fin.pdf Shelf Number: 124192 Keywords: Juvenile Justice SystemJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMinority Groups |
Author: Haines, A. Title: Evaluation of the Youth Justice Liaison and Diversion (YJLD) Pilot Scheme: Final Report Summary: In 2007 the Department commissioned a pilot programme of six pilot schemes for improvement in health provision within the youth justice system and provision of help for children and young people Getting it right for children, young people and families with a range of health needs including mental health and developmental problems, speech and communication difficulties, learning disabilities. These young people were screened for health needs, supported into services, and where possible diverted away from the formal youth justice system. The pilot programme was managed in partnership with the Centre for Mental Health and pilot schemes were based in Lewisham, Halton and Warrington, Peterborough, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelesa, South Tees and Wolverhampton. Liverpool University was commissioned to produce an independent academic evaluation of the pilots, to measure their effectiveness in improving health and reduce offending behaviour. The final report, published in March 2012, will inform the National Liaison and Diversion Programme, as part of the Government’s commitment, to ensure that liaison and diversion services for all ages should be available on a national basis from 2014. Details: Liverpool, U.K.: University of Liverpool, 2012. 201p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 21, 2012 at: http://www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/@dh/@en/documents/digitalasset/dh_133007.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/@dh/@en/documents/digitalasset/dh_133007.pdf Shelf Number: 124627 Keywords: Juvenile DiversionJuvenile Offenders (U.K.)Learning DisabilitiesMental Health Services |
Author: Henry, Kelli Title: Mental Health Services for Justice-Involved Youth: A Process and Outcome Evaluation of QUEST Futures Summary: QUEST Futures began operations in October 2008 as a demonstration project designed to meet the mental health needs of justice-involved youth in Queens, New York. The program was established by the Center for Court Innovation in collaboration with the New York City Office of the Criminal Justice Coordinator, the Queens Family Court, the New York City Departments of Probation and Health and Mental Hygiene, and other juvenile justice and mental health stakeholders. Researchers from the Center for Court Innovation conducted an evaluation covering the program’s planning process, which began in 2003, and its first 24 months of operations, from October 2008 through September 2010. The evaluation was designed to assess the planning process; describe key features of the program’s model; and present six in-depth case studies as well as quantitative data on participant characteristics and outcomes. Details: New York: Center for Court Innovation, 2012. 103p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 1, 2012 at: http://www.courtinnovation.org/sites/default/files/documents/Mental_Health_Services_Youth.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.courtinnovation.org/sites/default/files/documents/Mental_Health_Services_Youth.pdf Shelf Number: 125109 Keywords: Juvenile Offenders (New York)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Senior, Jane Title: Liaison and Diversion Services: Current Practices and Future Directions Summary: Liaison and diversion services designed to divert people with mental illness away from the criminal justice system have proliferated in England and Wales over the last twenty years. They are universally regarded to be a “good thing”, but there is no robust body of research evidence to support the belief that they improve the health, social and criminal outcomes of people who are in contact with them. Current government policy supports the continued development of liaison and diversion services if they can prove a significant contribution to reducing criminal recidivism and improvements to both individual and public health. Offender Health at the Department of Health commissioned the Offender health Research Network to review current practices around liaison and diversion and make a number of recommendations for future service development. We concluded that liaison and diversion schemes provide a service for clients who are currently not always well served by mainstream health and social services, but there appear to be opportunities for service improvement through a standardisation of approach; a national model of practice; improved data collection; and more consideration to the conduct of ongoing evaluations into service impact and outcomes. Details: Manchester, UK: Offender Health Research Network, Centre for Mental Health Risk, 2011. 65p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 2, 2012 at: http://www.networks.nhs.uk/nhs-networks/health-and-criminal-justice-liaison-and-diversion/documents/OHRN%20L-%20D%20Report%20-%20Nov%202011.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.networks.nhs.uk/nhs-networks/health-and-criminal-justice-liaison-and-diversion/documents/OHRN%20L-%20D%20Report%20-%20Nov%202011.pdf Shelf Number: 125126 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders, Diversion |
Author: Senior, Jane Title: Alternatives to Custody for People with Mental Health Problems Summary: Current government policy is working toward the reduction of short term custodial sentencing where suitable community alternatives exist which both suitably and appropriately punish offenders and reduce the likelihood of re-offending. The Offender Health Research Network was commissioned by Offender Health at the Department of Health to examine the impact of a potential change in sentencing practices in terms of health and criminal justice services‟ responses to people with mental health problems who are in contact with the criminal justice system, making recommendations for improving current service provision. We conclude that the Mental Health Treatment Requirement, available as part of the Community Order, has not been fully adopted by sentencers or mental health and criminal justice service professionals as a mechanism through which to better engage mentally ordered offenders with treatment services. The reasons for this are discussed and we suggest a number of adaptations to the current legislation and associated working practices which are designed to increase the uptake of, and benefits from, the Requirement. Details: Manchester, UK: Offender Health Research Network, Centre for Mental Health and Risk, 2011. 48p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 2, 2012 at: http://www.networks.nhs.uk/nhs-networks/health-and-criminal-justice-liaison-and-diversion/documents/OHRN%20-%20Alternatives%20to%20Custody%20Report%20-%20Dec%202011.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.networks.nhs.uk/nhs-networks/health-and-criminal-justice-liaison-and-diversion/documents/OHRN%20-%20Alternatives%20to%20Custody%20Report%20-%20Dec%202011.pdf Shelf Number: 125130 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.K.) |
Author: Bingham, Elizabeth Title: Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading? Canada’s Treatment of Federally-sentenced Women with Mental Health Issues Summary: The inquest into the 2007 death of Ashley Smith while in federal custody has been repeatedly delayed, but the issues that Ms. Smith’s death raises remain pressing. At its most basic level, Ms. Smith died due to the state’s conviction that solitary confinement is a legitimate response to mental illness, coupled with systemic discrimination against federally sentenced women who have inadequate mental health treatment and community support. Ms. Smith’s death should have been a wakeup call for Canada but, instead, nearly five years and at least four major reports later, Canada has shown absolutely no willingness to address human rights violations against FSW with mental health issues. This report is the culmination of a 20-month research project spearheaded by the International Human Rights Program (IHRP) at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law. It details Canada’s treatment of FSW with mental health issues, and analyzes this treatment through the lens of international human rights law. Our research indicates that the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) responds to FSW with mental health issues in a discriminatory manner. CSC equates mental health issues with increased risk and responds with excessive use of segregation (sometimes for months at a time), repeated institutional transfers (sometimes over ten times in a year), and use of force (including restraints). This treatment is exacerbated by a lack of adequate mental health care resources for FSW and training for prison staff. We find that CSC’s treatment of FSW with mental health issues is a violation of their rights under international law. Canada’s treatment of FSW with mental health issues is discriminatory; results in an unjustified deprivation of liberty without judicial oversight; violates the right to health; and, in cases where women are segregated for long periods or subject to excessive institutional transfers, constitutes cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. Moreover, CSC’s refusal to provide us with basic statistics and information about the treatment of FSW with mental health issues constitutes a further violation of the CRPD. Details: Toronto: University of Toronto, Faculty of Law, International Human Rights Program, 2012. 74p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 17, 2012 at: http://tinyurl.com/6psz4qr Year: 2012 Country: Canada URL: http://tinyurl.com/6psz4qr Shelf Number: 125339 Keywords: Female InmatesFemale Prisoners (Canada)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Anderson, Sarah Title: Big Diversion Project Current State Analysis of Diversion Services in the North East Region – Final Report Summary: This report forms part of the North East’s Big Diversion Project. It outlines findings from an analysis of current regional provision of ‘diversion’ services for those with mental health problems or learning disabilities. As well as the six Criminal Justice Liaison and Diversion (CJLD) in the region, the research also considered a range of other practice and provision for the identification and support of those with mental health problems or learning disabilities across the criminal justice pathway. Research involved interviews with regional stakeholders and national experts, focus groups, surveys and an analysis of documentary evidence and available data. Regional provision and key issues are mapped across the criminal justice pathway and overarching themes for service development were identified. CJLD services need to extend their coverage geographically, across the pathway and in terms of operational hours. They need to provide a broader response by opening up care pathways into a wider range of services. Courts need increased support and information from CJLD services to inform decision making. Responses to mental health crisis in the community require improvement through improved joint working between police and health agencies. There is poor awareness of service provision and referral pathways among a range of agencies. Data collection and monitoring requires significant improvement to inform service development. Finally, responses to learning disability, autism and related conditions need to be improved across the criminal justice pathway. The research also maps regional provision for service user involvement across a range of services that might be utilised in forthcoming work and a financial analysis of the potential impact of particular service changes is provided. Details: London: Revolving Doors Agency, 2012. 243p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 29, 2012 at: http://www.revolving-doors.org.uk/documents/final-report-bdp/ Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.revolving-doors.org.uk/documents/final-report-bdp/ Shelf Number: 125334 Keywords: Diversion from the Criminal Justice SystemLearning DisabilitiesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.K.) |
Author: Forsythe, Lubica Title: Mental Disorder Prevalence at the Gateway to the Criminal Justice System Summary: Many criminal justice practitioners have observed that offenders experience poor mental health. While international studies have found mental health to be poorer among prisoners than in the general population, less information is available either about offenders who are not imprisoned or alleged offenders detained by police. The mental health of offenders is of key policy interest from both health service and crime prevention perspectives. This is the first Australian study to measure the prevalence of mental disorder among offenders nationally, using information provided by 690 police detainees who participated in the Australian Institute of Criminology’s Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) program. Around half reported having been diagnosed with a mental disorder in the past. The study was also the first to use the Corrections Mental Health Screen (CMHS), an instrument validated for gender-specific screening, on an Australian offender population. Results suggest that almost half of detainees may have a diagnosable mental disorder at the time of arrest, including 42 percent of women and 28 percent of men with no previous diagnosis. In the routine screening of police detainees as they enter the criminal justice system, the CMHS could be used to identify for the first time those who would benefit from psychological assessment and appropriate intervention. Details: Canberra: Australian Institute of Criminology, 2012. 8p. Source: Internet Resource: Trends & Issues in Crime and Criminal Justice No. 438: Accessed July 11, 2012 at: http://www.aic.gov.au/documents/8/6/8/%7B868E2162-6E92-4028-BF27-50A8D4FB1B04%7Dtandi438_001.pdf Year: 2012 Country: Australia URL: http://www.aic.gov.au/documents/8/6/8/%7B868E2162-6E92-4028-BF27-50A8D4FB1B04%7Dtandi438_001.pdf Shelf Number: 125544 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Australia) |
Author: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Title: The Mental Health of Prison Entrants in Australia, 2010 Summary: This bulletin presents results from the 2010 National Prisoner Health Census, and focuses on the associations between mental health and a range of characteristics and behaviours reported by prison entrants. Generally, prison entrants with mental health issues have relatively poor socioeconomic and health characteristics and are more likely to engage in risky health behaviours. They also are more likely to use prison health services and use them more frequently. Mental health issues are common among prison entrants - In 2010, 31% of prison entrants reported that they had been told by a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist or nurse that they had a mental health disorder (including drug and alcohol abuse) in their lifetime. This is about 2.5 times higher than the general population (ABS 2010). Sixteen per cent of prison entrants were currently on medication for a mental health disorder and 14% reported experiencing very high levels of distress. Prison entrants with a mental health disorder have relatively poor socioeconomic and health characteristics - Compared with entrants without a history of a mental health disorder and the general population, prison entrants with a history of a mental health disorder have poorer socioeconomic and health characteristics. Two out of five prison entrants in Australia with a mental health disorder did not complete Year 10 at school and 2 out of 3 were either unemployed or unable to work due to disability, age or condition. Further, this group had extensive criminal histories, with about 1 in 3 having been incarcerated 5 or more times in an adult prison. Also, half of this group had received a head injury that resulted in a loss of consciousness or blacking out. Prison entrants with a mental health disorder are more likely to report risky health behaviours - Many prison entrants in Australia report engaging in risky health behaviours such as illicit drug use, drinking alcohol at extreme levels and smoking tobacco. Some of these behaviours are even more extensive in prison entrants currently taking medication for a mental health disorder than those not taking medication. Three in 4 prison entrants currently taking medication for a mental health disorder have used illicit drugs in the last 12 months, more than half consumed alcohol at risky levels and nearly 90% smoked. A high proportion of prison entrants with mental health issues accessed mental health services at the prison clinic - More than half of prison entrants who experienced very high psychological distress in the past 4 weeks were referred to a prison mental health clinic. Further, about a third of prison entrants taking medication for a mental health disorder visited the clinic for a mental health issue and nearly half (48%) of this group visited the clinic 3 or more times during the 2-week National Prisoner Health Census. Details: Sydney: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2012. 24p. Source: Internet Resource: Bulletin 104: Accessed July 17, 2012 at: http://www.aihw.gov.au/publication-detail/?id=10737422201 Year: 2012 Country: Australia URL: http://www.aihw.gov.au/publication-detail/?id=10737422201 Shelf Number: 125634 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Australia)Mentally Ill Prisoners |
Author: Byng, Richard Title: COCOA: Care for Offenders, Continuity of Access. Summary: The project aims to inform policy on improving health and reducing recidivism for offenders by examining access to, and continuity of, healthcare for people in contact with criminal justice agencies. Focus: The project has investigated the impact of health and criminal justice agencies on access and continuity of care. We carried out a multi-method investigation into the continuity of healthcare for offenders; interviewed 200 offenders; carried out 8 organisational case studies; developed a peer offender research group; and developed theory related to offender continuity of care. Key findings: Access and continuity of care for mental health problems was very low in comparison with care for substance misuse. Bothe the organisation of services and also offenders' beliefs and priorities contribute to poor engagement with initial and on-going mental health care. However, models of good practice can be found in isolated pockets across the UK. It is recomended that services for mental health care are best positioned in probation and as individuals leave prison in order to maximise chances of sustained engagement. The study population (prisoners and probationers), were predominantly male, white, skewed to 18-25 age range. Many had partners and children. 23% were employed and 20% homeless. Twenty seven percent had been in prison more than five times. Within the previous six months 37% rated their current health as poor. Fifty three percent reported drug misuse, 36% alcohol misuse, 15% severe and 59% moderate mental health problems. Only 4% believed they had no physical problems. Co-morbidity was typical. The majority of offenders were happy for health services to know about their CJS contact (79%), were willing to share medical information between services (82%), and preferred one person to have an overview of all their healthcare needs (81%). There were significantly more healthcare contacts in probation than in other CJS settings; predominantly for heroin, dependence forming 40% of all health contacts. However for physical problems, healthcare contact rates were significantly higher for prison when compared to other CJS settings. Overall contact rates for mental health problems were low, particularly for those without heroin misuse. Treatment recommended by health services for current health issues across the whole sample was received for the majority of dependency related (74%) and physical health (71%) problems, but for only 50% of the mental health problems reported. Participants in prison rated the quality of their healthcare contacts as significantly lower than in other contexts. Quality was rated higher for drug and mental health services. Participant reports and healthcare records of healthcare contacts were similar. Generally, participants recall was better for substance misuse services than others. Details: London: NIHR (National Institute for Health Research), 2012. 265p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 19, 2012 at: https://wombat.pcmd.ac.uk/document_manager/documents/files/primary_care/cocoa/COCOA_FINAL_REPORT.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://wombat.pcmd.ac.uk/document_manager/documents/files/primary_care/cocoa/COCOA_FINAL_REPORT.pdf Shelf Number: 125682 Keywords: Health CareMental Health ServicesPrisoners (U.K.)PrisonsProbationersRecidivism |
Author: Parsons, Jim Title: Closing the Gap: Using Criminal Justice and Public Health Data to Improve the Identification of Mental Summary: This report describes findings from the Vera Institute of Justice’s District of Columbia Forensic Health Project—a study of the mental health needs of people arrested in the District of Columbia designed to fill a gap in the available information on this high-need and underserved population. The project was developed by Vera’s Substance Use and Mental Health Program (SUMH) to provide criminal justice and health agencies with information to improve the delivery of mental health services to people involved in the criminal justice system in the District of Columbia (referred to as “DC” throughout this report). The identification and treatment of people with mental health needs who are involved with the criminal justice system is an ongoing priority in DC, as demonstrated by the establishment of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council’s Substance Abuse Treatment and Mental Health Services Integration Taskforce (SATMHSIT) in 2006. The findings of this study support the strategic recommendations of the task force and the work of individual health and justice agencies by providing the most comprehensive quantitative assessment to date of the mental health needs of people arrested in DC. The study uses administrative data supplied by five government agencies to track criminal justice system involvement and markers of psychiatric need for a cohort of 2,874 people arrested by the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia (MPD) during June 2008. In addition to the arrest data provided by MPD, the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the District of Columbia (CSOSA), the District of Columbia Department of Corrections (DOC), the District of Columbia Department of Mental Health (DMH) and the Pretrial Services Agency for the District of Columbia (PSA) provided client-specific data describing contacts with members of the study cohort between 2006 and 2011.1 This is the first time that records from these agencies have been combined into an aggregate dataset. Vera researchers calculated rates of mental illness based on the indicators of psychiatric need provided by each of the agencies (for example, formal diagnosis, or contact with specialized mental health supervision teams) for the study cohort. They sought to answer two basic questions: >>Which people arrested in DC have mental health needs? >>When this population comes into contact with local and relevant federal criminal justice agencies, do these agencies recognize their mental health needs?2 The research had three goals: to inform ongoing initiatives in DC seeking to improve access to treatment services; to support the design of new policies and programs; and to provide a baseline against which to measure the effectiveness of new initiatives. The key study findings include: >>About 33 percent of adult DC residents arrested during June 2008 had some indication of mental health need in partner agency records between 2006 and 2011. >>Many of those arrested with mental health needs were not known to community mental health care providers. Most of the cohort members who had mental health needs (83 percent) were known to at least one criminal justice agency as having such a need between 2006 and 2011. Yet the Department of Mental Health knew about only 59 percent of the cohort members who had mental health needs during that same period. 3 >>Criminal justice agencies often failed to identify the mental health needs of the people that they encountered. Six hundred sixty-six cohort members with mental health needs came into contact with probation, pretrial services, or the jail as a result of the June 2008 arrest; however, almost half (46 percent) of this group was not identified as having a mental health need by any of the agencies during those contacts. >>Thirty-three percent of the cohort members known to the Department of Mental Health as having a psychotic spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder were not identified by any of the criminal justice agencies; rates of identification of mental health need by the criminal justice agencies were even lower for people with other diagnoses, such as depression and anxiety disorders. The report concludes with a series of recommendations aimed at increasing rates of identification of mental health problems by DMH and criminal justice agencies in DC. Details: New York: Vera Institute of Justice, 2012. 58p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 27, 2012 at: http://www.vera.org/download?file=3544/closing-the-gap-report.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.vera.org/download?file=3544/closing-the-gap-report.pdf Shelf Number: 125791 Keywords: Drug OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.S.)Substance Abuse Treatment |
Author: Kinscherff, Robert Title: A Primer for Mental Practitioners Working With Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System Summary: Many mental health practitioners were trained in programs or at a time when very little attention was paid during the course of training to youth involved in the juvenile justice system. For a variety of reasons, general clinical training does not ordinarily equip a mental health practitioner to operate within the juvenile justice context. Practitioners who have been trained within more recently developed programs with a “forensic” emphasis may be more familiar with adults within the criminal justice system than with juveniles, more focused upon technical assessments, such as competency to stand trial, than upon youth-specific developmental and functional assessments, or relatively unfamiliar with the emerging literature regarding youth with mental health needs who have had contact with the juvenile justice system or penetrated to its deeper end programs. This paper provides an overview for mental health practitioners who provide professional services to youth who are involved with the juvenile justice system. This overview emphasizes emerging research and practices, the emerging conceptualization of trauma and its implications for youth involved with the juvenile justice system, and implications for policy and practice.While primarily intended for mental health professionals working within system of care communities or interested in developing a system of care collaboration in their area, this paper is relevant for any mental health practitioner providing professional services to youth involved or at risk of involvement in the juvenile justice system. It is also relevant for juvenile court and juvenile justice professionals whose work brings them into contact with youth with significant mental health needs. Details: Washington, DC: Technical Assistance Partnership for Child and Family Mental Health, 2012. 28p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 1, 2012 at http://www.tapartnership.org/docs/jjResource_mentalHealthPrimer.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.tapartnership.org/docs/jjResource_mentalHealthPrimer.pdf Shelf Number: 125833 Keywords: Juvenile JusticeMental Health ServicesMental Health, Juveniles |
Author: O'Connell, Fiona Title: Prisoners and Mental Health Summary: This paper is a scoping paper on issues concerning prisoners with mental health problems. Section 1 sets out the structure of the paper, outlining the content of the sections. Section 2 of the paper provides statistics, highlighting the prevalence of mental illness in the criminal justice system. Section 3 of the paper sets out the legal framework governing the admission into hospital, detention and treatment of individuals subject to criminal proceedings or under sentence. The section identifies some gaps in the legislation, in particular that the legal framework does not include personality disorder within its scope. The Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland comments that this has implications for prisons who are coping with too many personality disordered offenders. Section 4 of the paper provides information on initiatives, services and policy developments in relation to mental health and prisons. The section highlights that there have been a number of positive developments indicating an awareness of the links between mental health and offending including a diversion scheme in Musgrave Street police station, the transfer of responsibility of healthcare to the health service, policy developments on vulnerable women offenders and a consultation seeking views on community sentences. Section 5 of the paper considers research reports focusing specifically on mental health and criminal justice. The reports identify a number of issues that need to be addressed including the need for more diversion schemes, problems in information exchange between the agencies, lack of high secure facilities for the most dangerously disordered offenders, inadequate services in the community and in prisons, the need for a therapeutic environment for women offenders, and a lack of hostel accommodation for low risk offenders who require support in release. The section also identified resettlement problems for offenders with mental health issues. Section 6 of the paper highlights a number of initiatives for other jurisdictions. These include court diversion schemes in England and Wales and Australia, mental health courts in the United States and a prison in-reach and court liaison scheme in the Republic of Ireland. These schemes have had positive outcomes in diverting offenders to appropriate health services and reducing offending rates. In some jurisdictions such as Canada, diversion is used for minor offences and not violent offences. The Republic of Ireland scheme targets remand prisoners. Section 7 of the paper makes concluding remarks and highlights key issues for further consideration. Details: Belfast: Northern Ireland Assembly, 2011. 34p. Source: Internet Resource: Research and Library Service Research Paper: Accessed September 1, 2012 at: http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/Documents/RaISe/Publications/2011/Justice/4611.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/Documents/RaISe/Publications/2011/Justice/4611.pdf Shelf Number: 126179 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Northern Ireland)Mentally Ill Prisoners |
Author: Royal College of Psychiatrists Title: Prison Transfers: A Survey from the Royal College of Psychiatrists Summary: In his review of people with mental health problems and intellectual disabilities in the criminal justice system, Lord Bradley highlighted unacceptable delays in transferring acutely unwell prisoners to hospital. He recommended the government develop a new minimum target for the National Health Service (NHS) of 14 days to transfer a prisoner with acute, severe mental illness to an appropriate healthcare setting. The Department of Health is currently working to identify some of the key barriers that have an impact on timely transfers. The Royal College of Psychiatrists consulted with its members who work within prisons and secure healthcare settings across England and Wales. The purpose of this consultation was to explore the issues around prison transfers (Section 47 and Section 48 of the Mental Health Act 1983) with the view to: 1 gauging whether a national 14-day transfer target was considered reasonable 2 identifying key barriers and possible solutions to timely prison transfers. This consultation concentrated on a number of key areas within the prison transfer process including assessments, information-sharing, bed management, remittance and commissioning. Although a clear majority of psychiatrists agree that 14 days is a reasonable target to transfer a prisoner with acute, severe mental illness to an appropriate healthcare setting to secure treatment as quickly as possible, there were some reservations about how this could practically be achieved. Many of the problems identified as contributing to the delays in the prison transfer process appear to be administrative, such as information-sharing, poor communication, etc. However, these administrative problems can lead to significant cumulative inefficiencies within the system, which can be costly and result in delays. The consultation was designed to elicit problems and barriers associated with the prison transfer process and did not explore why psychiatrists thought the target was reasonable, or why they did not think provider assessments were always necessary. So although the majority considered the target reasonable, their reasons were not given. This is an area of great concern for many psychiatrists who participated in this consultation. Therefore, a follow-up questionnaire explored these issues with some participants and their responses are included here. The College would like to build on this work and explore further some of the issues raised as a result of this consultation. Details: London: Royal College of Psychiatrists, 2011. 58p. Source: Internet Resource: Occasional Paper OP81: Accessed September 27, 2012 at: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/pdf/PRISON%20TRANSFERS%20OP81.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/pdf/PRISON%20TRANSFERS%20OP81.pdf Shelf Number: 126483 Keywords: Health CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners (U.K.) |
Author: Osher, Fred Title: Adults with Behavioral Health Needs under Correctional Supervision: A Shared Framework for Reducing Recidivism and Promoting Recovery Summary: The large numbers of adults with behavioral health disorders (mental illnesses, substance use disorders, or both) who are arrested and convicted of criminal offenses pose a special challenge for correctional and health administrators responsible for their confinement, rehabilitation, treatment, and supervision. As corrections populations have grown, the requirements for correctional facilities to provide health care to these inmates has stretched the limits of their budgets and available program personnel. They often lack the resources to provide the kinds of services many of these individuals need for recovery and to avoid reincarceration. Addressing the needs of individuals on probation or returning from prisons and jails to the community also raises difficult issues for the behavioral health administrators and service providers who have come to be relied on for treatment. Individuals with behavioral health issues who have criminal histories often have complex problems, some of which are difficult to address in traditional treatment settings. The reality is, however, that public healthcare professionals are already struggling to serve them. A significant number of individuals who receive services through the publicly funded mental health and substance abuse systems are involved in the criminal justice system. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the criminal justice system is the single largest source of referral to the public substance abuse treatment system, with probation and parole treatment admissions representing the highest proportion of these referrals.1 Overlapping populations similarly exist for corrections administrators and mental healthcare providers.2 With state and local agencies enduring dramatic budget cuts, resources are already scarce for serving and supervising individuals with substance abuse and mental health needs who are, or have been, involved in the criminal justice system. The question that many policymakers and practitioners are asking is whether those resources are being put to the best use in advancing public safety and health, as well as personal recovery. They are examining whether allocations of behavioral health resources are increasing diversion from the criminal justice system when appropriate and reducing ongoing criminal justice involvement for individuals under correctional control and supervision.3 The answer, frankly, is we do not think that the scale of the investments in these efforts has come close to addressing the extent of the problem or that resources are always properly focused. The dedication of resources made behind the bars and in the community does not appear to stop the individuals with substance abuse and mental health disorders from cycling through the criminal justice system—in many cases, they are simply insufficient to effect a systemwide change or do not focus narrowly enough on the people who would most benefit from the interventions. These investments in treatment and supervision have traditionally not been coordinated and sometimes even work at cross-purposes. Just as the substance abuse and mental health systems used to operate in silos—but now frequently come together to provide integrated co-occurring treatment options—a similar challenge is now before the corrections and behavioral health systems. The vast majority of inmates eventually return to their home communities from prisons and jails (650,000 or more individuals each year from state prisons alone,4 and more than 9 million individuals from jail).5 This influx of returning inmates has sparked an urgent need for corrections and behavioral healthcare administrators to reconsider the best means to facilitate reentry and service delivery to the many individuals with substance abuse and mental health problems. Despite the overlap in the populations they serve, little consensus exists among behavioral healthcare and community corrections administrators and providers on who should be prioritized for treatment, what services they should receive, and how those interventions should be coordinated with supervision. Too often, corrections administrators hear that “those aren’t my people” from behavioral healthcare administrators and providers. And just as often, the behavioral health community feels they are asked to assume a public safety role that is not in synch with their primary mission. Misunderstandings about each system’s capacity, abilities, and roles, as well as what types of referrals are appropriate, have contributed to the problem. This white paper presents a shared framework for reducing recidivism and behavioral health problems among individuals under correctional control or supervision—that is, for individuals in correctional facilities or who are on probation or parole. The paper is written for policymakers, administrators, and practitioners committed to making the most effective use of scarce resources to improve outcomes for individuals with behavioral health problems who are involved in the corrections system. It is meant to provide a common structure for corrections and treatment system professionals to begin building truly collaborative responses to their overlapping service population. These responses include both behind-the-bars and community-based interventions. This framework is designed to achieve each system’s goals and ultimately to help millions of individuals rebuild their lives while on probation or after leaving prison or jail. Details: New York: Council of State Governments, Justice Center, 2012. 82p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 29, 2012 at: http://consensusproject.org/jc_publications/adults-with-behavioral-health-needs Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://consensusproject.org/jc_publications/adults-with-behavioral-health-needs Shelf Number: 126500 Keywords: Health CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesPrisoners (U.S.)RecidivismRehabilitationTreatment Programs |
Author: Ricklund, Peter Title: Rapid Referral Program: Spectrum Youth & Family Services: Outcome Evaluation Summary: The Rapid Referral Program is a partnership between Spectrum Youth & Family Services of Burlington, Vermont and the Chittenden County District Court. The purpose of this partnership is to increase access to mental health and substance abuse assessment services for individuals involved in the criminal justice system whose charge(s) are related to substance use. The main objective of the Program is to provide judges with a mechanism at arraignment to rapidly refer defendants to Spectrum Youth Services for substance abuse screening and treatment rather than delaying services until the case is disposed by the court. An outcome evaluation attempts to determine the effects that a program has on its participants. In the case of the Rapid Referral Program (hereafter “the Program”), the objective of this outcome evaluation was to determine the extent to which the Program impacts recidivism among Program participants. An indicator of post-Program criminal behavior that is commonly used in outcome evaluations of criminal justice programs is the number of participants who recidivate -- that is, are convicted of a crime after they complete the Program. For this study an analysis of the criminal history records of the 171 subjects who were referred and accepted into the Program from November, 2008 to September, 2011 was conducted using the Vermont criminal history record of participants as provided by the Vermont Criminal Information Center at the Department of Public Safety. The Vermont criminal history record on which the recidivism analysis was based included all charges and convictions prosecuted in a Vermont District Court that were available as of December 5, 2011. The criminal records on which the study was based do not contain Federal prosecutions, out-of-state prosecutions, or traffic tickets. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS 1. The Rapid Referral Program serves its designated target population. 2. The Rapid Referral Program serves defendants who possess a variety of risk factors generally considered to be related to recidivism. 3. The Rapid Referral Program appears to be a promising approach for positively impacting recidivism among Program participants. 4. The vast majority of Rapid Referral Program participants that recidivate are convicted of new crimes within one year of Program completion. Estimates suggest that the percentage of participants who recidivate is not likely to increase as post-Program elapsed time continues to increase for participants. 5. Generally, post-Program reconvictions for Rapid Referral Program participants involved minor types of crime. 6. The Rapid Referral Program seems to be relatively successful in reducing the number of reconvictions for alcohol and drug crimes among participants after Program completion. 7. The Rapid Referral Program recidivists tended to commit post-Program crime in Chittenden County. Details: Northfield Falls, VT: Vermont Center for Justice Research, 2012. 29p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 19, 2012 at: http://www.vcjr.org/reports/reportscrimjust/downloads-2/files/Spectrum%20Report.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.vcjr.org/reports/reportscrimjust/downloads-2/files/Spectrum%20Report.pdf Shelf Number: 126747 Keywords: Drug Abuse and AddictionDrug Abuse and CrimeDrug Abuse TreatmentMental Health ServicesRecidivismSubstance Abuse (Vermont) |
Author: Wicklund, Peter Title: Windsor County Sparrow Project: Outcome Evaluation Summary: The Sparrow Project was initiated in the spring of 2009 when it was awarded an H.859 Justice Reinvestment Pilot Project grant from the Vermont Court Administrator’s office (CAO). The grant application was submitted by Health Care and Rehabilitation Services of Southeastern Vermont (HCRS) in collaboration with the Windsor District Court, the Windsor County State’s Attorneys Office, a group of Windsor County public defenders, Probation & Parole for the Springfield and Hartford Districts, and the Field Service Division of the Agency of Human Services for the Springfield and Hartford districts. Bill H.859 was passed during the 2007/2008 Legislative session. The Sparrow Project was designed to address a critical need in the community to meet the challenges facing defendants with substance abuse and/or mental health issues. The Sparrow Project offers effective alternatives to incarceration through a viable community-based treatment plan. Through clinical case management services, the Sparrow Project is focused on increasing the availability of therapeutic services to defendants and veterans in Windsor County charged with non-violent property felonies, drug felonies, and other charges. The Sparrow Project is designed to help improve the quality of life for these individuals by decreasing recidivism, helping them develop the skills they need to make healthy decisions, and moving them towards recovery, in order to become successful participants in our community. During the study period 58% of Sparrow Project participants (56 of 97) completed the Project. An outcome evaluation attempts to determine the effects that a program has on participants. In the case of the Sparrow Project the objective of this outcome evaluation was to determine the extent to which participation in the Sparrow Project reduced recidivism among program participants. An indicator of post-program criminal behavior that is commonly used in outcome evaluations of criminal justice programs is the number of participants who recidivate -- that is, are convicted of a crime after they complete the program or, in the case of this study, while they are in the program or after they are dis-enrolled from the program. An analysis of the criminal history records of the 103 subjects who were referred to and accepted into the Sparrow Project from March 30, 2009 to October 28, 2011 was conducted using the Vermont criminal history record of participants as provided by the Vermont Criminal Information Center at the Department of Public Safety. The Vermont criminal history record on which the recidivism analysis was based included all charges and convictions prosecuted in a Vermont District Court that were available as of January 23, 2012. The criminal records on which the study was based do not contain Federal prosecutions, out-of-state prosecutions, or traffic tickets. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS 1. The Sparrow Project appears to be a promising approach for reducing recidivism among Project participants who completed the Project. Participants who successfully completed the Project had a reconviction rate of 17.9% which is substantially less than the 29.3% recidivism rate for those participants who were dis-enrolled from the Project. 2. Participants who successfully completed the Sparrow Project recidivated at the same pace as did participants who were dis-enrolled from the Project. For the recidivists who successfully completed the Sparrow Project, 100% of those reconvictions for any new crime occurred in less than one year. For the recidivists who were unsuccessful in completing the Project, 91.7% (11 of 12) of reconvictions for any new crime occurred in less than one year, and only one occurred during the first year after being dis-enrolled from the Project. Further analysis indicated that though the vast majority of recidivism occurs within the first year, it is unlikely that recidivism will increase substantially as post-Project elapsed time continues to increase for participants. 3. The Sparrow Project appears to be a promising approach for reducing the number of post-Project reconvictions for participants who completed the Project. The reconviction rate for those participants who completed the Project was 39 reconvictions per 100 participants versus 66 reconvictions per 100 participants for the dis-enrolled group. There were no felony reconvictions for participants who successfully completed the Project, whereas there were four felony reconvictions for the dis-enrolled group. For both groups approximately 85% of their reconvictions involved (listed in order of frequency) motor vehicle charges violations of conditions of release, drug crimes, theft, false information to a law enforcement officer, and violation of probation. There was only one reconviction for a violent crime (Domestic Assault); it involved a participant from the “successful completion” group. Details: Northfield Falls, VT: Vermont Center for Justice Research, 2012. 35p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 19, 2012 at: http://www.vcjr.org/reports/reportscrimjust/reports/sparrowreport_files/SparrowRpt_6-20-12.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.vcjr.org/reports/reportscrimjust/reports/sparrowreport_files/SparrowRpt_6-20-12.pdf Shelf Number: 126748 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationDrug Abuse and Addiction (Vermont)Drug Abuse and CrimeDrug OffendersDrug TreatmentMental Health ServicesRecidivism |
Author: Stageberg, Paul Title: Comprehensive Jail Diversion Program-Mental Health Courts Study Summary: On April 12, 2012 Governor Branstad signed Senate File 2312, an Act Relating to Persons with Mental Health Illnesses and Substance Related Disorders. Section 18. Comprehensive Jail Diversion Program-Mental Health Courts –Study. The Division of Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning of the Department of Human Rights shall conduct a study regarding the possible establishment of a comprehensive statewide jail diversion program including: The establishment of mental health courts, for nonviolent criminal offenders who suffer from mental illness. The division shall solicit input from the Department of Human Services, the Department of Corrections, and other members of the criminal justice system including but not limited to judges, prosecutors, and defense counsel, and mental health treatment providers and consumers. The division shall establish the duties, scope, and membership of the study commission and shall also consider the feasibility of establishing a demonstration mental health court. The division shall submit a report on the study and make recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly by December 1, 2012. This study draws primarily from existing reports and research findings of other programs. Included here are a review of the prevalence of mentally ill offenders in the criminal justice (CJ) system, the system’s response to the problem, findings of participant outcomes, reported costs, special considerations regarding mental health courts, the status of jail diversion programs and mental health courts in Iowa, and recommendations. One of the requirements of the legislation was to consider the feasibility of establishing a demonstration mental health court in Iowa. This directive was not examined because Iowa currently has two mental health courts in operation and one under consideration. Woodbury County has operated a mental health court since 2001 and Black Hawk County since 2009. Polk County has recently received funds from the Council of State Governments, Justice Center to review a mental health court curriculum for developing mental health courts. Recommendations for the establishment of a comprehensive statewide jail diversion program, including the establishment of mental health courts for nonviolent criminal offenders who suffer from mental illness, are limited to operational issues gleaned from existing reports and interviews. Due to limited staff resources and a lack of funding, no assessment of cost or delineation of funding responsibilities (state, local), or estimation of potential implementation timelines was undertaken. Details: Des Moines, IA: Iowa Department of Human Rights, Division of Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning, Statistical Analysis Center, 2012. 60p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 25, 2013 at: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/DOCS/LSA/IntComHand/2013/IHJCP000.PDF Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/DOCS/LSA/IntComHand/2013/IHJCP000.PDF Shelf Number: 127399 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCommunity TreatmentJail Diversion (Iowa)Mental Health CourtsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: Scott, Gael Title: The Mental Health Treatment Requirement: Realising a Better Future Summary: The Mental Health Treatment Requirement (MHTR) is one of twelve options available to magistrates and judges when they make a Community Order - a sentence served by an offender in the community. Given the prevalence of mental health problems within the criminal justice system, there has been a surprisingly low uptake of the MHTR to date - it represents fewer than 1% of all requirements made as part of Community Orders. The MHTR has unfulfilled potential to offer offenders with mental health problems the option of a sentence in the community which will enable them to engage with appropriate treatment and support. Wider use of the MHTR could result in improved health outcomes and reduced reoffending, cutting the costs of crime for the wider community. There have been a number of barriers to its effective use, including uncertainty as to who should receive an MHTR, how breaches of the order are managed and the need for a formal psychiatric report. Recent changes to the legal framework for the MHTR offer hope that it will become more flexible and therefore more effective as a form of diversion and rehabilitation. But there are concerns that the impact of other changes in policy and the current pressures on public spending may create further barriers to the effective use of the MHTR. This briefing examines these barriers and how they can be overcome. At a time where both the criminal justice and health systems are undergoing reform against a backdrop of significant cuts to public spending, the Criminal Justice Alliance and Centre for Mental Health believe now is an opportune time to raise the profile of the MHTR and consider how professionals can be supported to use the requirement effectively. Executive Summary This paper makes seven key recommendations to achieve this transition in the light of recent changes to health and criminal justice services. • The Government should develop clear guidance on the MHTR. • More training and information on mental health, including the MHTR, should be made available to criminal justice staff. Health professionals should also have more information on the MHTR and their role in delivering it. • For each local area, Her Majesty’s Court Service should work with the relevant mental health commissioners and service providers to establish an agreed protocol on the provision of mental health assessments and advice to the courts. • The Government should monitor levels of uptake of the MHTR. • Liaison and diversion schemes in courts should provide information to the courts for sentencing and support criminal justice professionals in responding appropriately to individuals with mental health problems. • Health and Wellbeing Boards and Clinical Commissioning Groups must consider how local commissioning plans will meet the mental health and other related needs of offenders. • There should be investment in research focusing on the mental health needs of offenders serving community sentences and how such individuals can be supported to reduce offending and improve their mental health. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health and Criminal Justice Alliance, 2012. 24p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 30, 2013 at: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/MHTR_2012.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/pdfs/MHTR_2012.pdf Shelf Number: 127445 Keywords: Community Based CorrectionsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.K.) |
Author: Louden, Jennifer Eno Title: Parolees with Mental Disorder: Toward Evidence-Based Practice Summary: In the U.S., the rate of such serious mental disorders as major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia is about two times higher among incarcerated men and three times higher in incarcerated women than in the general population (Teplin, 1994; Teplin, Abram, & McClelland, 1996). Estimates suggest that approximately 14.5% of prison inmates have a serious mental disorder (Diamond, Wang, Holzer, Thomas, & Cruzer, 2001; Fazel & Danesh, 2002; Steadman, Osher, Robbins, Case, & Samuels, 2009). As the number of persons supervised by the criminal justice system in the United States grows—it is now at an all-time high of 7.2 million (Glaze & Bonczar, 2007)—so will the number of offenders with serious mental disorder. Although the criminal justice system was not designed to meet the needs of offenders with mental disorder, it has become an integral component of the “de facto” mental health care system. For example, Los Angeles County jail, Riker’s Island jail in New York, and Cook County jail in Chicago each hold more people with mental illness than the largest psychiatric inpatient facilities in the United States (Torrey, 1995). As noted by the Council of State Governments (2002), “the current situation not only exacts a significant toll on the lives of people with mental illness, their families, and the community in general, it also threatens to overwhelm the criminal justice system” (p. 6). Community supervision is a crucial context for beginning to address this problem. Most offenders are supervised in the community on probation or parole1 rather than being incarcerated in 1 Probation and parole are both mechanisms for community supervision, but differ in a meaningful way: probation is a sentence in itself (in lieu of jail), whereas parole is a period of supervision that occurs after a prison term (Abadinsky, 2000). Thus, parolees are generally more serious offenders than probationers. prisons or jails (Glaze & Bonczar, 2007). Compared to their relatively healthy counterparts, probationers and parolees with mental disorders (PMDs) are more likely to have their community term revoked, often for committing a technical violation (breaking of the rules of community supervision, such as associating with known criminals; Cloyes, Wong, Latimer, & Abarca, 2010; Porporino & Motiuk, 1995). This deepens their involvement in the criminal justice system. Understanding parole and mental health is particularly important in California. First, California has the largest parole population in the nation (Petersilia, 2006), in part because every individual released from prison in the state serves at least one year of parole. Second, California’s rate of return to prison for parolees is notoriously high (Grattet, Petersilia, & Lin, 2008). Third, California has long had a system in place for addressing the needs of parolees with mental disorder. The Mental Health Services Continuum Program (MHSCP) is a prison “in-reach” program designed to identify the most seriously ill parolees and refer them to Parole Outpatient Clinics (POCs) for mental health treatment. MHSCP social workers conduct pre-release needs assessments of paroling inmates with mental disorder, assist with applications for social service assistance, and refer them to the outpatient clinics. The focus is on two classes of inmates with major mental disorders identified in the prison: (a) Correctional Clinical Case Management System (CCCMS) inmates who are determined to be stable and have minimal treatment needs, and (b) Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP) who are characterized by active psychotic symptoms and substantial treatment needs. The most recent available evaluation of the MHSCP program suggests that it has strengths and weaknesses: parolees who receive the evaluation are more likely to receive psychiatric services, but many eligible parolees do not receive the services intended and many return to prison (Farabee, Bennett, Garcia, Warda, & Yang, 2006). Even with these enhanced services, a detailed analysis of all California parolees reported that EOP and CCCMS parolees were at 36% higher risk of committing a new offense than non-disordered parolees, and had an even higher rate of technical violations (70% higher risk; Grattet et al., 2008). To effect change in the recidivism rate of California’s PMDs, this group must be better understood so that recommendations can be tailored to meet their unique needs. Details: Irvine, CA: UC Invine, Center for Evidence-Based Corrections, 2011. 9p. Source: Internet Resource: The Bulletin, 7(1): Accessed January 30, 2013 at: http://ucicorrections.seweb.uci.edu/sites/ucicorrections.seweb.uci.edu/files/Parolees%20with%20Mental%20Disorder.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://ucicorrections.seweb.uci.edu/sites/ucicorrections.seweb.uci.edu/files/Parolees%20with%20Mental%20Disorder.pdf Shelf Number: 127449 Keywords: Evidence-Based PracticesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersParolees (California, U.S.) |
Author: Riskiyani, Shanti Title: Barriers to Health and Other Services for Ex-Prisoners Summary: The National Survey of Drug Abuse Development reported that the police had caught 1 of 5 abusers; even 1 of 2 injection addicts had dealt with police. Furthermore, there was 1 of 7 respondents in the survey admitted that had been in prison, especially the injection addicts group. One of the strongest lessons from the end of the last century is that public health can no longer afford to ignore the prisoner health. The rise and rapid spread of HIV infection and AIDS, the resurgence of other serious communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis and the increasing recognition that prisons are inappropriate receptacles for people with dependence and mental health problems have thrust prison health high on the public health agenda (WHO, 2007). Substance use disorders among inmates are at epidemic proportions. Almost twothirds (64.5 percent) of the inmate population in the U.S. (1.5 million) met medical criteria for an alcohol or other drug use disorder. Prison and jail inmates are seven times likelier than are individuals in the general population to have a substance use disorder (Califano et.al, 2010). This activity was carried out as an advocacy tool, as an important part of the strategy in implementing Harm Reduction Network in raising the issue of drug user’s especially former prisoners. Particulary to explore the information about health services accessed by former prisoners narcotics, to explore the availabality of health services for the former prisoners and exploring accessed of former prisoners to the health services. By taking samples in seven provincial cities, the recording process is done by an objective and conducted by the research team. We’re collecting data using a qualitative method, data collection through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The instrument used in this study had previously been tested in two provinces, Medan –a city as the representation of western region- and Bali, for the eastern region. The results of this trial had then been discussed in a meeting attended by FHI staff, NGO staff of Charisma, Ministry of Health officials, Directorate General of Corrections and UNODC, to get feedback on improving the instrument. The results of this meeting was followed by a Data Collecting Team workshop and delivered new instrument that was then used in the farther data collection. Our workshops were conducted to similize perceptions of the reseracher members in the process of data collection in the field. Details: Indonesian Harm Reduction Federal; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2012. 97p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 31, 2013 at: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/64663568/library/Final-Rep-UNODC-Eng.pdf Year: 2012 Country: Asia URL: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/64663568/library/Final-Rep-UNODC-Eng.pdf Shelf Number: 127459 Keywords: Drug AddictionDrug TreatmentEx-OffendersEx-PrisonersHealth CareMental Health Services |
Author: Martin, Brian D. Title: Findings and Recommendations from a Statewide Outcome Evaluation of Ohio Jails Summary: Scholars and practitioners have very little systemic knowledge regarding evidence-based practices in jails in Ohio or nationally. Historical information about past inspections and jail characteristics maintained by the Bureau of Adult Detention has been impeded by narrowly focused content, limited time frames, and unreliable data collection techniques. As a consequence, the current research project draws on multiple methodologies and sources of information as part of an extensive evaluation of the sources of jail best practices. Data collection activities conducted throughout the project were large in scale and wide-ranging, including focus groups from 6 different stakeholder groups, a correctional officer task survey of 1,005 respondents about training-related needs and deficiencies, statewide facility-level data collection at 86 full service jails, an inmate survey with 979 respondents, a jail administrator survey with 12 respondents, semi-structured interviews of key jail operational personnel at a sample of 12 full service jails, and intensive observational site visits at a sample of 12 full service jails. The results highlight several key themes and important facility-level characteristics that differentiate between levels of functioning and effectiveness in jails. In particular, we identify a set of recommendations and identified best practices stemming from actual operational procedures and administrative capacity while also assessing the effectiveness of current inspection activities and jail standards in Ohio. Details: Columbus, OH: Bureau of Research and Evaluation Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, 2012. 107p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 7, 2013 at: http://www.ocjs.ohio.gov/FinalJailReport.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.ocjs.ohio.gov/FinalJailReport.pdf Shelf Number: 127528 Keywords: Correctional AdministrationCorrectional InstitutionsJails (Ohio)Mental Health Services |
Author: National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice Title: Mental Health Screening within Juvenile Justice: The Next Frontier Summary: This report discusses issues surrounding the mental health screening of juvenile offenders such as screening procedures, policies and implementation. Chapters of this report are: "Introduction" by Kathleen R. Skowyra and Joseph J. Cocozza; "Procedures and Policies: Good Practice and Appropriate Uses of Screening Results" by Valerie Williams; and "Implementing mental Health Screening" by Thomas Grisso — ten steps. Appendixes include: resources for identifying and reviewing mental health screening tools; Pennsylvania guidelines for introducing the MAYSI-2 (Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument - Second Version) to youth; and Texas MAYSI-2 Protocol. Details: Delmar, NY: National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice, 2007. 38p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 11, 2013 at: http://www.ncmhjj.com/pdfs/publications/MH_Screening.pdf Year: 2007 Country: United States URL: http://www.ncmhjj.com/pdfs/publications/MH_Screening.pdf Shelf Number: 127570 Keywords: Juvenile OffendersMental Health ScreeningMental Health Services |
Author: New South Wales Law Reform Commission Title: People with Cognitive and Mental Health Impairments in the Criminal Justice System. Diversion Summary: There is evidence of over-representation of people with cognitive and mental health impairments at all stages of the criminal system justice system. For example: A 2002 survey of police officers in Sydney found that police reported spending an average of 10% of their time with “mentally disturbed people”. Some reported spending up to 60% of their time. A 2007 BOCSAR study at two NSW local courts found that 55% of defendants surveyed suffered from one or more psychiatric disorders. There was apparent over-representation in all categories of mental health impairment, when compared with the general rate in NSW. A 2009 study of 60 defendants appearing before four local courts in Greater Sydney found that people with cognitive impairments were over-represented in those courts. A 2003 study of NSW prisoners found that 74% of inmates experienced at least one psychiatric disorder in the 12 months prior to being interviewed. For example, 9% of prisoners were identified as having psychosis, whereas the representation in the general population is 0.42%. Arrest or imprisonment of people with impairments without providing access to services that address needs related to offending behaviour may not provide the best outcome for that person or the community, and is unlikely to be effective in reducing future offending. Yet the rate of impairments in prison is high, and use of Local Court diversionary provisions is very low – only amounting to about 1.5% of finalisations. Why are people with cognitive and mental health impairment over-represented in the criminal justice system? The reasons for over-representation of people with cognitive and mental health impairments in the criminal justice system are complex and multi-factored. A person may have complex needs and face multiple sources of disadvantage, thereby increasing their likelihood of coming into contact with the criminal justice system. For example, a 2010 BOCSAR study suggested that rates of reoffending are “substantially elevated” among those with a mental health impairment only where it occurs alongside a substance disorder. Yet, factors such as mental health impairment and substance abuse issues may be amenable to treatment or other intervention. Addressing an impairment or other need could help reduce future offending. How can diversion help? Diversion provides opportunities for police and courts to respond more effectively to people with cognitive and mental health impairments. For example, instead of charging a person, it may be better for police or the courts to refer someone who has committed a trivial offence and has an impairment to services that address offending behaviour. Studies have shown: Reductions in reoffending associated with diversionary programs that identify people with mental health impairments and refer them to treatment or other support. Reductions in reoffending, cost savings and mental health improvements associated with diversionary approaches that case manage and support people with complex needs. Reductions in the nature and extent of reoffending for participants in specialist lists or court programs for people with mental health impairments. We have drawn from the characteristics of such programs, and the legislative mechanisms that support them, in developing a response that best addresses the concerns of the community and the needs of the individuals. The benefits of diversion have been identified in NSW 2021 – A plan to make NSW number one, which includes goals such as preventing and reducing reoffending, and keeping people healthy. These goals are accompanied by targets such as increasing completion rates for key treatment and intervention programs, and diverting people with mental health impairments out of the criminal justice system and into services. Why is diversion not being used more extensively now? Unless people with cognitive and mental health impairments are first identified and assessed, the criminal justice system cannot respond appropriately to them. Yet, the burden of identification and management of people with cognitive and mental health impairments in the criminal justice system often falls on people who do not have the required skills or expertise. The existing Statewide Community and Court Liaison Service, which assists in identifying and assessing people with mental health impairments and referring them to mental health services, is only available in 20 of the 148 Local Court locations in NSW, and there is no equivalent service for cognitive impairment. Even where particular impairments are identified, those who work in the criminal justice system are not likely to be expert in linking them to the complex service systems in the community that may break the cycle of offending. So while courts have power to divert under s 32, those powers may not be used, or may not be effective, because the right services have not been identified. A pilot program, Court Referral of Eligible Defendants into Treatment (CREDIT), is addressing these issues, but it only operates in two NSW Local Courts. Similarly, community service providers may not be familiar with criminal justice system processes and the expectations of courts. The current system for reporting non-compliance with court ordered treatment plans or orders under s 32 is ineffective. An important factor in successful diversion appears to lie in the provision of a “bridge” between the criminal justice system and the service sectors. “Bridges” are often provided by specialist case workers attached to courts, who can translate the needs of the criminal justice system to the service sector and the needs of the service sector to the court. In summary, there is a need to improve our identification of people with impairments, link them with the right services that will focus on dealing with their offending behaviour, and provide a framework to keep them engaged with those services. Details: Sydney: New South Wales Law Reform Commission, 2012. 426p. Source: Internet Resource: Report 135: Accessed February 21, 2013 at: http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawlink/lrc/ll_lrc.nsf/pages/LRC_cref120 Year: 2012 Country: Australia URL: http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawlink/lrc/ll_lrc.nsf/pages/LRC_cref120 Shelf Number: 127683 Keywords: Cognitive ImpairmentsDiversionMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Australia) |
Author: Newman, Robert Title: Turning Young Lives Around: How health and justice services can respond to children with mental health problems and learning disabilities who offend Summary: Children in the UK who offend - the facts: • 85,300 children were supervised by Youth Offending Teams in 2010/11, a reduction of 20% from 2009/10 • Around 25% of children who offend have very low IQs of less than 70 • 43% of children on community orders have emotional and mental health needs, and the prevalence amongst children in custody is much higher • 60% of children who offend have communication difficulties and, of this group, around half have poor or very poor communication skills • Around 33% of all children accessing local drug and substance misuse services are referred from the youth justice system • 27% of children and young people who offend are not in full time education, training or employment at the end of their period of youth justice supervision. This briefing paper seeks to encourage effective joint working between Health and Wellbeing Boards and youth justice services, in particular, to ensure that local strategies reflect the needs of children and young people who offend, especially those with mental health problems and learning disabilities. It outlines a practical action agenda and provides examples of good practice to help turn these young lives around. Details: London: Prison Reform Trust, 2013. 32p. Source: Internet Resource: Briefing Paper: Accessed March 1, 2013 at: http://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk/Portals/0/Documents/turningyounglivesaroundFINAL.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk/Portals/0/Documents/turningyounglivesaroundFINAL.pdf Shelf Number: 127753 Keywords: Delinquency PreventionJuvenile Offenders (U.K.)Learning DisabilitiesMental Health Services |
Author: Biasotti, Michael C. Title: Management of the Severely Mentally Ill and its Effects on Homeland Security Summary: As a result of the events of September 11, 2001, law enforcement agencies nationwide have been assigned a plethora of terrorism prevention and recovery related duties. Many federal documents outline and emphasize duties and responsibilities pertaining to local law enforcement. The prevention of acts of terrorism within communities has become a focal point of patrol activities for state and local police agencies. Simultaneously, local law enforcement is dealing with the unintended consequences of a policy change that in effect removed the daily care of our nation’s severely mentally ill population from the medical community and placed it with the criminal justice system. This policy change has caused a spike in the frequency of arrests of severely mentally ill persons, prison and jail population and the homeless population. A nationwide survey of 2,406 senior law enforcement officials conducted within this paper indicates that the deinstitutionalization of the severely mentally ill population has become a major consumer of law enforcement resources nationwide. This paper argues that highly cost-effective policy recommendations exist that would assist in correcting the current situation, which is needlessly draining law enforcement resources nationwide, thereby allowing sorely needed resources to be directed toward this nation’s homeland security concerns. Details: Monterey, CA: Naval Postgraduate School, 2011. 155p. Source: Internet Resource: Thesis: Accessed March 5, 2013 at: http://www.nychiefs.org/media/Mgmt_Severely_Mentally_Ill_Homeland_Security_Biasotti.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://www.nychiefs.org/media/Mgmt_Severely_Mentally_Ill_Homeland_Security_Biasotti.pdf Shelf Number: 127828 Keywords: Homeland SecurityHomelessnessLaw Enforcement ResourcesMental Health ServicesMental Illness (U.S.)Mentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Wilhelm, Daniel F. Title: Youth, Safety, and Violence: Schools, Communities, and Mental Health Summary: One of the most shocking elements of the Newtown, Connecticut tragedy is that it took place in what is supposed to be a safe place for children: a school. Understandably, much attention is being paid to how to make and keep schools safe. Some propose that increasing the police presence in schools is necessary. However, in a 2005 national survey of principals, a quarter of those who reported the presence of school-based law enforcement personnel (often referred to as School Resource Officers, or SROs) said that the primary reason for introducing police was not the level of violence in the school, disorder problems, or even requests from parents, but “national media attention about school violence.” In considering this approach, it is important to recognize that little is known about the immediate and long-term effects of such a policy and practice. Intensive information gathering and discussion about the potential implications of allowing or increasing school-based police is needed to ensure that a well-intentioned policy initiative does not have unintended consequences, such as: further criminalizing youth, particularly youth of color from marginalized and under-resourced communities; impeding the development of positive school enviroments; and in some cases, actually reducing the likelihood of achieving the goal of fostering safe school environments. It is also necessary to put school violence in context: according to national data, less than 1 percent of all homicides among school-aged children occur on school grounds or in transit to and from school. This figure does not detract from the tragedy of any death or other violent incidents related to school, but it demonstrates where most lethal violence takes place in young people’s lives: outside school settings. Details: New York: Vera Institute of Justice, 2013. 12p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief: Accessed March 12, 2013 at: http://www.vera.org/sites/default/files/resources/downloads/youth-safety-and-violence.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://www.vera.org/sites/default/files/resources/downloads/youth-safety-and-violence.pdf Shelf Number: 127926 Keywords: HomicidesMental Health ServicesSchool CrimeSchool Resource OfficersSchool SafetySchool Violence (U.S.) |
Author: Kilgour, Glen Title: Breaking the Cycle of Crime: Special Treatment Unit Evaluation Report Summary: This summary report outlines a multi-layered evaluation of the performance and effectiveness of the four High Risk Special Treatment Units (HRSTUs) run by the Department of Corrections, New Zealand. Projects covered the description of programme participants, completers’ perceptions of the programme, programme integrity, pre- and post-programme results on psychometric measures, misconduct rates following treatment and recidivism outcomes. The evaluation found that: • The HRSTUs are generally targeting the offenders for which they were designed; Maori participants are represented in proportion to their presence within the high risk prisoner population. • The programmes are well received by programme completers; the units are typically regarded as ‘safe’ places that effectively challenge antisocial thinking and behaviour. • Programme integrity is generally satisfactory but changes in some areas could improve the ‘therapeutic community’ aspect of the environment and other indicators of integrity (e.g. supervision, staff selection, adherence to manuals). • Initial indications show changes in the right direction on several measures of programme outcome including psychometric testing results, prison incidents, and recidivism. The recommendations are divided into five sections: changes to programme eligibility criteria; HRSTU programme improvements; post-programme support and reintegration; general management of the units, and ongoing research and evaluation. The recommendations include: • reviewing the use of key programme assessment measures • refining aspects of the selection and retention of programme participants • ensuring regular and robust supervision of programme staff • improving post-treatment support, release planning, and reintegration initiatives for programme attendees • changing structural aspects of the programme and improving staff selection procedures and training to strengthen the therapeutic community • maintaining an ongoing evaluative component of the programme following an internal review of appropriate psychometric measures and the model of data capture. Details: Wellington, NZ: Psychological Services Department of Corrections, 2012. 20p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 15, 2013 at: http://www.corrections.govt.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/641217/COR_Breaking_the_Cycle_of_Crime_WEB.pdf Year: 2012 Country: New Zealand URL: http://www.corrections.govt.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/641217/COR_Breaking_the_Cycle_of_Crime_WEB.pdf Shelf Number: 127966 Keywords: Correctional ProgramsCorrectional Rehabilitation Programs (New Zealand)Mental Health ServicesPsychological ServicesRecidivism |
Author: Teplin, Linda A. Title: The Northwestern Juvenile Project: Overview Summary: The Northwestern Juvenile Project (NJP) studies a randomly selected sample of 1,829 youth who were arrested and detained in Cook County, IL, between 1995 and 1998. This bulletin provides an overview of NJP and presents the following information about the project: NJP is a longitudinal study that investigates the mental health needs and long-term outcomes of youth detained in the juvenile justice system. This study addresses a key omission in the delinquency literature. Many studies examine the connection between risk factors and the onset of delinquency. Far fewer investigations follow youth after they are arrested and detained. The mental health needs of youth detained in the juvenile justice system are far greater than those in the general population. The mental health needs of youth in detention are largely untreated. Among detainees with major psychiatric disorders and functional impairment, only 15 percent had been treated in the detention center before release. Details: Wsahington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2013. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Juvenile Justice Bulletin: Accessed March 18, 2013 at: http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/234522.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/234522.pdf Shelf Number: 127996 Keywords: Detention CentersJuvenile Offenders (U.S.)Mental HealthMental Health Services |
Author: New Jersey. Police Suicide Task Force Title: New Jersey Police Suicide Task Force Report Summary: Nationally, suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death. While New Jersey has one of the lowest suicide rates in the nation, suicide is also a leading cause of injury death in the state, exceeded only by motor vehicle crashes and drug overdoses. In 2007, New Jersey had more than 600 suicides, and suicides exceeded homicides by a ratio of approximately three to two. For each completed suicide, approximately eight non-fatal attempts result in hospitalization. Yet the impact of suicide cannot be measured by the number of deaths alone, because suicide has devastating consequences for loved ones, co-workers and society. The law enforcement community in New Jersey and elsewhere has long been faced with the troubling issue of law enforcement officer suicide, which routinely takes more lives than deaths occurring in the line of duty. The stress of law enforcement work as well as access to firearms puts officers at above average risk for suicide. The impact of suicide in the law enforcement community has led many to call for a more concerted effort to improve prevention. On October 5, 2008, Governor Jon S. Corzine announced the formation of the Governor’s Task Force on Police Suicide. A fourteen member panel was established representing various branches of law enforcement, mental health professionals, service providers, and survivors’ organizations. A list of the Task Force members is included in Appendix A. Chaired by the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Human Services, the Task Force was charged with examining the problem of law enforcement1 suicide in New Jersey, and developing recommendations for suicide prevention. The Task Force members shared their expertise and reviewed a great deal of material on law enforcement officer suicide. Additionally, a number of guest speakers made presentations. A complete list of presentations is included in Appendix B. The Task Force also surveyed law enforcement supervisors on their utilization of mental health services for their officers. The Task Force’s recommendations focus on: • Providing more suicide awareness training to law enforcement officers and supervisors; • Improving access to and increasing the effectiveness of existing resources; • Recommending the adoption of best practices; and • Combating the reluctance of officers to seek help. Details: Trenton: The Task Force, 2009. 55p. Source: Internet Resource: http://www.nj.gov/lps/library/NJPoliceSuicideTaskForceReport-January-30-2009-Final(r2.3.09).pdf Year: 2009 Country: United States URL: http://www.nj.gov/lps/library/NJPoliceSuicideTaskForceReport-January-30-2009-Final(r2.3.09).pdf Shelf Number: 128169 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesPolice StressPolice Suicides (New Jersey, U.S.)Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder |
Author: U.S. Department of Defense Task Force on Mental Health Title: An Achievable Vision: Report of the Department of Defense Task Force on Mental Health Summary: The costs of military service are substantial. Many costs are readily apparent; others are less apparent but no less important. Among the most pervasive and potentially disabling consequences of these costs is the threat to the psychological health of our nation’s fighting forces, their families, and their survivors. Our involvement in the Global War on Terrorism has created unforeseen demands not only on individual military service members and their families, but also on the Department of Defense itself, which must expand its capabilities to support the psychological health of its service members and their families. In particular, the system is being challenged by emergence of two “signature injuries” from the current conflict – posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. These two injuries often coincide, requiring integrated and interdisciplinary treatment methods. New demands have exposed shortfalls in a health care system that in previous decades had been oriented away from a wartime focus. Staffing levels were poorly matched to the high operational tempo even prior to the current conflict, and the system has become even more strained by the increased deployment of active duty providers with mental health expertise. As such, the system of care for psychological health that has evolved over recent decades is insufficient to meet the needs of today’s forces and their beneficiaries, and will not be sufficient to meet their needs in the future. Changes in the military mental health system and military medicine more generally, have mirrored trends in the landscape of American healthcare toward acute, short-term treatment models that may not provide optimal management of psychological disorders that tend to be more chronic in nature. As in the civilian sector, military mental health practices tend to emphasize identification and treatment of specific disorders over preventing and treating illness, enhancing coping, and maximizing resilience. Emerging lessons from recent deployments have raised questions about the adequacy of this orientation, not only for treating psychological disorders, but also for achieving the goal of a healthy and resilient force. The challenges are enormous and the consequences of non-performance are significant. Data from the Post- Deployment Health Re-Assessment, which is administered to service members 90 to 120 days after returning from deployment, indicate that 38 percent of Soldiers and 31 percent of Marines report psychological symptoms. Among members of the National Guard, the figure rises to 49 percent (U.S. Air Force, 2007; U.S. Army, 2007; U.S. Navy, 2007). Further, psychological concerns are significantly higher among those with repeated deployments, a rapidly growing cohort. Psychological concerns among family members of deployed and returning Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans, while yet to be fully quantified, are also an issue of concern. Hundreds of thousands of children have experienced the deployment of a parent. Details: Falls Church, VA: Defense Health Board, 2007. 100p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 6, 2013 at: http://www.health.mil/dhb/mhtf/mhtf-report-final.pdf Year: 2007 Country: United States URL: http://www.health.mil/dhb/mhtf/mhtf-report-final.pdf Shelf Number: 128316 Keywords: Mental HealthMental Health ServicesMilitary Veterans (U.S.)Posttraumatic Stress Syndrome |
Author: Lynch, Shannon M. Title: Women’s Pathways to Jail: Examining Mental Health, Trauma, and Substance Use Summary: The rate of incarceration of women has increased substantially in recent decades, with a 31 percent increase between 2000 and 2011 (Minton, 2012). Female offenders appear to have different risk factors for offending than do male offenders. In particular, female offenders report greater incidence of mental health problems and serious mental illness (SMI) than do male offenders (James and Glaze, 2006; Steadman et al., 2009). Female offenders also report higher rates of substance dependence as well as greater incidence of past physical and sexual abuse (James and Glaze, 2006). Other researchers also have noted elevated rates of experiences of interpersonal trauma, substance dependence, and associated symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in female offenders (Green et al., 2005; Lynch et al., 2012). This multisite study addresses critical gaps in the literature by assessing the prevalence of SMI, PTSD, and substance use disorders (SUD) in women in jail, and the pathways to jail for women with and without SMI. Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance, 2013. 4p. Source: Internet Resource: BJA Policiy Brief: Accessed April 18, 2013 at: https://www.bja.gov/Publications/WomensPathwaysToJail.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: https://www.bja.gov/Publications/WomensPathwaysToJail.pdf Shelf Number: 128414 Keywords: Drug Abuse and AddictionDrug Abuse and CrimeFemale InmatesFemale Offenders (U.S.)Jail InmatesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Brooker, Charlie Title: An Investigation into the Prevalence of Mental Health Disorder and Patterns of Health Service Access in a Probation Population Summary: This study was funded by an East Midlands Research for Patient Benefit grant. The research is divided into three stages, each of which is presented separately below. Stage 1 aimed to investigate the prevalence of mental health disorders, substance misuse, needs and patterns of service access amongst offenders under probation supervision in Lincolnshire, through one-toone clinical interviews with a stratified random sample of offenders. A sub-study was included in this stage which investigated the use of a brief screen for ‘likely caseness’ of Personality Disorder (PD) (SAPAS) with a probation population. This is reported here as ‘Stage 4’. Stage 2 investigated the extent to which probation staff were aware of, and recording, offenders’ mental health and substance misuse problems, and the nature of any action taken by the probation service to address these issues. In Stage 3, qualitative interviews were undertaken in order to investigate the experiences of probation staff when trying to facilitate access to health services for offenders, and the experiences of offenders trying to access health services. This stage of the study aimed to highlight models of good practice in service provision for offenders, and barriers to service access for this hard-to-reach group. This stage also includes recommendations on how access to services could be improved for offenders under probation supervision. The over-arching aim of the research is to pilot a methodology for assessing the prevalence of mental health disorder and substance misuse amongst offenders under probation supervision. In addition, the study aims to gather data which will be shared with a multi-agency steering group and used to inform both probation practice and health service provision for this hard-to-reach group. Details: Lincoln, UK: University of Lincoln, Criminal Justice and Health Research Group, 2011. 172p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 22, 2013 at: http://www.cepprobation.org/uploaded_files/RfPB-final-report-17-9-11.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.cepprobation.org/uploaded_files/RfPB-final-report-17-9-11.pdf Shelf Number: 128431 Keywords: Drug Abuse TreatmentDrug OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersProbationProbationers (U.K.) |
Author: Roxburgh, Amanda Title: Mental Health, Drug Use and Risk among Female Street-Based Sex Workers in Greater Sydney Summary: Demographic characteristics - The mean age of the sample was 34 years and approximately one-quarter of the sample identified as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (A&TSI) origin. The median years of school education completed was 9. Fourteen percent reported having no fixed address, or current homelessness and nearly half the sample reported being homeless within the past 12 months. Income apart from sex work in the past month came from several sources, and the vast majority reported sex work as their main source of income in the past month. More than half of the sample reported moving out of home before age 16. Sex work history and working conditions - The median age that participants reported starting sex work was 19, with almost one third starting before 18. Length of involvement in the sex industry ranged from four months to 39 years, and participants had worked in various other sectors of the sex industry. The majority of participants reported starting sex work because they needed the money for drugs, and this was also the main reason for remaining in the sex industry. Just under half the sample reported the money as being the most enjoyable aspect of their work, and the biggest concern for approximately one-third of the sample was the provision of a safe work environment (such as safe houses). Three-quarters of the women reported providing services on the street, two-thirds reported providing them in cars and just over half the sample reported using a safe house (in areas where safe houses were available). Two-thirds of the sample reported that they found sex work very stressful, and half stated that clients were the reason for this stress. The overwhelming majority of women reported ever having experienced violence while working, most commonly physical assault and rape. Drug use and drug treatment - Ninety four percent of the sample had ever injected any drug, and the median age of first injecting was 18, with approximately one-quarter of the sample reporting first injecting before the age of 16. There were relatively heavy patterns of heroin, cocaine and cannabis use reported among some of the women, while patterns of methamphetamine and alcohol use remained sporadic. The vast majority of the sample was heroin dependent according to the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) while approximately one-third was cocaine and cannabis dependent. Participants who were cocaine dependent were more likely to report sharing injecting equipment in the past month and less likely to use condoms when having penetrative sex with clients. Approximately two-thirds of the sample was in drug treatment at the time of interview. Sex work and drug use - Approximately half the sample reported injecting drugs prior to commencing sex work, and one-quarter reported commencing sex work within 3 years of injecting drug use initiation. Just over one-quarter of the sample reported starting sex work prior to injecting drug use, and approximately three-quarters reported that their drug use had increased since they started sex work. Injection-related risk behaviours - There were very few reports of borrowing used needles among the injecting drug users, while one-fifth reported lending a used needle to someone in the preceding month. Almost two-thirds of the sample reported sharing other injecting equipment in the past month. Approximately two-thirds of the sample reported testing positive for HCV. There were no reports of HIV positive results. Unwanted sexual activity - Three-quarters of the sample reported experiencing some form of child sexual abuse before the age of 16. Almost two-thirds of the sample reported that someone had sexual intercourse with them after the age of 16 when they had made it clear they did not consent. Mental health problems - Depression - Approximately half of the sample reported severe current depressive symptoms in accordance with the Beck Depression Inventory II. Depression was associated with homelessness in the past 12 months, A&TSI status, and cannabis dependence. Approximately half the sample reported ever having tried to kill themself, and approximately one-quarter had first attempted suicide by the age of 18. Borderline Personality Disorder - Approximately half the sample screened positively for a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), which was associated with a range of adverse outcomes: earlier age of injecting drug use initiation, benzodiazepine dependence, cannabis dependence, sharing injecting equipment, current severe depressive symptoms, and adult sexual assault. Post-traumatic stress disorder - All but one of the participants reported having experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, with a large proportion reporting multiple traumas. Rape, physical assault, child sexual abuse and witnessing someone being badly injured or killed were the most commonly reported traumas. Approximately half of the sample met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV (TR)) criteria for a lifetime diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and one-third reported current PTSD symptoms. Approximately three-quarters of those participants who developed PTSD said they had spoken to a health professional about the associated symptoms. Those reporting current PTSD were more likely to have experienced a greater number of traumas than those who did not report current symptoms. Access to mental health services - Approximately one-quarter of the sample had ever been admitted to a psychiatric hospital, and the most common reasons for admission were depression and anxiety. Just under half of the sample reported speaking with a health professional about a mental health problem other than their drug use in the past 6 months, most commonly for depression. Crime and police contact - Just under half of the sample reported engaging in criminal activity in the month prior to the interview, and just over half of the sample had been arrested in the preceding 12 months. Over half the sample reported ever having been in prison, and a small proportion had been in prison in the preceding 12 months. There were mixed reports regarding experiences with the police. Equal proportions of participants reported experiences of police harassment, poor treatment, and assault reports not being taken seriously, as well as police assistance, respectful treatment, and police assistance after assaults. Despite the large majority of women reporting experiences of violence at work, very low proportions had reported these incidents to police. Access to information and emotional support - Participants generally had good access to information on safe sex and drug use, bloodborne virus information and legal support. Access was particularly good to information on the sex industry in general. A substantial minority of the group reported having no emotional support. Details: Sydney: National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, 2005. 81p. Source: Internet Resource: NDARC Technical Report Number 237: Accessed May 1, 2013 at: http://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/resource/mental-health-drug-use-and-risk-among-female-street-based-sex-workers-greater-sydney Year: 2005 Country: Australia URL: http://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/resource/mental-health-drug-use-and-risk-among-female-street-based-sex-workers-greater-sydney Shelf Number: 106728 Keywords: Drug Abuse and AddictionMental Health ServicesProstitutesProstitution (Australia)Sex Workers |
Author: Mendel, Richard A. Title: Bernalillo County Mental Health Clinic Case Study Summary: It is one of the most complex challenges facing our nation’s juvenile courts, probation agencies and detention centers: How to provide effective mental health treatment for youth involved in the juvenile justice system? Particularly vexing is how to provide high-quality mental health care for youth entering detention (or being placed into detention alternatives) and then ensure that the care continues uninterrupted after youth exit detention supervision. This report examines how one jurisdiction — Bernalillo County, New Mexico — has taken extraordinary steps to address these detention-related mental health challenges first by ensuring Medicaid eligibility for detained youth and then by establishing a licensed free-standing community mental health clinic adjacent to its detention facility. Now 10 years old, Bernalillo’s mental health clinic has provided services to thousands of court-involved youth. Though costly and fraught with complexity, the clinic has proven a useful component in Bernalillo’s notable successes reducing detention populations and promoting success for court-involved youth. It offers a valuable case study for juvenile justice officials everywhere who are interested in improving mental health services for youth in their systems. The report begins by briefly reviewing the mental health challenge facing juvenile courts generally and detention agencies specifically in providing effective mental health services for court-involved youth. Following that is an overview of the Bernalillo County JDAI program — how it started, what strategies it has employed and how its leaders came to identify mental health as a core challenge requiring an aggressive and creative response. Next, the report details the steps in the evolution of Bernalillo County’s mental health strategy, including the development of improved mental health services for detained youth, the pursuit of reforms to ensure the continuity of Medicaid eligibility for detained youth, and finally the creation, licensing and initial financing of the mental health clinic. The report then provides a description of Bernalillo’s new mental health clinic — including its programs and services, clientele, staffing and financing. The sixth chapter examines the clinic’s impact, reviewing available data and discussing the various mechanisms through which the clinic is advancing the goals of detention reform and of the juvenile justice system generally. The final chapters of the report review the lessons learned from Bernalillo’s experience with mental health, including discussion of: (a) the issues and challenges Bernalillo has faced in creating, sustaining and ensuring the effectiveness of the clinic; (b) the key questions other jurisdictions should review when considering whether to replicate the Bernalillo clinic model; and (c) the lessons emerging from Bernalillo’s experience about the role of mental health treatment in detention reform that will be useful for all jurisdictions, whether or not they elect to follow Bernalillo’s lead in creating an independent mental health clinic. Details: Baltimore, MD: Annie E. Casey Foundation, 2013. 30p. Source: Internet Resource: A Guide to Juvenile Detention Reform, No. 6: Accessed July 26, 013 at: http://www.jdaihelpdesk.org/Featured%20Resources/JDAI%20-%20Bernalillo%20County%20Mental%20Health%20Clinical%20Case%20Study.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://www.jdaihelpdesk.org/Featured%20Resources/JDAI%20-%20Bernalillo%20County%20Mental%20Health%20Clinical%20Case%20Study.pdf Shelf Number: 129405 Keywords: Juvenile DetentionJuvenile Offenders (U.S.)Mental Health Services |
Author: U.S. Government Accountability Office Title: Bureau of Prisons: Timelier Reviews, Plan for Evaluations, and Updated Policies Could Improve Inmate Mental Health Services Oversight Summary: During a 5-year period--fiscal years 2008 through 2012--costs for inmate mental health services in institutions run by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) rose in absolute dollar amount, as well as on an annual per capita basis. Specifically, mental health services costs rose from $123 million in fiscal year 2008 to $146 million in fiscal year 2012, with increases generally due to three factors--inmate population increases, general inflationary increases, and increased participation rates in psychology treatment programs such as drug abuse treatment programs. Additionally, the per capita cost rose from $741 in fiscal year 2008 to $821 in fiscal year 2012. It is projected that these costs will continue to increase with an estimated per capita cost of $876 in fiscal year 2015, due, in part, to increased program funding and inflation. BOP conducts various internal reviews that assess institutions' compliance with its policies related to mental health services, and it also requires institutions to obtain external accreditations. BOP's internal program reviews are on-site audits of a specific program, including two that are relevant to mental health services--psychology and health services. Most institutions in GAO's sample received good or superior ratings on their psychology and health services program reviews, but these reviews did not always occur within BOP-established time frames, generally due to lack of staff availability. When reviews were postponed, delays could be lengthy, sometimes exceeding a year, even for those institutions with the lowest ratings in previous reviews. Moreover, BOP has not evaluated whether most of its psychology treatment programs are meeting their established goals and has not developed a plan to do so. BOP is developing an approach for reporting on the relative reduction in recidivism associated with major inmate programs, which may include some psychology treatment programs. Using this opportunity to develop a plan for evaluating its psychology treatment programs would help ensure that the necessary evaluation activities, as well as any needed program changes, are completed in a timely manner. Further, BOP's program statements--its formal policies--related to mental health services contain outdated information. Policy changes are instead communicated to staff through memos. By periodically updating its program statements, BOP would be better assured that staff have a consistent understanding of its policies, and that these policies reflect current mental health care practices. BOP collects information on the daily cost to house the 13 percent of federal inmates in contract facilities, but it does not track the specific contractor costs of providing mental health services. The performance-based, fixed-price contracts that govern the operation of BOP's contract facilities give flexibility to the contractors to decide how to provide mental health services and do not require that they report their costs for doing so to BOP. BOP uses several methods to assess the contractors' compliance with contract requirements and standards of care. BOP conducts on-site reviews to assess the services provided to inmates in contract facilities, including those for mental health. BOP uses results from these reviews, as well as reports from external accrediting organizations, the presence of on-site monitors, and internal reviews conducted by the contract facility, to assess contractor compliance and to ensure that the contractor is consistently assessing the quality of its operations. Details: Washington, DC: GAO, 2013. 76p. Source: Internet Resource: GAO-13-1: Accessed July 18, 2013 at: http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/655903.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/655903.pdf Shelf Number: 129437 Keywords: Costs of CorrectionsFederal Bureau of Prisons (U.S.)Health CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners |
Author: U.S. Department of Justice. Civil Rights Division Title: Investigation of the State Correctional Institution at Cresson and Notice of Expanded Investigation Summary: The Civil Rights Division has completed its investigation into the conditions of confinement at Pem1sylvania State Correctional Institution at Cresson ("Cresson"), conducted pursuant to the Civil Rights ofInstitutionalized Persons Act ("CRIPA"), 42 U.S.C. § 1997. CRIP A authorizes the Department of Justice to seek equitable relief where prison condition~ violate the constitutional rights of prisoners in state correctional facilities. Consistent with the statutory requirements of CRIP A, we write to inform you of our findings. After carefully reviewing the evidence, we conclude that the maill1er in which Cresson uses isolation on prisoners with serious mental illness violates the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. We also conclude that Cresson uses isolation in a way that violates the rights of prisoners with serious mental illness, as well as prisoners with intellectual disabilities, under Title II ofthe Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA"), 42 U.S.C. §§ 12131-12134. Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, 2013. 39p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 7, 2013 at: http://www.justice.gov/crt/about/spl/documents/cresson_findings_5-31-13.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://www.justice.gov/crt/about/spl/documents/cresson_findings_5-31-13.pdf Shelf Number: 129566 Keywords: Correctional AdministrationMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners (Pennsylvania, U.S.)Solitary Confinement |
Author: Dona Sapp, Brad Ray Title: Traumatic Brain Injury Prevalence: Indiana Department of Correction Prison Population Summary: In Indiana, there is currently no systematic screening for traumatic brain injury (TBI) among incarcerated populations; however, a recent analysis conducted by researchers at the Indiana University Public Policy Institute (PPI) of baseline TBI screening data, collected in fall 2012 by the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC), suggests that nearly 36 percent of offenders in Indiana facilities reported some form of TBI during their lifetime.. This issue brief summarizes the results of the Indiana baseline data analysis, as well as research findings from other states and at the national level, on the prevalence of TBI among incarcerated populations. The brief concludes with a discussion of recommended best practices for diagnosing and treating TBI both pre- and post-release from prison, including recommended next steps for addressing this issue in Indiana. Details: Indianapolis: Indiana University, Public Policy Institute, Center for Criminal Justice Research, 2013. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 7, 2013 at: https://www.policyinstitute.iu.edu/criminal/publicationDetail.aspx?publicationID=735 Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: https://www.policyinstitute.iu.edu/criminal/publicationDetail.aspx?publicationID=735 Shelf Number: 129573 Keywords: Brain InjuryDisabilityMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersNeurological DisordersPrisoners (Indiana, U.S.) |
Author: Revolving Doors Agency Title: Inside Hope: Mental Health Projects in the Criminal Justice System Summary: In 2009, the Trusthouse Charitable Foundation funded ten projects across the UK under its themed grant programme of mental health projects in the criminal justice system. In 2011 Revolving Doors Agency1 was commissioned to undertake research with the beneficiaries of five of the projects - to extract learning from those projects and increase understanding of the dynamic between common mental health problems, social exclusion and offending through first-hand accounts. As a result of this work, we are able to deepen our knowledge of how activities focused on improving mental health may have a wide range of positive outcomes for participants. The five projects examined were: - Throughcare Project run by HOPE, Glasgow - Outlook Project run by New Pathways in Merthyr Tydfil - Bridge the Gap Project run by Plymouth and District Mind, Channings Wood Prison - Community Link Project run by Wish, London and Essex - Get into Reading Project run by the Reader Organisation, Greater Manchester. The research entailed six key strands of work that supported the successful completion of peer researcher interviewing across the five projects: - Peer researcher interview skills training - Visits and information gathering from the projects - Collection of questionnaire responses from project beneficiaries - Focus groups with project beneficiaries - Individual interviews with project beneficiaries - Peer researcher supervision and collection of feedback. Details: London: Revolving Doors Agency, 2013. 84p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 28, 2013 at: http://www.revolving-doors.org.uk/documents/hope-inside/ Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 131500 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.K.) |
Author: Fontanarosa, Joann Title: Interventions for Adult Offenders With Serious Mental Illness Summary: Objective. To comprehensively review the evidence for treatments for offenders with serious mental illness (i.e., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, or major depression) in jail, prison, or forensic hospital, or transitioning from any of these settings to the community (e.g., home, halfway house). Data sources. We searched 12 internal and external databases including MEDLINE, PreMEDLINE, and Embase for the time period January 1, 1990, through August 20, 2012. Review methods. We refined the topic, Key Questions, and protocol with experts in the field and determined the study inclusion criteria and risk-of-bias items a priori. Abstract and full-text review and the risk-of-bias assessment were done in duplicate. A second reviewer verified data extraction. Extracted study information included study design, patient enrollment and baseline characteristics, risk-of-bias items, and outcome data. Because of the nature of the available evidence, we chose to perform a qualitative synthesis rather than meta-analysis. We graded the strength of evidence for each treatment comparison and outcome based on the size, risk of bias, and results of the evidence base. We discussed applicability by focusing on the populations, interventions, and settings of the studies. Results. We included 19 publications describing 16 comparative trials. The studies were conducted in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia. The risk of bias for all reported outcomes was medium for 15 trials and low for 1 trial. For incarceration-based interventions, evidence of low strength favored antipsychotics other than clozapine over treatment with clozapine for improving psychiatric symptoms. For all other incarceration-based interventions assessed - other pharmacologic therapies, cognitive therapy, and modified therapeutic community - evidence was insufficient to draw any conclusions. For individuals transitioning from the incarceration setting to the community, evidence of low strength supported discharge planning with benefit-application assistance and integrated dual disorder treatment compared with standard of care for increasing mental health service use and/or reducing psychiatric hospitalizations. Evidence was insufficient for comparing interventions administered by a forensic specialist with interventions administered by mental health professionals and for comparing interpersonal therapy with psychoeducation for offenders transitioning from incarceration to the community. More comparative trials are needed to increase our confidence in the findings for which the strength of evidence is low and to address the questions for which the evidence was insufficient. Conclusions. We identified some promising treatments for individuals with serious mental illness during incarceration or during transition from incarceration to community settings. Treatment with antipsychotics other than clozapine appears to improve psychiatric symptoms more than clozapine in an incarceration setting. Two interventions, discharge planning with Medicaid-application assistance and integrated dual disorder treatment programs, appear to be effective interventions for seriously mentally ill offenders transitioning back to the community. The applicability of our findings may be limited to the populations and settings in the included studies. Details: Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2013. 249p. Source: Internet Resource: Comparative Effectiveness Review Number 121; Accessed November 13, 2013 at: http://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/ehc/products/406/1644/mental-illness-adults-prisons-report-130820.pdf Year: 2013 Country: International URL: http://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/ehc/products/406/1644/mental-illness-adults-prisons-report-130820.pdf Shelf Number: 131643 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Harrington, Richard Title: Mental Health Needs and Effectiveness of Provision for Young Offenders in Custody and in the Community Summary: Although there is growing literature on the mental health needs of adolescents in the youth justice system, there remain many unanswered questions. Epidemiological cross-sectional studies have revealed high levels of mental health and social needs. However, many of these studies have been small, focusing on specific populations - for example, those in secure care. These young people frequently move within the youth justice system between community and secure sites, but there have been few longitudinal studies describing how their needs change. Such studies - although difficult to conduct - are vital when considering what mental health resources are necessary to meet changing needs. What is also unclear is how the different professional organisations can work together in order to provide effective interventions, both to reduce offending behaviour and also improve the mental health and wellbeing of young offenders. The research described here was conducted during a period of rapid change in the youth justice system. For example, our previous study commented on the lack of mental health and educational provision in secure facilities (Kroll et al, 2002). At the time of the study, youth offending teams (Yots) had only just been established. However, since then, there have been numerous changes. Yots are now well established, with their own national standards and targets, and the sentencing of young offenders has changed considerably - for example, with the introduction of the Intensive Supervision and Surveillance Programme (ISSP) and Detention and Training Orders (DTOs). There is also increasing emphasis on mental health screening, and providing interventions to reduce offending. In this context of continuing change, the Youth Justice Board commissioned us to conduct a national study on the mental health needs of young offenders in custody and in the community. We were also asked to describe models of service provision, and to comment on examples of good practice - particularly, what interventions work to reduce mental health needs and offending behaviour. The specific aims of the study were: to describe the overall mental health and psychosocial needs of young offenders - both in custody and in the community - and to identify how needs vary according to gender, ethnicity and placement (custody versus community) to describe models of mental health provision available for young offenders, and examples of good practice to evaluate continuity of care, and how needs change as young offenders move from custody into the community to identify whether mental health needs predict future offending to assess financial costs for service provision for young offenders to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to reduce offending behaviour and address mental health needs. This report is divided into three sections. a. current models of service provision and principles of good practice b. costs and needs data from the research survey c. a summary of what works with young offenders in addressing mental health needs and offending behaviour. Details: London: Youth Justice Board for England and Wales, 2005. 103p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 13, 2013 at: http://www.yjb.gov.uk/publications/Resources/Downloads/MentalHealthNeedsfull.pdf Year: 2005 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.yjb.gov.uk/publications/Resources/Downloads/MentalHealthNeedsfull.pdf Shelf Number: 131658 Keywords: Juvenile Offenders (U.K.)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Lewis, Cath Title: Health Needs Assessment of Young Offenders in the Youth Justice System on Merseyside Summary: This is a health needs assessment (HNA) of young offenders aged 10-19 on Merseyside. It covers the areas of Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens, Wirral, and, Halton. It includes young offenders in secure children's homes (SCH), secure training centres (STC), and young offender institutions (YOI), as well as those who are being managed in the community by Merseyside Youth Offending Services (YOSs). The National Institute for Clinical excellence (NICE) defines health needs assessment (HNA) as 'a systematic method for reviewing the health issues facing a population, leading to agreed priorities and resource allocation that will improve health and reduce inequalities'. A HNA is a vital part of planning and commissioning health care and other services and support to promote well-being. It builds up a clear baseline of current needs and services, so that decisions can be made about how to reduce any mismatch between what is needed and what is provided. Background information This HNA assessment covers young people up to the age of 19, as some 18 year olds remain in the secure estate for children and young people until the age of 19 if they only have a short period of their sentence still to serve. According to the Youth Justice Board, in November 2012, 1,692 children aged 18 or under were in custody, with 1,551 of these under the age of 18. 96% of the latter were male, and 4% were female, so males are over-represented in this population. Young people from ethnic minority backgrounds are over-represented among children in custody - 58.6% of these young people were white, 20.5% were Black, 8.2% were of Mixed ethnicity, and 7.0% were Asian. Young offenders experience health that is worse than other people of their age, particularly in terms of behavioural and mental health problems. The Bradley Report highlighted the disproportionately high number of people with learning disabilities and mental health problems in the criminal justice system. Of prisoners aged 16-20, around 85% show signs of a personality disorder and 10% show signs of psychotic illness, which is far higher than in the population as a whole. Details: Liverpool: Liverpool Public Health Observatory. 2013. 39p. Source: Internet Resource: Liverpool Public Health Observatory report series number 92: Accessed November 13, 2013 at: http://www.liv.ac.uk/PublicHealth/obs/publications/report/92%20Health%20needs%20assessment%20for%20young%20offenders%20on%20Merseyside.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.liv.ac.uk/PublicHealth/obs/publications/report/92%20Health%20needs%20assessment%20for%20young%20offenders%20on%20Merseyside.pdf Shelf Number: 131659 Keywords: Health ServicesJuvenile Offenders ( U.K.)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Victorian Ombudsman Title: Investigation into Deaths and Harm in Custody Summary: The State owes a duty of care to every person detained in custody to ensure their safety and wellbeing. For example, in the Victorian prison system the Secretary of the Department of Justice has a statutory duty to ensure the safe custody and welfare of prisoners and offenders in the Secretary's custody. There are a number of rights that are engaged under the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 when a person is detained in custody, including a person's right to humane treatment and the right not to be arbitrarily deprived of life. The Victorian community should have confidence in what happens behind the closed doors of custodial facilities - that detainees are managed in a fair and consistent manner; that they are treated with dignity and respect for their human rights; and that those responsible for caring for detainees are held accountable for their actions. Many people in custody are vulnerable, often with complex social, legal and medical histories. Each year a number of people die in custody, while many more experience some form of harm, injury or illness. For over 40 years, the welfare of people in custody has been a concern of the Victorian Ombudsman. In a number of my reports to Parliament I have identified concerns about the treatment of people in custody and made recommendations to address such concerns. Given continuing overcrowding in Victorian prisons and police cells, coinciding with an increase in the number of prisoner deaths in 2012-13, I decided that an own motion investigation into deaths in Victorian custodial facilities was warranted. My investigation focussed on Victorian prisons, police cells, the youth justice precincts and the secure psychiatric hospital for people with serious mental illness admitted under the Mental Health Act 1986. Details: Melbourne: Victorian Ombudsman, 2014. 152p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 21, 2014 at: https://www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au/getattachment/2998b6e6-491a-4dfe-b081-9d86fe4d4921/reports-publications/parliamentary-reports/investigation-into-deaths-and-harm-in-custody.aspx Year: 2014 Country: Australia URL: https://www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au/getattachment/2998b6e6-491a-4dfe-b081-9d86fe4d4921/reports-publications/parliamentary-reports/investigation-into-deaths-and-harm-in-custody.aspx Shelf Number: 132095 Keywords: Deaths in CustodyInmate DeathsMental Health ServicesPrison OvercrowdingPrisonersSuicide |
Author: Torrey, E. Fuller Title: The Treatment of Persons with Mental Illness in Prisons and Jails: A State Survey Summary: Prisons and jails have become America's "new asylums": The number of individuals with serious mental illness in prisons and jails now exceeds the number in state psychiatric hospitals tenfold. Most of the mentally ill individuals in prisons and jails would have been treated in the state psychiatric hospitals in the years before the deinstitutionalization movement led to the closing of the hospitals, a trend that continues even today. The treatment of mentally ill individuals in prisons and jails is critical, especially since such individuals are vulnerable and often abused while incarcerated. Untreated, their psychiatric illness often gets worse, and they leave prison or jail sicker than when they entered. Individuals in prison and jails have a right to receive medical care, and this right pertains to serious mental illness just as it pertains to tuberculosis, diabetes, or hypertension. This right to treatment has been affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court. The Treatment of Persons with Mental Illness in Prisons and Jails is the first national survey of such treatment practices. It focuses on the problem of treating seriously mentally ill inmates who refuse treatment, usually because they lack awareness of their own illness and do not think they are sick. What are the treatment practices for these individuals in prisons and jails in each state? What are the consequences if such individuals are not treated? To address these questions, an extensive survey of professionals in state and county corrections systems was undertaken. Sheriffs, jail administrators, and others who were interviewed for the survey expressed compassion for inmates with mental illness and frustration with the mental health system that is failing them. Details: Arlington, VA: Treatment Advocacy Center, 2014. 116p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 6, 2014 at: http://www.tacreports.org/storage/documents/treatment-behind-bars/treatment-behind-bars.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://www.tacreports.org/storage/documents/treatment-behind-bars/treatment-behind-bars.pdf Shelf Number: 132260 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners |
Author: Torrey, E. Fuller Title: Justifiable Homicides by Law Enforcement Officers: What is the Role of Mental Illness? Summary: As a consequence of the failed mental illness treatment system, an increasing number of individuals with untreated serious mental illness are encountering law enforcement officers, sometimes with tragic results. "Justifiable homicides," in which an individual is killed by a law enforcement officer in the line of duty, may occur when criminals are being pursued, as in a bank robbery, or when an officer is threatened with a weapon, in other situations. We assessed available data on justifiable homicides between 1980 and 2008 and found the following: - Although the total number of justifiable homicides decreased by 5% between 1980 and 2008, those resulting from an attack on a law enforcement officer increased by 67%, from an average of 153 to 255 such homicides per year. - Although no national data is collected, multiple informal studies and accounts support the conclusion that "at least half of the people shot and killed by police each year in this country have mental health problems." - There are suggestions that many of the mentally ill individuals who were shot were not taking their medications. Some of them were also well-known to the law enforcement officers from previous encounters. - Studies suggest that approximately one-third of the shootings by law enforcement officers results from the victim attempting to commit "suicide-by-cop." - The transfer of responsibility for persons with mental illness from mental health professionals to law enforcement officers is both illogical and unfair and harms both the patients and the officers. In view of these conditions, it is recommended that: - The Department of Justice resolve to collect more complete and detailed information on justifiable homicides. - Mental health agencies be clearly assigned the ultimate responsibility for the care of persons with mental illness in their communities and held accountable for providing it. - More widespread use be made of assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) under which at-risk individuals who meet criteria established by the state are court-ordered to remain in treatment as a condition of living in the community - in the 45 states where it is authorized. - The five states without AOT laws on their books (Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Tennessee) enact and use them. Details: Arlington, VA: Treatment Advocacy Center and National Sheriffs' Association, 2013. 20p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 7, 2014 at: http://tacreports.org/storage/documents/2013-justifiable-homicides.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://tacreports.org/storage/documents/2013-justifiable-homicides.pdf Shelf Number: 132264 Keywords: HomicidesMental Health ServicesMentally IllMentally Ill OffendersPolice Use of Force |
Author: Stevens, Jack Title: Aftercare Services for Juvenile Parolees with Mental Disorders: A Collaboration Between the Ohio Department of Youth Services (DYS) and Columbus Childrens Research Institute Summary: The purpose of this study was to examine aftercare services available to juvenile parolees after release from correctional facilities. Youth (162) assigned to a mental health caseload were interviewed and assessed within 60 days of release. A declining number were also interviewed at one (60), three (38), and six (24) months post release. About two thirds of youth met criteria for one or more disorder diagnoses prior to release. About 40% of the initial sample were rearrested within six months of release. About two thirds of those interviewed had received some sort of mental health services one month after release. Details: Final report to the U.S. National Institute of Justice, 2007. 40p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 7, 2014 at: https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/245574.pdf Year: 2007 Country: United States URL: https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/245574.pdf Shelf Number: 132270 Keywords: Juvenile AftercareJuvenile OffendersJuvenile ParoleesJuvenile ReentryMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Desai, Anita Title: Towards an Integrated Network. Working Together to Avoid Criminalization of People with Mental Health Problems. 2nd ed. Summary: In 2006, St. Leonard's Society of Canada (SLSC) and the Canadian Criminal Justice Association (CCJA) designed a national initiative to identify the elements and means that can contribute to reducing the criminalization of individuals with mental health problems. This initiative, Towards a Model Community Mental Health Strategy, was an interactive community-based project that brought together service providers, researchers and academics to share experiences and knowledge about mental health programs and services. In 2007, four fora were held in Vancouver, Calgary, Kingston and Halifax that brought together concerned experts from health, mental health, law, corrections and law enforcement. The participants met to learn, innovate, and become familiar with services in their region. During the sessions, participants also contributed to the development of a community-based approach to stimulate cohesive, integrated, knowledge-based responses that would reduce the criminalization of people with mental health problems. Participants and advisors identified a perspective of change, reduction of stigma and discrimination, development of community capacity, and promotion of a continuum of care as the core tenets underlying the necessary first steps to addressing the intersections between criminal justice and mental health. This broad-based approach, presented and explored here, must be credited to the rich dialogue and national collaboration that took place among everyone involved. This edition of Towards an Integrated Network features updated information and promising practices. It also includes an updated research section as well as policy considerations which affect the criminalization of persons with mental health problems and illnesses. This section outlines some of the background issues faced by the service delivery systems, which contribute to the challenge of creating an integrated network. It is our hope that the information contained in this report will help to forge new routes towards this goal. Details: Ottawa: St. Leonard's Society of Canada, 2013. 111p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 15, 2014 at: http://www.stleonards.ca/sitefiles/Towards%20an%20Integrated%20Network%20Second%20Edition_2013.pdf Year: 2013 Country: Canada URL: http://www.stleonards.ca/sitefiles/Towards%20an%20Integrated%20Network%20Second%20Edition_2013.pdf Shelf Number: 132360 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill (Canada)Mentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Joplin, Lore Title: Mapping the Criminal Justice System to Connect Justice-Involved Individuals with Treatment and Health Care under the Affordable Care Act Summary: By working together to build a visual portrait of how individuals progress through the criminal justice system, health and justice stakeholders gain better understanding of their respective policies and practices. In addition, mapping allows jurisdictions to consider decision points throughout the entire criminal justice system when exploring opportunities to enroll criminal justice-involved individuals in insurance coverage. This guide is for states and local jurisdictions interested in using system mapping to maximize opportunities for criminal justice and health care system integration and efficiency through the ACA " (p. 3). Sections comprising this document include: the Affordable Care Act (ACA) at a glance; the need for a systems mapping process; the NIC Sample Decision Points Map; and the seven steps of the criminal justice/ACA mapping process. "General health and behavioral health issues with criminal justice-involved individuals intersect. Hence, it is critical that the needs of the population are considered as jurisdictions develop policies and processes to implement the ACA at state and local levels. Bringing together stakeholders from criminal justice, health care, and behavioral health care systems for dialogue around these issues builds increased understanding and collaboration across systems. Using the ACA to do a better job of delivering health care and behavioral health care services to this population not only improves the health of our communities, but makes them safer" (p. 11). Appendixes provide: Sample Intercept Map for ACA Eligibility/Enrollment Priorities; Completed Intercept Map for ACA Eligibility/Enrollment Priorities in Connecticut; and Action Plan Template Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Corrections, 2014. 21p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 11, 2014 at: https://s3.amazonaws.com/static.nicic.gov/Library/028222.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: https://s3.amazonaws.com/static.nicic.gov/Library/028222.pdf Shelf Number: 132646 Keywords: Affordable Care Act Health Care Inmates Medical Care Mental Health ServicesPrisoners |
Author: Ogloff, James R.P. Title: Koori Prisoner Mental Health and Cognitive Function Study Summary: The Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science at Monash University (CFBS) and the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) were engaged by the Department of Justice to examine the mental health, cognitive functioning, and social and emotional wellbeing of Koori prisoners in Victoria. The study arose from the policies and priorities articulated by the original Aboriginal Justice Agreement (AJA) released in 2000 to address Koori overrepresentation in the criminal justice system and the expanded AJA2 of 2006. The study was jointly overseen by Justice Health and the Koori Justice Unit. The project firstly sought to conduct a thorough assessment of needs from the perspective of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners in Victoria, and secondly, to gain an understanding of the service gaps and needs from the perspective of key stakeholders in Victoria. To this end, the aims of the project were to: - Identify the Social and Emotional Well-Being (SEWB) strengths and needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners, including levels of psychological distress - Identify the nature and extent of mental illness for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners and their associated needs- Assess the cognitive functioning of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners and their associated needs- Identify barriers to accessing services and other potential gaps in meeting identified needs- Develop recommendations for improving current service systems and clinical practice Details: Clifton Hill, VIC: Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science, Monash University, 2013. 155p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 31, 2014 at: https://assets.justice.vic.gov.au/corrections/resources/07c438bf-63a6-49bb-8426-d7fd073808a6/koori_prisoner_mental_health.pdf Year: 2013 Country: Australia URL: https://assets.justice.vic.gov.au/corrections/resources/07c438bf-63a6-49bb-8426-d7fd073808a6/koori_prisoner_mental_health.pdf Shelf Number: 120181 Keywords: AboriginalsMedical CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoners (Australia) |
Author: Warnken, Heather Title: Untold Stories of California Crime Victims: Research and Recommendations on Repeat Victimization and Rebuilding Lives Summary: Some of California's most vulnerable crime victims did not receive the healing they needed because they weren't aware of trauma-recovery services or didn't think they were getting adequate access, according to a new report by a Berkeley Law research center. The report, released this week by the Chief Justice Earl Warren Institute on Law and Social Policy, highlights the gap that exists between service providers and victims, including those who were repeatedly victimized. It recommends that policy-makers support counseling, job, and housing services, particularly in communities that are most affected by violence. Untold Stories of California Crime Victims uses new research and focus-group interviews with several crime victims in Los Angeles, San Joaquin, and Sacramento counties to give a voice to the injured, said report author Heather Warnken, a legal policy associate. The report singles out San Francisco General Hospital's Trauma Recovery Center as a model for communities to follow. The center, opened in 2001 as a project of UC San Francisco and the hospital, helps victims of sexual assault, violence at home, and other traumas. More than three-quarters of the center's clients have shown improved mental health and more than half are more likely to return to work, according to the Berkeley Law report. The model has expanded to Los Angeles County. Among the report's findings: -Many repeat victims are reluctant to report their cases because they don't trust law enforcement; -Many of the victims interviewed in the focus groups said their relationships with first responders other than police were more positive than those with law enforcement; -People repeatedly traumatized by violence developed other problems over time, such as substance abuse. The report's recommendations include: 'Building trust with law enforcement officials and agencies in communities burdened by violence; -Promoting access for crime victims to services that emphasize creative expression, movement and exercise, in addition to counseling. Details: Berkeley, CA: University of California, Berkeley School of Law, Chief Justice Earl Warren Institute on Law and Social Policy, 2014. 28p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 13, 2014 at: http://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/WI_CA_Untold_Stories_03_31_14_lo_res_Final.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/WI_CA_Untold_Stories_03_31_14_lo_res_Final.pdf Shelf Number: 133039 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesRepeat VictimizationVictims of Crime (California) |
Author: Harvey, Shannon Title: Case by Case: Refuge provision in London for survivors of domestic violence who use alcohol and other drugs or have mental health problems Summary: Not long after the inception of the Stella Project in 2002, a survey of Women's Aid refuges found that just 13% would always accept women with mental health or drug or alcohol needs, while another 48% said that they would sometimes take these women, depending on other factors (Barron, 2004). Over the intervening decade, we have witnessed greater recognition of the intersections between the issues and seen many examples of increased partnership working across the domestic violence, substance use and mental health sectors. Despite the many positive changes, however, one of the most persistent concerns raised by practitioners is the lack of refuge space for women who are affected by substance use and/or mental ill-health. This study aimed to provide an updated picture of access to refuge services for this group of survivors. This was achieved through: - Telephone or face-to-face interviews with London-based refuge service providers (n=30) about their policies on accommodating women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems. - Freedom of information requests to all London boroughs (excluding the City of Westminster) in April 2012 and August 2013 about the number of women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems accommodated in refuges in the borough in the previous twelve months. The key findings were: - Most boroughs (n=18) include some level of requirement to support women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems within service specifications for refuge provision. This sometimes a specific requirement or a more generic 'expectation' that all survivors would be supported and that problematic substance use or mental ill-health would not constitute an absolute exclusion criteria. - Only two boroughs actively exclude women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems from the refuges they fund. - Most refuges fulfil the requirements in their service specification by operating a 'case by case' basis for assessing the needs and risks of potential service users. - Many refuges do, however, operate a partial blanket policy relating to certain types of substance use and/or mental health problems, most commonly women using opiates (including methadone) and those who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder or dementia. - Only seventeen (53.1%) of 32 local authorities were able to provide full or partial information on the number of domestic violence survivors accommodated by their refuge providers in the past year who had identified problems with drugs and/or alcohol and mental health needs. - In 2012 and 2013 these 17 boroughs accommodated, at most, 239 women with identified problems in relation to alcohol or drug use or mental health. - Only 14 boroughs could provide information about the number of women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems were refused access to refuge accommodation in their borough. Details: London: AVA (Against Violence & Abuse) and Solace Women's Aid, 2014. 59p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 22, 2014 at: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/148039/case%20by%20case%20-%20london%20refuge%20provision%20-%20final.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/148039/case%20by%20case%20-%20london%20refuge%20provision%20-%20final.pdf Shelf Number: 132029 Keywords: Alcohol AbuseDomestic Violence (U.K.)Drug AbuseMental Health ServicesVictim ServicesViolence Against Women |
Author: White, Michael D. Title: Arizona Arrestee Reporting Information Network: 2013 Maricopa County Attorney's Office Report: The Prevalence and Problem of Military Veterans in the Maricopa County Arrestee Population. Summary: This report seeks to address the knowledge gap in understanding the relationship between combat-related conditions such as PTSD and TBI and involvement in the criminal justice system, through an examination of 1,370 recently booked arrestees in Maricopa County, Arizona. Using interview data from the Arizona Arrestee Reporting Information Network (AARIN), the report characterizes the problems and prior experiences of military veterans, and compares veteran and nonveteran arrestees along a range of demographic, background and criminal behavior measures. The overall objectives of the report are to provide an ongoing estimate of the prevalence of military veterans in the Maricopa County arrestee population and to assess the extent to which the arrested veterans differ from the larger arrestee population. Details: Phoenix AZ: Center for Violence Prevention and Community Safety, Arizona State University, 2013. 22p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 25, 2014 at: http://cvpcs.asu.edu/sites/default/files/content/products/AARIN%20County%20Attorney%202013.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://cvpcs.asu.edu/sites/default/files/content/products/AARIN%20County%20Attorney%202013.pdf Shelf Number: 133136 Keywords: Arrestees (Arizona)Mental Health ServicesMilitary VeteransOffendersSubstance Abuse |
Author: Randall, Megan Title: From Recidivism to Recovery: The Case for Peer Support in Texas Correctional Facilities Summary: Transforming the relationship between criminal justice and mental health in Texas requires innovative policy and program models that successfully integrate the principles of mental health recovery into the criminal justice system - countering the traditionally punitive criminal justice framework with the recovery-oriented principles of hope, wellness, personal responsibility, and empowered self-direction. In this paper, we explore the use of mental health peer support services as one way to support recovery, improve continuity of care, and reduce recidivism for inmates with mental illness during the re-entry process. We present a successful peer support re-entry program model, established in Pennsylvania, and offer preliminary suggestions for a Texas pilot project. We also offer policy recommendations that, if implemented, would broadly improve access to mental health services, ease re-entry transitions for inmates with mental illness, and enhance the viability of peer support re-entry programming. We intend for our recommendations to be a first step toward more extensive stakeholder discussion and research on this issue. It is our hope that this paper will catalyze conversation about the steps Texas must take to integrate recovery into its justice system and provide national policy leadership in a growing field at the pivotal intersection between mental health and criminal justice. Details: Austin, TX: Center for Public Policy Priorities, 2014. 44p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 9, 2014 at: http://forabettertexas.org/images/HC_2014_07_RE_PeerSupport.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://forabettertexas.org/images/HC_2014_07_RE_PeerSupport.pdf Shelf Number: 133625 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrisoner ReentryPrisoners (Texas) |
Author: Baker, David Title: Unlocking Care: Continuing mental health care for prisoners and their families Summary: There were 30,775 prisoners in Australia at the end of June 2013 - an increase of five per cent on the 2012 census conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Almost six out of ten (58 per cent) prisoners had previously served a sentence as an adult. The cost of housing a prisoner in 2012-13 was $297 per day. In comparison, annual expenditure on mental health-related services in 2011‑12 was $322 per person - less than a dollar a day. State and territories provided 61 per cent of this funding. The prison population has higher rates of mental illness than the wider population. While treatment in prison can improve a person's mental health, it appears that, for some, mental health deteriorates after release. Mental health support is, therefore, an important service for people returning to the community. If people are re-offending and returning to the prison system in part due to a failure to provide adequate mental health services following release, improvements make sense. The difference in cost for community mental health services and imprisonment provides a budget window for increased spending to improve mental health services. This paper outlines the case for a new model of continued mental health care from prison out into the community. Among the general population one in ten Australians (11 per cent) registers a high or very high level of psychological distress, suggesting they may have moderate or severe mental health issues. In comparison the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has reported that almost a third (31 per cent) of prison entrants in 2012 had a high or very high level of psychological distress. Almost one in four (38 per cent) people entering prison in 2012 had previously been told they had a mental health disorder. The rate of referrals to prison mental health services, however, was only 26 per cent in 2012. This referral rate did not differ for men and women, despite women prisoners having a higher rate of mental illness. At the point of leaving prison, twice as many women (31 per cent) as men (16 per cent) had a high or very high level of psychological distress. In 2012 the level of psychological distress among Indigenous prisoners was 22 per cent of prison entrants and 18 per cent prior to release. The data confirms previous research, both in Australia and internationally, that has shown the incidence of mental illness is higher among prisoner populations. This paper reports that the average level of distress increases after release from prison, reversing evident improvements achieved during imprisonment. More than four in ten people who had been in prison within the previous year had high or very high levels of distress. This rate is higher than that reported by the AIHW for people entering prison and among those preparing to leave. For some people negative mental health outcomes present following release which were not evident in the lead-up to leaving prison. For people suffering a mental illness, the move back into the community can worsen psychiatric symptoms - contributing to greater difficulties adjusting to the change. The mental wellbeing of those leaving prison is better than that of people entering prison, reflecting the ability of prison health services to deliver targeted, appropriate mental health care. The AIHW data shows that prior to release fewer than two in ten (18 per cent) people are likely to continue to have a moderate or severe mental health issue. A majority (91 per cent) of people being discharged from prison in 2012 reported that their mental health and wellbeing had improved. This positive outcome does not appear to apply to women. A UK study found that while the mental health of men improved in the first three months of imprisonment, there was no real change among women. Improvements achieved in prison, however, may not be maintained after release. Analysis of the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey provides a third measurement of the psychological distress of people who had been in prison in the past year. The transition from prison to the community can be a stressful and anxious period for many people. The AIHW has reported that impending release from prison was cited as a reason for psychological distress by almost half (45 per cent) the prisoners assessed as distressed prior to release. Australian research has found that for many people leaving prison there is a continuation of the problems, including mental health issues, faced prior to incarceration. If mental health care provided in prison is not continued after a person's release, their mental health may worsen, undoing any health benefits that may have been achieved while in prison. Details: Canberra City, AUS: Australia Institute, 2014. 26p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 15, 2015 at: http://www.tai.org.au/content/unlocking-care-continuing-mental-health-care-prisoners-and-their-families Year: 2014 Country: Australia URL: http://www.tai.org.au/content/unlocking-care-continuing-mental-health-care-prisoners-and-their-families Shelf Number: 134316 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (Australia)Prisoners |
Author: Hughes, Karen Title: The mental health needs of gang-affiliated young people Summary: Executive summary - Research is beginning to expose the high burden of mental illness faced by young people involved with gangs. Gang members are at increased risk of a range of mental health conditions including conduct disorder, antisocial personality disorder, anxiety, psychosis and drug and alcohol dependence (section 2) - The links between gang-affiliation and poor mental health can operate in both directions. Poor mental wellbeing can draw young people to gangs while gang involvement can negatively impact on an individual's mental health (section 3) - Violence is an inherent part of gang culture and gang members are at increased risk of involvement in violence as both perpetrators and victims. Long-term exposure to violence is associated with psychological problems including depression, conduct disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (section 3) - Poor mental health and gang-affiliation share many common risk factors, often relating to young people's early life experiences and the environments in which they grow up. The more risk factors young people are exposed to the greater their vulnerability to negative outcomes (section 4) - Girls involved with gangs can be particularly vulnerable to mental health problems resulting from sexual and intimate partner violence (section 5) Preventing the development of risk factors and promoting mental wellbeing in young people requires a life course approach that supports parents and families and encourages healthy development from the very earliest stages of life (section 6) - Programmes such as home visiting, parenting programmes, preschool programmes and school-based social and emotional development programmes can protect children from the risk factors for gang involvement and poor mental health, including parental stress, exposure to violence and behavioural problems (section 6). - Evidence-based, relevant, accessible and non-stigmatising community interventions should be available in gang-affected areas to promote health and emotional wellbeing, support recovery from mental illness and help young people move away from harmful gang-related activities (section 7) - Gang-affiliated young people may experience particular barriers to engaging with mental health and other services. Novel approaches are required, including the provision of holistic support in young peoples' own environments and the use of key workers or mentors who are able to build trusting relationships with young people involved with gangs (section 7). - Effectively addressing the relationships between gang-affiliation and poor mental health requires a strong, collaborative approach that co-ordinates services across a wide range of organisations. Health services, local authorities, schools, criminal justice agencies and communities all have an important role to play in promoting healthy social and emotional development in children and young people and ensuring vulnerable young people affected by gangs and poor mental health receive the support they require. Details: London: Public Health England, 2015. 42p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 3, 2015 at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/398674/The_mental_health_needs_of_gang-affiliated_young_people_v3_23_01_1.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/398674/The_mental_health_needs_of_gang-affiliated_young_people_v3_23_01_1.pdf Shelf Number: 134520 Keywords: Gangs (U.K.)Mental HealthMental Health ServicesYouth Gangs |
Author: Equality and Human Rights Commission Title: Preventing Deaths in Detention of Adults with Mental Health Conditions: An Inquiry Summary: Our Inquiry was launched in June 2014 to examine how compliance with human rights obligations can reduce 'non-natural' deaths of adults with mental health conditions in state detention. We looked at deaths in three state detention settings - prisons, police cells and hospitals - consulting with inspectorates, regulators and others with responsibilities in this area. The Equality and Human Rights Commission's (the Commission's) Inquiry examined the available evidence in relation to the deaths of 367 adults with mental health conditions who died of 'non-natural' causes while in police cells or as detained patients over the period 2010-13, plus a further 295 who died in prison custody, many of whom also had mental health conditions. This is a large number in itself, yet for each individual who died there are family members and other loved ones who suffer as a result of these deaths. Previous inquiries, investigations, inquests and court cases have established that, too often, the circumstances surrounding deaths in detention involve breaches of people's most basic human rights - including the right to life. We wanted to establish whether a focus on increased compliance with Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, including the State's positive obligation to protect people's life, would reduce avoidable deaths. One in four British adults experience at least one mental health condition, and one in six are experiencing a mental health condition at any given time. Some people will experience more than one mental health condition. While many people continue to lead productive and fulfilling lives with very little involvement from the State, the Government recognises its role to provide specific care for people experiencing mental health conditions at a time of vulnerability. Details: Manchester, UK: Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2015. 84p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 26, 2015 at: http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/sites/default/files/publication_pdf/Adult%20Deaths%20in%20Detention%20Inquiry%20Report.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/sites/default/files/publication_pdf/Adult%20Deaths%20in%20Detention%20Inquiry%20Report.pdf Shelf Number: 134723 Keywords: Deaths in Custody (U.K.)Medical CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Campbell, Sarah Title: Same Old...the experiences of young offenders with mental health needs Summary: Despite the numerous reports, enquiries, policy documents, expert reference groups, working parties, consultations, white papers, Bills, Acts of Parliament and changes of government, we are still repeating the same old story - that the provision of mental health services for young people at risk of or engaged with offending behaviour is woefully inadequate. This report sits aside from its many predecessors in that it cuts through all the policy and legislation and talks directly to those people who matter the most: the young people and the professionals that work alongside them. They told us that: - Waiting lists are too long resulting in young people self-medicating with drugs and alcohol while they wait to access services thus exacerbating their mental ill health and offending behaviour. - Rigid criteria for mental health services means young people have to be enduring a severe and debilitating mental illness before they can access any type of help or support. - There is still a gap in service provision between young people's and adult mental health services meaning many young people are slipping through the net and lacking support at a vulnerable time in their development. - If a young person manages to receive support, it is largely centred around medication. Following prescription, young people are left lacking medication reviews, support or intervention. - In the rare occasions where intervention extends beyond medication, professionals have little time for young people and a high turnover of staff means a lack of staff continuity making it difficult for the young person to establish rapport or trust. Details: London: Barrow Cadbury Trust, 2013. 51p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 18, 2015 at: http://www.youngminds.org.uk/assets/0000/9472/Barrow_Cadbury_Report.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.youngminds.org.uk/assets/0000/9472/Barrow_Cadbury_Report.pdf Shelf Number: 134960 Keywords: Juvenile Offenders (U.K.)Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersYouth At Risk |
Author: Skorek, Rebecca Title: Influence of court-ordered forensic evaluations on juvenile justice system-involved youth Summary: This evaluation measured implementation and impact of the Detention to Probation Continuum of Care (DPCC) program administered through a collaboration of River Valley Detention Center (RVDC) mental health staff, and Will and Kankakee county juvenile court judges and probation officers. In 2011, RVDC had 667 youth admissions between the ages of 10 and 17, with an estimated 50 percent released into the community under court supervision monitored by a probation officer. The DPCC program has three phases: 1. Institutional phase, in which youth receive mental health screening while in detention. The mental health screening is administered by RVDC mental health staff to identify factors among detained youth that may be leading to delinquency, ascertain if there are any mental health disorders present, and establish appropriate in-detention care, including prescription of psychotropic medications. A mental health screening can only be completed if RVDC mental health staff were able to meet with the detained youth prior to their release. 2. Structured phase, which is the completion of a court-ordered forensic evaluation by RVDC mental health staff. This evaluation is ordered by the juvenile court judge during a youth's detention hearing occurring within 40 hours of detention admission. The forensic evaluation is conducted for the purpose of developing a rehabilitative plan to guide sentencing conditions and supervision in the least restrictive manner. The mental health screen provides a foundation for the court-ordered forensic evaluation. 3. Reintegration phase, which begins when the judge receives the forensic evaluation report at the youth's adjudication hearing and ends at completion of the probation supervision. The forensic evaluation report includes a rehabilitative plan that describes appropriate community-based treatment services, such as counseling or psychiatric treatment, to be judicially imposed through conditions of probation. Completion of community-based care is monitored by a Will or Kankakee county probation officer. ICJIA researchers used two methods to conduct this evaluation. One method was interviews with stakeholders to gain a better understanding of DPCC program activities and the utility of court-ordered forensic evaluations. The second method was analysis of detention and probation data on a sample of 211 youth who were detained at RVDC between 2003 and 2009 and discharged from Will and Kankakee probation between 2007 and 2009. These data allowed ICJIA researchers to assess the extent to which these youth progressed through the DPCC program phases and to track their compliance with sentencing conditions, and subsequent detention admissions and arrests. Research questions to measure program implementation included: - Institutional phaseXTo what extent did those juvenile detainees who were ultimately eligible for probation-based mental health treatment receive a mental health screen? - Structured phaseXTo what extent did those juvenile detainees who were ultimately eligible for probation-based mental health treatment receive a court-ordered forensic evaluation (were DPCC program enrolled/participants)? - Reintegration phaseXTo what extent did conditions of probation regarding community-based treatment services reflect the rehabilitative plan developed through the court-ordered forensic evaluation? Research questions to measure program impact included: - To what extent did receiving a court-ordered forensic evaluation influence conditions of probation regarding community-based treatment services? - To what extent did those receiving a court-ordered forensic evaluation receive indicated treatment services and subsequently have higher rates of compliance with judicially imposed conditions of probation, and fewer detention admissions and arrests? - To what extent did moderate/high risk juvenile probationers with mental health needs receive a mental health screen and/or court-ordered forensic evaluation - To what extent did moderate/high risk juvenile probationers with mental health needs complete appropriate community-based treatment services? Details: Chicago: Criminal Justice Information Authority, 2014. 119p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 26, 2015 at: http://www.icjia.state.il.us/public/pdf/ResearchReports/RVDCMHP_122014.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://www.icjia.state.il.us/public/pdf/ResearchReports/RVDCMHP_122014.pdf Shelf Number: 135073 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCommunity SupervisionCommunity-Based TreatmentJuvenile DetentionJuvenile Offenders (Illinois)Juvenile ProbationersMental Health Services |
Author: Victoria. Auditor General Title: Mental Health Strategies for the Justice System Summary: The increasing incidence of people living with mental illness in the community means that justice and health agencies are experiencing significant challenges. There are increasing interactions between people with a mental illness and criminal justice agencies, and a lack of capacity to adequately respond to and manage these needs. Justice and health agencies recognise the importance of addressing mental health issues within the criminal justice system. All have implemented initiatives that aim to improve outcomes, but significant gaps remain. There is currently no overarching strategy or leadership for mental health and the justice system that focuses on improving outcomes for people with a mental illness. Where plans do exist, they are limited to agencies own areas of responsibility, or only address parts of the justice system. While there is evidence of agencies working together, this is neither uniform nor sufficiently coordinated to address mental illness effectively. Responsibility for coordinating the agencies is unclear, and there is a lack of accountability for the success or failure of responses across the criminal justice system. This is likely to further limit the effectiveness of coordination, collaboration and planning, as actions rely on individual agencies, their relationships and their ability to take a system-wide perspective. Details: Melbourne: Victorian Government Printer, 2014. 94p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 1, 2015 at: http://www.audit.vic.gov.au/publications/20141015-MH-Strategies-Justice/20141015-MH-Strategies-Justice.pdf Year: 2014 Country: Australia URL: http://www.audit.vic.gov.au/publications/20141015-MH-Strategies-Justice/20141015-MH-Strategies-Justice.pdf Shelf Number: 135125 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill Persons |
Author: Kim, KiDeuk Title: The Processing and Treatment of Mentally Ill Persons in the Criminal Justice System Summary: Mentally ill offenders possess a unique set of circumstances and needs. However, all too often, they cycle through the criminal justice system without appropriate care to address their mental health. Their recurring involvement in the criminal justice system is a pressing concern. This report provides a national landscape on the processing and treatment of mentally ill individuals in the criminal justice system. It also highlights challenges involved in the reintegration of mentally ill offenders into society, the diversity of policies and protocols in state statutes to address such challenges, and promising criminal justice interventions for mentally ill offenders. Details: Washington, DC: Urban Institute, 2015. 58p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 9, 2015 at: http://www.urban.org/UploadedPDF/2000173-The-Processing-and-Treatment-of-Mentally-Ill-Persons-in-the-Criminal-Justice-System.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://www.urban.org/UploadedPDF/2000173-The-Processing-and-Treatment-of-Mentally-Ill-Persons-in-the-Criminal-Justice-System.pdf Shelf Number: 135198 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders (U.S.) |
Author: Halacas, C. Title: Keeping our mob healthy in and out of prison: Exploring Prison Health in Victoria to Improve Quality, Culturally Appropriate Health Care for Aboriginal People Summary: The prison health system presents an opportunity to improve Aboriginal prisoners' health and wellbeing, diagnose and treat health and mental health problems, and mitigate the effects of harmful behaviours. Improving prison health systems for Aboriginal people can also reduce high rates of postrelease hospitalisation and mortality experienced by Aboriginal prisoners and improve quality of life. Aboriginal prisoners experience higher rates of health and mental health problems than non-Aboriginal prisoners. The impact on prison health care is foreshadowed by consistent increases in the number of Aboriginal people imprisoned in Victoria each year. One in 33 Aboriginal males is imprisoned in Victoria at any one time, and the rate of overrepresentation is increasing for both Aboriginal men and women. More than 50% of Aboriginal people released from Victorian prisons return within two years, which places increasing importance on continuity of care. With large numbers of Aboriginal people moving in and out of the prison system, a strong relationship should exist between prison health services and prisoners' community health and mental health provider. The 28 Aboriginal Community Controlled health Organisations (ACCHOs) and their auspiced organisations across Victoria are located within 55km of all Victorian prisons. ACCHOs are a critical extension of prison health care given Aboriginal prisoners access ACCHOs more frequently than mainstream services in the community. ACCHOs' comprehensive support and engagement of Aboriginal people plays a big part in improving quality of life and improving poor health and mental health outcomes by providing a holistic, healing health service. The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO), with support from the Victorian Government Department of Justice, explored ways to improve continuity of care for Aboriginal people in Victorian prisons and identify ways to improve relationships and partnerships between ACCHOs and prison health services. ACCHOs, prison health services, and Koori support staff members from the Department of Justice were interviewed and their responses analysed for common themes. We found no relationship or partnership between ACCHOs and prison health services interviewed despite policy references requiring it within the Justice Health Policy and Quality Framework (attached to the prison health services contracts). Responses also indicated that prison health service systems were not meeting cultural safety policy standards. ACCHOs identified several areas in need of improvement to assist Aboriginal prisoner health including prisoner release planning and the transfer of health information. Given the low level of contact between ACCHOs and prison health services there were few working examples that could be shared. A list of recommendations based on interview responses, a literature review and exploration of non-Victorian models is presented as a first step in improving health and mental health outcomes for Aboriginal prisoners. Details: Collingwood, VIC: Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, 2015. 50p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 9, 2015 at: http://www.vaccho.org.au/assets/01-RESOURCES/TOPIC-AREA/RESEARCH/KEEPING-OUR-MOB-HEALTHY.pdf Year: 2015 Country: Australia URL: http://www.vaccho.org.au/assets/01-RESOURCES/TOPIC-AREA/RESEARCH/KEEPING-OUR-MOB-HEALTHY.pdf Shelf Number: 135546 Keywords: AboriginalsIndigenous PeoplesInmate HealthMental Health ServicesPrison Health Care |
Author: Human Rights Watch Title: Callous and Cruel: Use of Force against Inmates with Mental Disabilities in US Jails and Prisons Summary: Staff in US correctional facilities are authorized to use force when necessary to control dangerous or highly disruptive prisoners. But officials have used violence needlessly against prisoners diagnosed with mental illness. Callous and Cruel - based on Human Rights Watch's review of several hundred individual and class action court cases and interviews with 125 current and former prison and jail officials, mental health professionals, lawyers, advocates and academics - documents a pattern of unnecessary, excessive, and even malicious force against such prisoners in US prisons and jails. It details incidents in which correctional staff have deluged prisoners with mental disabilities with painful chemical sprays, shocked them with powerful electric stun weapons, and strapped them for days in restraining chairs or beds. Such abuses have taken place in response to minor misconduct such as urinating on the floor, masturbating, complaining about not receiving a meal, refusing to come out of a cell, using profane language, or banging repeatedly on a door. Force is used against prisoners even when their misconduct is symptomatic of their mental health problems and even when those problems prevent them from being able to understand or comply with staff orders. The report concludes with recommendations on ending the abuses, including through improved mental health services in prisons and jails and use of force policies that address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of prisoners with mental disabilities, enforced through proper training, supervision, and accountability mechanisms. Details: New York: HRW, 2015. 133p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 13, 2015 at: http://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/reports/usprisoner0515_ForUpload.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/reports/usprisoner0515_ForUpload.pdf Shelf Number: 135557 Keywords: Correctional InstitutionsDisabilityMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesPrisoner Maltreatment |
Author: Meservey, Fred Title: Caring for Youth with Mental Health Needs in the Juvenile Justice System: Improving Knowledge and Skills Summary: Approximately two-thirds of youth in the care of the juvenile justice system have a diagnosable mental health and/or substance use disorder. Too frequently, staff supervising these youth have received little formal adolescent mental health training and lack the knowledge and skills to provide adequate supervision and care. This can often lead to the use of ineffective and unnecessarily punitive responses to youth which can further exacerbate a youth's symptoms and create stressful situations for all. To address this challenge, the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice (NCMHJJ), with support from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, created and tested a mental health training curriculum for juvenile justice staff. Details: Delmar, NY(?):National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice, 2015. 8p. Source: Internet Resource: Research and Program Brief, vol. 2, no. 2: Accessed May 20, 2015 at: http://cfc.ncmhjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/OJJDP-508-050415-FINAL.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://cfc.ncmhjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/OJJDP-508-050415-FINAL.pdf Shelf Number: 135719 Keywords: Adolescent OffendersJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersSubstance Abuse Treatment |
Author: Stuckey, Skyler Title: Enhancing Public Safety and Saving Taxpayer Dollars: The Role of Mental Health Courts in Texas Summary: Measures that divert suitable offenders with mental illness from lockups to effective treatment programs can produce net savings while furthering public safety and offender accountability. States have begun implementing problem-solving courts to accommodate offenders with specific needs that traditional courts cannot adequately address. These problem-solving courts focus on outcomes that benefit society by reducing crime and saving correction costs. Mental health courts are one of these problem-solving courts designed to reduce recidivism by requiring offenders with mental illness to be directly accountable to the court on an ongoing basis for compliance with a supervision and treatment plan. Jails and prisons have become some of the largest providers of mental health care across Texas and the country. Offenders with mental illness often move through these facilities as if they were a revolving door. Mental health courts that use best practices can help break this cycle by offering an alternative that holds offenders accountable and provides treatment. Many issues related to mental illness in the criminal justice system stem from deinstitutionalization, which began in the 1950s. Throughout the decade, popular sentiment and litigation led to significant reductions in the mandatory institutionalization of people with mental illness in state-sponsored psychiatric hospitals. In 1963, President Kennedy pushed the Community Mental Health Act, which closed many of these state-run institutions. Although these institutions were imperfect, the current challenges at the intersection of mental illness and corrections are partly attributable to lack of a replacement. Thus, people with mental illness who come in contact with law enforcement are often funneled into jails and prisons. Mental health courts could help Texas break the cycle of mental illness and crime. To reduce recidivism and spending on corrections, many states have established mental health courts. For example, New York has handled over 7,124 cases in mental health courts since December 2013. And in Texas, the Harris County Felony Mental Health Court began screening defendants for court admission in March 2012. Given this progression the time seems ideal for examining the role these courts can play in Texas' future criminal justice policy. Details: Austin: Texas Public Policy Foundation, 2015. 12p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Perspective: Accessed July 20, 2015 at: http://www.texaspolicy.com/library/doclib/PP-The-Role-of-Mental-Health-Courts-in-Texas.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://www.texaspolicy.com/library/doclib/PP-The-Role-of-Mental-Health-Courts-in-Texas.pdf Shelf Number: 136117 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCosts of Criminal JusticeMental Health CourtsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: Murphy, Kate Title: Overincarceration Of People With Mental Illness. Pretrial Diversion Across the Country and the Next Steps for Texas to Improve its Efforts and Increase Utilization Summary: Key Points - - The state should delegate its responsibility to provide mental health services to local governments that are already making decisions about how to address people with mental illness in local jails. - The lack of coordination between the state and local governments has impeded local governments' ability to resolve the problems associated with people with mental illness who cycle through local jails. - Local governments should continue to reallocate funding to expand effective, efficient community-based mental health services that may prevent or could be an alternative to incarceration. Details: Austin, TX: Texas Public Policy Foundation, 2015. 24p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 20, 2015 at: http://www.texaspolicy.com/library/doclib/Overincarceration-of-People-with-Mental-Illness.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://www.texaspolicy.com/library/doclib/Overincarceration-of-People-with-Mental-Illness.pdf Shelf Number: 136118 Keywords: Alternative to IncarcerationMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPretrial Diversion |
Author: Steinberg, Darrell Title: When did prisons become acceptable mental healthcare facilities? Summary: We can no longer ignore the massive oppression we are inflicting upon the mentally ill throughout the United States. Over a century ago, Dorothea Dix began a movement to improve the deplorable conditions of mentally ill prisoners. Despite her success in changing the country's perception and treatment of the mentally ill in prison, we are now right back where we started in the nineteenth century. Although deinstitutionalization was originally understood as a humane way to offer more suitable services to the mentally ill in community-based settings, some politicians seized upon it as a way to save money by shutting down institutions without providing any meaningful treatment alternatives. This callousness has created a one-way road to prison for massive numbers of impaired individuals and the inhumane warehousing of thousands of mentally ill people. We have created conditions that make criminal behavior all but inevitable for many of our brothers and sisters who are mentally ill. Instead of treating them, we are imprisoning them. And then, when they have completed their sentences, we release them with minimal or no support system in place, just counting the days until they are behind bars once again. This practice of seeking to save money on the backs of this population comes with huge moral and fiscal cost. It is ineffective because we spend far more on imprisonment of the mentally ill than we would otherwise spend on treatment and support. It is immoral because writing off another human being's life is utterly contrary to our collective values and principles. The numbers are staggering: over the past 15 years, the number of mentally ill people in prison in California has almost doubled. Today, 45 percent of state prison inmates have been treated for severe mental illness within the past year. The Los Angeles County Jail is "the largest mental health provider in the county," according to the former official in charge of the facility. California was at the forefront of the spiral towards imprisonment rather than treatment, when it turned its back on community based mental health programs. As usual, what started in California spread throughout the country. In 1971 there were 20,000 people in California prisons; by 2010 the population had increased to 162,000 people, of which 45 percent are estimated to be mentally ill. We in California now have an opportunity to lead again - this time to show that there is a better approach. We can begin a counter-revolution by setting a new standard for how we deal with people whose mental illness manifests through criminal activity. We will prove to the country that there is another, better approach - an approach that saves money and saves lives from being forsaken. Details: Palo Alto, CA: Stanford law School, Three Strikes Project, 2015. 23p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 29, 2015 at: https://www.law.stanford.edu/sites/default/files/child-page/632655/doc/slspublic/Report_v12.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: https://www.law.stanford.edu/sites/default/files/child-page/632655/doc/slspublic/Report_v12.pdf Shelf Number: 136255 Keywords: Jail InmatesMental Health CourtsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill OffendersProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: Washburn, Jason J. Title: Detained Youth Processed in Juvenile and Adult Court: Psychiatric Disorders and Mental Health Needs Summary: This bulletin presents results of a study of the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among youth transferred to adult criminal court compared with those processed in juvenile court. Key observations, findings, and recommendations include: - Many youth are being transferred to adult criminal court, with males, African Americans, Hispanics, and older youth significantly more likely to be processed in adult criminal court than females, non-Hispanic whites, and younger youth (even after controlling for the current charge). - The prevalence of one or more disorders among youth transferred to adult criminal court does not significantly differ from that among youth processed in juvenile court. - Among youth processed in adult criminal court, those sentenced to prison had significantly greater odds than those who received a less severe sentence of having a disruptive behavior disorder, a substance use disorder, or co-occurring affective and anxiety disorders. - Community and correctional systems must collaborate to identify and treat youth with psychiatric disorders who are transferred to adult criminal court. Youth who are transferred to adult criminal court and receive prison sentences should be considered a particularly high-risk group who are likely to require additional services. Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2015. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Juvenile Justice Bulletin: Accessed September 11, 2015 at: http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/248283.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/248283.pdf Shelf Number: 136722 Keywords: Co-concurring DisordersJuvenile CourtJuvenile Court TransfersJuvenile DetentionJuvenile InmatesJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Desai, Anita Title: Community Connections: The Key to Community Corrections for Individuals with Mental Health Disorders Summary: The scope of the Community Connections report moves beyond Towards an Integrated Network (St. Leonard's Society of Canada and Canadian Criminal Justice Association 2008) by focusing on those who are not diverted from the criminal justice system and who - sometimes repeatedly - enter this system struggling with mental health disorders. Based on the experiences of SLSC and its affiliates, and research conducted in this field, there is evidence of a need for integrated and cooperative approaches for the successful reintegration of offenders who have mental health disorders. Beyond successful diversion practices, SLSC has identified four major principles to consider when approaching the issue of successful reintegration and community connections for residents at Community-based Residential Facilities (CBRFs) living with mental health disorders. These include: accurate diagnoses, treatment, and discharge planning beginning within the prison; successful in reach efforts between CBRFs and the offender prior to release; successful partnerships between the CBRF, the resident, and at least one mental health partner - inclusive of a mental health agency within the local community; and finally, adequate discharge planning that involves the establishment of a support system that can and will be accessed by clients upon warrant expiry. SLSC has conducted this research with one major issue guiding our objective: to recognize that the needs of offenders who have mental health disorders do not end concurrently with warrant expiry, and it is this reality that motivates and demands that we continue on the journey of creating stronger, healthier, and more reliable community connections. Details: Ottawa: St. Leonard's Society of Canada, 2010. 58p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 16, 2015 at: http://www.hsjcc.on.ca/Resource%20Library/Social%20Determinants%20of%20Health/Community%20Connections%20-%20The%20Key%20to%20Community%20Corrections%20for%20Individuals%20with%20Mental%20Health%20Disorders%202010.pdf Year: 2010 Country: Canada URL: http://www.hsjcc.on.ca/Resource%20Library/Social%20Determinants%20of%20Health/Community%20Connections%20-%20The%20Key%20to%20Community%20Corrections%20for%20Individuals%20with%20Mental%20Health%20Disorders%202010.pdf Shelf Number: 136784 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCommunity Based CorrectionsMental Health ServicesMental IllnessMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Abram, Karen M. Title: Perceived Barriers to Mental Health Services Among Detained Youth Summary: This bulletin is part of a series that presents the results of the Northwestern Juvenile Project - a longitudinal study of youth detained at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center in Chicago, IL. The authors examine youth's perceptions of barriers to mental health services, focusing on youth with alcohol, drug, and mental health disorders. Findings include the following: - Most frequently, youth did not receive services because they believed their problems would go away without outside help (56.5 percent). - Nearly one-third of youth (31.7 percent) were not sure whom to contact or where to get help. - Nearly one-fifth of the sample (19.1 percent) reported difficulty in obtaining help. - African American and Hispanic detainees received significantly fewer services in the past compared with non-Hispanic white youth. Male detainees also received significantly fewer services in the past when compared with female detainees. Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2015. 12p. Source: Internet Resource: Juvenile Justice Bulletin: http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/248522.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/248522.pdf Shelf Number: 136870 Keywords: Juvenile DetentionJuvenile InmatesJuvenile OffendersMental Health Services |
Author: Butler, Amanda Title: Mental Illness and the Criminal Justice System: A Review of Global Perspectives and Promising Practices Summary: Police officers are often the first point of contact for people living with mental health issues. The rationale for police to intervene in the lives of persons with mental illness (PMI)1 stems from two common law principles: power and authority of police to protect the safety of the community, and the parens patriae doctrine which grants state protection for citizens with disabilities such as the acutely mentally ill (Finn & Stalans, 2002; Lamb, Weinberger, & DeCuir, 2002; Teplin, 2000). Many police officers have expressed concern about the difficulties they encounter in providing assistance to this population and have indicated that they do not feel adequately trained or would like additional training in effective response (Watson & Angell, 2007). Studies indicate that these interactions can be incredibly time consuming and frustrating for both police and persons with mental illness (Durbin, Lin, & Zaslavska, 2010). Efforts to improve police officers' abilities to respond to persons with mental illness are being initiated in jurisdictions globally. These efforts include crisis intervention teams, mobile mental health cars, and a range of educational programs. The US has been a forerunner in the development of police-led and co-response models which have spread rapidly across the US and other western jurisdictions. Many of these efforts have incorporated the perspectives of multiple stakeholders into planning and implementing interventions, but minimal investment has been dedicated to evaluations for effectiveness. These programs would benefit from both rigorous evaluation and a well-developed understanding of interactions between police officers and persons with mental illness. Law enforcement agencies would also benefit from knowledge of "what's working" in other jurisdictions with similar environmental characteristics. This knowledge can help isolate the essential components of effective police response that can be disseminated alone, or as components of a more extensive program. The overall objective of this paper is thus twofold. I begin with a preliminary review of the literature addressing the nature, prevalence and dynamic of interactions between persons with mental illness and law enforcement. This includes the intersections between mental illness, substance abuse and homelessness, which are particularly relevant to policing. The latter half of the paper will be dedicated to law enforcement responses, focusing on programs that have the specific goal of improving response and treatment access. The jurisdictions studied for this review will be predominantly Canada and the United States, and to a lesser extent, Australia and the United Kingdom. There appears to be considerable convergence in attitude amongst all four jurisdictions around the importance of police in effectively managing persons in crisis. Despite the increasing number of programs to improve the interactions of police with persons with mental illness, good evaluations are limited. As well, the objectives of such programs are often vague and difficult to measure. Generally, it appears that effective programs have reduced arrest rates, reduced injuries to both persons with mental illness (PMI) and police, reduced response times, increased coordination with mental health services and increased appropriate referrals to hospital and various community-based agencies. However programs have generally not reduced recidivism, unless the referral is to more than regular mental health services and includes cognitive behavioural training and stable housing. Details: Vancouver, BC: International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and Criminal Justice Policy, 2014. 48p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 8, 2015 at: http://icclr.law.ubc.ca/sites/icclr.law.ubc.ca/files/publications/pdfs/Mental%20Illness%20and%20the%20Criminal%20Justice%20System_Butler_ICCLR_0.pdf Year: 2014 Country: Canada URL: http://icclr.law.ubc.ca/sites/icclr.law.ubc.ca/files/publications/pdfs/Mental%20Illness%20and%20the%20Criminal%20Justice%20System_Butler_ICCLR_0.pdf Shelf Number: 136964 Keywords: Crisis ManagementMental Health ServicesMental IllnessMentally Ill OffendersPolice Services for the Mentally IllPolice Training |
Author: Greenberg, Joel Title: Behind the Eleventh Door: Solitary Confinement of Individuals with Mental Illness in Oregon's State Penitentiary Behavioral Health Unit Summary: The corrections system has become the nation's largest provider of mental health services. The Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) has determined that more than half of Oregon's prison population has been diagnosed with a mental illness. Many of the prisoners who are most profoundly impacted by their mental illnesses are held in solitary confinement in the Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) at the Oregon State Penitentiary. These men spend months and sometimes years in an approximately 6 x 10 foot cell, with no natural light, no access to the outdoors or fresh air, and very limited opportunities to speak with other people. While ODOC policy requires these prisoners to be offered regular opportunities to shower and "go to rec," our investigation revealed that few BHU prisoners are actually able to access these opportunities more than once or twice a week. Stated more simply, BHU prisoners are subjected to long periods of solitary confinement. The stress, angst, and boredom of solitary confinement are extremely harmful to an individual's mental health. As one court concluded: "the record shows, what anyway seems pretty obvious, that isolating a human being from other human beings year after year or even month after month can cause substantial psychological damage, even if the isolation is not total." For individuals with serious mental illness, solitary confinement is widely acknowledged to be detrimental and clinically contra-indicated. The American Bar Association, the American Psychiatric Association, and the United Nations oppose solitary confinement for people with mental illness. Beginning with the U.S. Supreme Court in 1890 and continuing in recent years, courts across the country have decried the practice. By 1995, a federal judge compared placing an individual with a serious mental illness in solitary confinement to putting an asthmatic in a place with little air to breathe. In recent years, this problem is being addressed across the country. Some of our recommendations are modeled after a 2014 settlement with the state of Arizona. The desperation and exacerbation of symptoms resulting from isolation can significantly decrease a person's ability to conform his actions to rules and behavioral norms, thus creating a cycle of lashing out and increased penalties that further reduce mental health. That sort of cycle is not only a disaster for the prisoners who cannot escape it; it is an endless source of danger for the correctional officers who have to maintain order in an already difficult environment. Originally, the BHU was designed to break this cycle by better addressing the unmet mental health needs of prisoners with serious mental illness. In recent years, however, clinical staff and mental health treatment have been marginalized in favor of an ever-increasing deference to the safety and convenience of correctional staff. This shift has created an environment in which individuals are deprived of basic human rights. BHU prisoners and the past and present BHU mental health employees who spoke with us were consistent in their belief that many BHU prisoners have been subjected to the practical equivalent of torture during their often very long stays in the unit. The conditions that they describe undermine the health and well-being of the prisoners. In addition, they expose ODOC to legal liability and jeopardize utility of the unit within the ODOC system. We have learned that there are many serious problems at the BHU, but have focused on identifying a limited set of primary concerns that must be corrected if the BHU is to fulfill its mission and meet constitutional standards of care. Details: Portland, OR: Disability Rights Oregon, 2015. 65p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 22, 2015 at: https://droregon.org/wp-content/uploads/Behind-the-Eleventh-Door-Electronic-Version.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: https://droregon.org/wp-content/uploads/Behind-the-Eleventh-Door-Electronic-Version.pdf Shelf Number: 137051 Keywords: Correctional InstitutionsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersSolitary Confinement |
Author: Gros, Hanna Title: Summary: Every year thousands of non-citizens ("migrants") are detained in Canada; in 2013, for example, over 7300 migrants were detained. Nearly one third of all detention occurs in a facility intended for a criminal population. Migrants detained in provincial jails are not currently serving a criminal sentence, but are effectively serving hard time. Our research indicates that detention is sometimes prolonged, and can drag on for years. Imprisonment exacerbates existing mental health issues and often creates new ones, including suicidal ideation. Nearly one third of all detention occurs in a facility intended for a criminal population, while the remaining occurs in dedicated immigration holding centres (IHCs) in Toronto (195 beds), Montreal (150 beds), and Vancouver (24 beds, for short stays of less than 72 hours). Nearly 60% of all detention occurs in Ontario. A Canadian Red Cross Society report notes that, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) held 2247 migrants in detention in Ontario provincial jails in 2012. Unfortunately, more up-to-date statistics are not publicly available. Immigration detention is costly. In 2011-2012, the last year for which there is publicly - available information, CBSA spent nearly $50,000,000 on detention - related activities. In 2013, CBSA paid the provinces over $26,000,000 to detain migrants in provincial jails - over $20,000,000 of that was paid to the province of Ontario. CBSA states that detention in a provincial jail costs $259 per day, per detainee. This report finds that Canada's detention of migrants with mental health issues in provincial jails is a violation of binding international human rights law and constitutes arbitrary detention; cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment; discrimination on the basis of disability; violates the right to health; and violates the right to an effective remedy. We find that migrants with mental health issues are routinely detained despite their vulnerable status. Some detainees have no past criminal record, but are detained on the basis that they are a flight risk, or because their identity cannot be confirmed. Due to the overrepresentation of people with mental health issues in Canada's criminal justice system, some migrants with mental health issues are detained on the basis of past criminality - this is after serving their criminal sentence, however minor the underlying offence. Some spend more time in jail on account of their immigration status than the underlying criminal conviction. Despite Canada's strong commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities, migrants with serious mental health issues are routinely imprisoned in maximum-security provincial jails (as opposed to dedicated, medium-security IHCs). Indeed, the Canadian government publicly states that one of the factors it considers in deciding to transfer a detainee from an IHC to a provincial jail is the existence of a mental health issue. Counsel and jail staff we spoke to noted that migrants are often held in provincial jails on the basis of pre-existing mental health issues (including suicidal ideation), medical issues, or because they are deemed 'problematic' or uncooperative by CBSA. The government claims that detainees can better access health care services in jail, even though all our research indicates that mental health care in provincial jails is woefully inadequate and has been the subject of recent reports and human rights complaints. Alarmingly, we could find no established criteria in law to determine when a detainee can or should be transferred from an IHC to a provincial jail - the decision is at the whim of CBSA. Detainees' counsel are not notified of the transfer in advance and do not have the right to make submissions to challenge it. Of course, outside of Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, all detainees are held in jails since there are no dedicated facilities to house migrants. Once a detainee finds him or herself in provincial jail, they fall into a legal black hole where neither CBSA nor the provincial jail has clear authority over their conditions of confinement. This is especially problematic since, in Ontario at least, there is no regular, independent monitoring of provincial jails that house immigration detainees. Unfortunately, while the laws and policies on their face pay lip service to the importance of exploring alternatives to detention, the numerous counsel and experts we interviewed all identified the lack of meaningful or viable alternatives to detention for those with mental health issues due to ingrained biases of government officials and quasi-judicial decision-makers who review continued detention. In practice, the detention review process, which is meant to mitigate the risk of indefinite detention, actually facilitates it. Ontario counsel we spoke to uniformly expressed frustration with the futility of the reviews, where a string of lay decision-makers preside over hearings that last a matter of minutes, lack due process, and presume continued detention absent "clear and compelling reasons" to depart from past decisions. It is an exercise in smoke and mirrors. The immigration detainees we profile spent between two months and eight years imprisoned in maximum-security provincial jails, and each had a diagnosed mental health issue and/or expressed serious anxiety or suicidal ideation. Without exception, detention in a provincial jail, even for a short period, exacerbated their mental health issues, or created new ones. This is, of course, unsurprising given the overwhelming evidence that immigration detention is devastating for those with mental health issues. Without exception, the immigration detainees we spoke to communicated incredible despair and anxiety - over their immigration status, their seemingly indefinite detention, their lack of legal rights, their conditions of confinement, and the lack of adequate mental health resources to allow them to get better. They are treated like "garbage," "animals," or something less than human. The detention of migrants with mental health issues in provincial jails violates the human rights of some of the most vulnerable people in Canadian society. It violates numerous human rights treaties to which Canada is a party, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as jus cogens norms of customary international law. Details: Toronto: International Human Rights Program (IHRP) University of Toronto Faculty of Law, 2015. 129p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 27, 2015 at: http://ihrp.law.utoronto.ca/utfl_file/count/PUBLICATIONS/IHRP%20We%20Have%20No%20Rights%20Report%20web%20170615.pdf Year: 2015 Country: Canada URL: http://ihrp.law.utoronto.ca/utfl_file/count/PUBLICATIONS/IHRP%20We%20Have%20No%20Rights%20Report%20web%20170615.pdf Shelf Number: 137152 Keywords: Human Rights AbusesIllegal ImmigrantsImmigrant DetentionMental Health ServicesMigrantsUndocumented Immigrants |
Author: Filges, Trine Title: The Impact of Detention on the Health of Asylum Seekers: A Systematic Review Summary: BACKGROUND The last decades of the twentieth century were accompanied by an upsurge in the number of persons fleeing persecution and regional wars. Western countries have applied increasingly stringent measures to discourage those seeking asylum from entering their country. The most controversial of the measures to discourage people from seeking asylum is the decision by some Western countries to confine asylum seekers in detention facilities. In most countries, the detention of asylum seekers is an administrative procedure that is undertaken to verify the identity of individuals, process asylum claims, and/or ensure that a deportation order is carried out. A number of clinicians have expressed concern that detention increases mental health difficulties in asylum seekers, who is already a highly traumatized population, and have called for an end to such practices. This is clearly in conflict with government policies aimed at reducing the numbers of asylum seekers. OBJECTIVES - The main objective of this review is to assess evidence about the effects of detention on the mental and physical health and social functioning of asylum seekers. SEARCH STRATEGY - Relevant studies were identified through electronic searches of bibliographic databases, internet search engines and hand searching of core journals. Searches were carried out to November 2013. We searched to identify both published and unpublished literature. The searches were international in scope. Reference lists of included studies and relevant reviews were also searched. SELECTION CRITERIA - All study designs that used a well-defined control group were eligible for inclusion. Studies that utilized qualitative approaches were not included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS - The total number of potential relevant studies constituted 11,376 hits. A total of nine studies, consisting of 12 papers, met the inclusion criteria and were critically appraised by the review authors. The final selection comprised nine studies from four different countries. Two studies reported on the same sample of asylum seekers in Australia at different time points after release. The nine studies thus analysed eight different asylum populations. Six studies (all analysing asylum seekers in Australia) could not be used in the data synthesis as they were judged to have too high risk of bias on the confounding item. Three studies were therefore included in the data synthesis. Meta-analysis was used to examine the effects of detention on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety while the asylum seekers were still detained. Random effects models were used to pool data across the studies using the standardised mean difference. Pooled estimates were weighted using inverse variance methods, and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. It was not possible to perform a meta-analysis after release as only one study providing data after release was included in the data synthesis. RESULTS - Two studies provided data while the asylum seekers were still detained, and one study provided data less than a year after release. The total number of participants in these three studies was 359. We performed analyses separately for these time points. All outcomes were measured such that a negative effect size favours the detained asylum seekers, i.e. when an effect size is negative the detained asylum seekers are better off than comparison groups of non-detained asylum seekers. The three studies used in the data synthesis were all non randomised studies and only one of them was judged to be of some concern on the confounding item of the risk of bias tool. Primary study effect sizes for PTSD, depression and anxiety while the asylum seekers were still detained lies in the range 0.35 to 0.99, all favouring the non-detained asylum group. The weighted average effect sizes for PTSD and anxiety are of a magnitude which may be characterised as being of clinical importance: 0.45 [95% CI 0.19, 0.71] and 0.42 [95% CI 0.18, 0.66]. The weighted average effect size for depression is of an even higher magnitude: 0.68 [95% CI 0.10, 1.26]. All effects favour the non-detained; i.e. there is an adverse effect of detention on mental health. The magnitude of the pooled estimates should however be interpreted with caution as they are based on two studies, and for depression there is some inconsistency in the magnitude of effect sizes between the two studies. One study reported outcomes (PTSD, depression and anxiety) after release and the magnitude of the effect sizes were all of clinical importance: 0.59 [95% CI 0.02, 1.17], 0.60 [95% CI 0.02, 1.17] and 0.76 [95% CI 0.17, 1.34]; all favouring the non-detained asylum seekers. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS - There is some evidence to suggest an independent adverse effect of detention on the mental health of asylum seekers. All studies used in the data synthesis reported adverse effects on the detained asylum seekers' mental health, measured as PTSD, depression and anxiety. The magnitude of the effect sizes lay in a clinical important range despite the fact that the comparison groups used in the primary studies faced a range of similar post-migration adversities and had a more or less similar experience of prior traumatic events as the detained asylum seekers. Thus, the current evidence suggests an independent deterioration of the mental health due to detention of a group of people who are already highly traumatised. Adverse effects on the mental health were found not only while the asylum seekers were detained, but also after release suggesting that the adverse mental health effect of detention may be prolonged, extending well beyond the point of release into the community. The conclusions should however be interpreted with caution as they are based on only three studies. More research is needed in order to fully investigate the effect of detention on mental health. While additional research is needed, the review does, however, offer support to the view that the detention of already traumatised asylum seekers may have adverse effects on their mental health. Details: Oslo: The Campbell Collaboration, 2015. 105p. Source: Internet Resource: Campbell Systematic Review, 11(13): Accessed October 30, 2015 at: http://www.campbellcollaboration.org/lib/project/253/ Year: 2015 Country: International URL: http://www.campbellcollaboration.org/lib/project/253/ Shelf Number: 137175 Keywords: Asylum SeekersImmigrant DetentionMental Health Services |
Author: Council of State Governments Justice Center Title: Improving Responses to People with Mental Illnesses at the Pretrial Stage: Essential Elements Summary: The period between a person's arrest and his or her case being adjudicated presents a significant opportunity to safely minimize future criminal justice involvement and make needed connections to behavioral health care. Nationally, about 17 percent of people entering jails pretrial meet criteria for a serious mental illness. In addition, about three-quarters of people with serious mental illnesses in jails have a co-occurring substance use disorder. These are individuals who, by and large, are eligible to receive publicly funded health care. Many communities have found ways to make effective connections to treatment for some individuals as part of pretrial release or diversion programs, but policymakers and practitioners continue to struggle to identify and implement research-based policies and practices at this stage of the criminal justice system. This report introduces essential elements for responding to people with mental illnesses at the pretrial stage, including decisions about pretrial release and diversion. These elements encourage data collection not only to help individual communities, but also for future researchers who are dedicated to these important questions. Details: New York: Council of State Governments Justice Center, 2015. 42p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 30, 2015 at: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Improving_Responses_to_People_with_Mental_Illnesses_at_the_Pretrial_Stage_Essential_Elements.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Improving_Responses_to_People_with_Mental_Illnesses_at_the_Pretrial_Stage_Essential_Elements.pdf Shelf Number: 137181 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPretrial InterventionPretrial Release |
Author: Schwarzfeld, Matthew Title: Improving Responses to People With Mental Illnesses: The Essential Elements of a Specialized Law Enforcement-Based Program Summary: Law enforcement officers throughout the country regularly respond to calls for service that involve people with mental illnesses-often without needed supports, resources, or specialized training. These encounters can have significant consequences for the officers, people with mental illnesses and their loved ones, the community, and the criminal justice system. Although these encounters may constitute a relatively small number of an agency's total calls for service, they are among the most complex and time-consuming calls officers must address. At these scenes, front-line officers must stabilize a potentially volatile situation, determine whether the person poses a danger to him- or herself or others, and effect an appropriate disposition that may require a wide range of community supports. In the interests of safety and justice, officers typically take approximately 30 percent of people with mental illnesses they encounter into custody- for transport to either an emergency room, a mental health facility, or jail. Officers resolve the remaining incidents informally, often only able to provide a short-term solution to a person's long-term needs. As a consequence, many law enforcement personnel respond to the same group of people with mental illnesses and the same locations repeatedly, straining limited resources and fostering a collective sense of frustration at the inability to prevent future encounters. In response, jurisdictions across the country are exploring strategies to improve the outcomes of these encounters and to provide a compassionate response that prioritizes treatment over incarceration when appropriate. These efforts took root in the late 1980s, when the crisis intervention team (CIT) and law enforcement-mental health co-response models, described in more detail below, first emerged. Since that time, hundreds of communities have implemented these programs; some have replicated the models, and others have adapted features to meet their jurisdiction's unique needs. Although this number represents only a small fraction of all U.S. communities, there are many indications that the level of interest in criminal justice-mental health collaborative initiatives is surging. Details: New York: Council of State Governments Justice Center, 2008. 26p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 3, 2015 at: https://www.bja.gov/Publications/LE_Essential_Elements.pdf Year: 2008 Country: United States URL: https://www.bja.gov/Publications/LE_Essential_Elements.pdf Shelf Number: 137188 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill PersonsPolice Specialized TrainingPolice Training |
Author: Thompson, Michael Title: Improving Responses to People with Mental Illnesses: The Essential Elements of a Specialized Law Enforcement-Based Program Summary: This publication articulates 10 essential elements for specialized law enforcement-based response programs in interacting with people with mental illnesses and provides a common framework for program design and implementation that will promote positive outcomes while being sensitive to every jurisdiction's distinct needs and resources. This project was coordinated by the Council of State Governments Justice Center with support from the Bureau of Justice Assistance, U.S. Department of Justice. Details: New York: Council of State Governments Justice Center, 2008. 26p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 3, 2015 at: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/le-essentialelements.pdf Year: 2008 Country: United States URL: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/le-essentialelements.pdf Shelf Number: 137189 Keywords: Mental Health CourtsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPolice Specialized TrainingProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: Harris, Kristine Title: 'A Secret Punishment' - the misuse of segregation in immigration detention Summary: This report reveals that a disturbing number of sick immigration detainees are put in segregation indiscriminately. Medical Justice are calling for an immediate halt to the use of segregation in immigration detention. Immigration detainees may be detained indefinitely despite not having committed any crime - putting them in segregation adds to their trauma. Between 1,200 and 4,800 detainees are segregated each year in immigration detention. Alarmingly there is little central monitoring of the use of segregation. This dossier draws on the cases of 15 detainees assisted by Medical Justice. One woman became mentally ill as a result of being detained for 17 months. During this time she was handcuffed and held in segregation on many occasions to prevent her self-harming. The High Court found her detention amounted to 'inhuman and degrading treatment'. This dossier reveals that the damaging physical and psychological impact of segregation is widely recognised. Its misuse has been repeatedly criticised by official inspectorates yet the abuses continue. It is overused, applied inappropriately and often contravenes the rules. Findings include: - One detainee held in segregation for 22 months - One schizophrenic detainee died in segregation - One person was segregated eight times during 800 days of detention - One detainee was segregated for nine days purely because they were a child - One woman was assaulted with a riot shield while being taken to segregation Details: London: Medical Justice, 2015. 116p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 5, 2015 at: http://www.medicaljustice.org.uk/images/stories/reports/SecretPunishment.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.medicaljustice.org.uk/images/stories/reports/SecretPunishment.pdf Shelf Number: 137197 Keywords: Immigrant DetentionImmigrantsImmigrationImmigration EnforcementIsolationMental Health ServicesMentally IllSegregationSolitary Confinement |
Author: New Mexico Sentencing Commission Title: Assessment Of The Second Judicial District Court Pretrial Services Office Summary: According to the American Probation and Parole Association and the Pretrial Justice Institute, in perhaps no more than 15% (460) of the nation's 3,065 counties, judicial officers are aided by pretrial services programs in the balancing act between the presumption of innocence and public safety (APPA, 2010). At midyear 2011, about 6 in 10 jail inmates were not convicted, but were in jail awaiting court action on a current charge - a rate unchanged since 2005 (Minton, 2012). U.S. jails over the past two decades have become largely occupied by individuals awaiting trial, with only a minority of inmates serving out convictions. Before the mid-1990s, jail populations historically were evenly split between pretrial and sentenced prisoners. Since 1996, however, pretrial inmates have grown in numbers and at a faster rate than sentenced inmates, even though crime rates have been falling (Bechtel, et al, 2012). During the 2012 regular session of the New Mexico State Legislative session, the Legislature passed House Joint Memorial 20 (HJM 20) "Bernalillo Case Management Pilot Project." HJM 20 lists a series of conditions justifying the passage of the memorial; a shortage of incarceration options; $30 million to house felony arrestees; the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) has exceeded its design capacity for years; opportunities to alleviate burdens on county jails, but the opportunities were too difficult to implement; and the old Bernalillo County Detention Center could be renovated into a treatment center. HJM 20 resolves that the Bernalillo County Commissioners create a pilot project that will streamline case management, evaluate and expand treatment and diversion programs, create an alternative incarceration facility, as well as start new mental health and substance abuse treatment options, alternative incarceration, transitional living, and reintegration programs. The major stakeholders of the Bernalillo County criminal justice system should be represented in the pilot project. Additionally, HJM20 requests the NM Sentencing Commission (NMSC) collect jail population data, research case management practices, and evaluate the viability and effectiveness of the proposed pilot project. In response to HJM 20, NMSC entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Bernalillo County. The scope of work was, "evaluate the effectiveness of the expanded pretrial services program operated by the [Second Judicial District Court (SJDC)] - [also evaluate] new or expanded treatment programs and diversionary programs [if time and budget allow]." Details: Albuquerque, NM: New Mexico Sentencing Commission, 2014. 84p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 11, 2015 at: http://nmsc.unm.edu/reports/2014/assessment-of-the-second-judicial-district-court-pretrial-services-office.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://nmsc.unm.edu/reports/2014/assessment-of-the-second-judicial-district-court-pretrial-services-office.pdf Shelf Number: 137239 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCase ManagementDiversionJail InmatesMental Health ServicesPretrial ServicesSubstance Abuse TreatmentTreatment Programs |
Author: Tonigan, Alexandra Toscova Title: Adolescent Treatment Centers: Literature Review and Issues in New Mexico Summary: Residential Treatment Centers (RTC) are designed to offer medically monitored intensive, comprehensive psychiatric treatment services to adolescents with mental illness, severe emotional disturbance, and/or cognitive delays. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) describes RTC"s as, "a facility that provides children and adolescents with a residential multidisciplinary mental health program under medical supervision and leadership. It is often utilized when the child cannot be treated in a community-based setting," (AACAP, 2010). In other words, practitioners emphasize the importance of trying alternatives before turning to inpatient treatment settings. In most cases, an adolescent is only referred to RTC"s after one or more unsuccessful attempts for treatment in less restrictive programs (Cigna 2012). There is no official definition of what it means to be a residential treatment facility. RTC"s vary in several ways. While there are some common characteristics, RTC"s vary in function, perspective, approaches and philosophies, staff education and qualifications, treatment organization and services offered, family and parental involvement, and post-discharge/ transitional support (OJJDP). One of the few ways in which RTC"s can be systematically categorized is through the source of funding - RTC‟s can be private or public. It is argued by many that private and public RTC"s are fundamentally different (Behrens, Satterfield, 2011). Each RTC is unique and so currently, researchers and practitioners are faced with determining what exactly works and for whom. Over the past ten years, researchers have established a substantial body of literature on the efficacy of RTC"s for adolescents. A large portion of this literature has shown that RTC"s, when implemented correctly, are an effective treatment model for adolescents. Still, much can be learned about the gaps in adolescent treatment - "there is a lack of research that measures or examines the influence of these factors on the success of treatment, so it remains unclear what program elements are important and beneficial to the treatment process" (OJJDP). Moreover, the majority of existing research and literature focuses on public RTC"s. In fact, much less is understood about private RTC"s, especially in terms of their outcomes. A primary purpose of this report is to briefly review existing literature on publically funded adolescent RTC"s in relation to New Mexico"s Sequoyah Adolescent Treatment Center. Specific areas of interest include gaining a better understanding of the best practices and guidelines for RTC"s, as well as a better understanding of the challenges such Details: Albuquerque: New Mexico Sentencing Commission, 2014. 9p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 16, 2015 at: http://nmsc.unm.edu/reports/2014/adolescent-treatment-centers-literature-review-and-issues-in-new-mexico.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://nmsc.unm.edu/reports/2014/adolescent-treatment-centers-literature-review-and-issues-in-new-mexico.pdf Shelf Number: 137301 Keywords: AdolescentsMental Health ServicesResidential Treatment Centers |
Author: Carceres-Monroy, Alejandro Title: Breaking the Silence: Civil and Human Rights Violations Resulting from Medical Neglect and Abuse of Women of Color in Los Angeles County Jails Summary: Women of color with mental health conditions in LA county jails and California prisons are exceptionally vulnerable to medical neglect and abuse that violate domestic civil rights law and regional and international human rights law. This Report by Dignity and Power Now ("DPN") documents how jail and prison officials violated the rights of seven women of color, and highlights the mental health consequences of the medical neglect and abuse these women suffered. It relies on the testimonies of these women, interviews with two former CRDF psychiatric social workers, and a growing literature on the unlawful treatment of incarcerated populations with mental health conditions across the United States of America. Although this Report's focus is the Century Regional Detention Facility ("CRDF"), an all-female facility operated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department ("LASD"), it includes violations against women at the LASD's Twin Towers facility and at the California Institution for Women ("CIW"), an all-female state prison. This Report documents how LASD Deputies and other personnel-including Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health personnel working in detention facilities-systematically denied the women interviewed vital mental and physical health care services. These officials forced women suffering from mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression to suffer - sometimes for months - without access to necessary medication. These Deputies verbally abused these women and rarely permitted them to leave their cells. These officials forced these women to lie in their own filth for days, and denied them access to adequate reproductive hygiene products such as tampons or pads, leaving these women to bleed on themselves. Women interviewed for this Report recounted how Deputies shackled pregnant women, and punished women with mental health conditions by placing them in solitary confinement. The experiences of these interviewees also reveal how, by medically neglecting and abusing women of color, Deputies and other personnel increased these women's risk of suicide. These abuses are unacceptable by any measure. That they occur at the hands of public employees entrusted with the humane care of these women - some of whom are our communities' most mentally and physically vulnerable - is heinous. In addition to detailing these women's stories, this Report demonstrates that the medical neglect and abuse of incarcerated women of color by LASD and other public officials violates domestic civil rights law, regional human rights law, and international human rights law. The violations this Report documents make clear the human cost of the growing trend of incarceration of women, a trend that is by no means mitigated by so-called gender responsive incarceration. In 2007 some California legislators proposed the construction of more incarceration facilities for women, and used a need for gender responsiveness as a justification for this expansion. A report by Californians United for a Responsible Budget, also released that year, explained that so-called gender responsive incarceration proposals used "the grave needs of people in women's prisons to manipulate public sentiment in favor of rehabilitation and services to expand a failing system." Even today, building more facilities will not prevent the gross human rights violations incarcerated women endure in Los Angeles County, or anywhere else in the United States. Details: Los Angeles, CA: Dignity and Power Now, 2015. 28p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 11, 2016 at: http://dignityandpowernow.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/breaking_silence_report_2015.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: http://dignityandpowernow.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/breaking_silence_report_2015.pdf Shelf Number: 137456 Keywords: African AmericansFemale InmatesFemale OffendersFemale PrisonersJailsMedical CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Council of State Governments Justice Center Title: Franklin County, Ohio: A County Justice and Behavioral Health Systems Improvement Project Summary: In 2014, the Franklin County (Columbus), Ohio, Criminal Justice Planning Board was selected to serve as a County Justice and Behavioral Health Systems Demonstration Site. Demonstration sites receive in-depth technical assistance from the CSG Justice Center to pursue goals such as increasing public safety, reducing jail costs, and helping connect individuals with mental and substance use disorders to effective community-based health services. Franklin County was selected because of the strength of cooperation between its various criminal-justice-related agencies. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office; the Franklin County Board of Commissioners; the Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Board of Franklin County; the Franklin County Office of Homeland Security and Justice Programs; the Columbus City Attorney's Office; the Franklin County Prosecutor and Public Defender offices; and leadership from the Franklin County Municipal and Common Pleas Courts and Probation departments all worked together on the project. An extensive data analysis coupled with over 50 in-person interviews with local and state leaders led to the identification of key recommendations for reducing the number of people with behavioral health disorders cycling in and out of jail. Details: Lexington, KY: Council of State Government Justice Center, 2015. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 25, 2016 at: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/FranklinCountyFullReport.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/FranklinCountyFullReport.pdf Shelf Number: 137648 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill Persons |
Author: Taxman, Faye S. Title: Process Measures at the Interface Between Justice and Behavioral Health Systems: Advancing Practice and Outcomes Summary: This paper proposes client and system-level process measures intended to gauge how well the justice and behavioral health treatment systems are collaboratively addressing individuals behavioral health needs. Similar process measures within the behavioral health system have been found helpful in advancing access and retention in treatment services. An estimated 9 million people with substance use disorders come into contact with the criminal justice system each year in the United States, making it the largest concentration of people with substance use disorders in the country. The prevalence of people who have a behavioral health disorder in the justice system is higher than in the general population, as approximately half have a known substance use disorder and 17 percent have a serious mental disorder (SMD). Seventy-two percent of people in the justice system with SMDs also have a co-occurring substance use disorder. Both the justice and health systems have a role to play in identifying the needs of and accessing and providing care for people with behavioral health disorders. It is widely recognized that failure of both the justice and health systems to facilitate access to and provide appropriate behavioral health treatment contributes to both negative health and safety outcomes. Details: Lexington, KY: Council of State Government Justice Center, 2016. 32p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 27, 2016 at: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/InterfaceProcessMeasures_FullReport.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/InterfaceProcessMeasures_FullReport.pdf Shelf Number: 137667 Keywords: Drug Offenders Mental Health ServicesSubstance Abuse Treatment |
Author: Farran, Gabrielle Title: "Opening Up": How is Positive Change Made Possible for Gang-Involved Adolescents in Contact with a Mental Health Charity? Summary: This research sought to explore if, and how, being involved with a mental health charity project is helpful to gang-associated young people. There are problematic gaps in access to adolescent mental health services in the UK, and the evidence base that supports them, particularly for young people labelled 'hard to reach'. In addition, engaging adolescents is acknowledged as challenging for mental health professionals, and drop-out rates are high. Furthermore, recommended interventions do not address poverty and social disadvantage, the most salient risk factors for both adolescent mental health problems and for offending, and a blight on the lived experience of the most marginalised and vulnerable young people in UK society. Taking a critical realist stance, the current research aims to address these problems by using the qualitative methodology of grounded theory to develop a model of the positive change occurring at an innovative mental health project working with gang-involved young people. The project has developed an integrated approach that draws on different therapeutic orientations, particularly community psychology, mentalisation and attachment theory. Six young people and six professionals working at the project were interviewed. A grounded theory analysis, comprising the core category of "Opening Up" was constructed from the researcher's understanding of participants' accounts. Positive change was conceptualised as an opening up of: future possibilities; contexts for action and interaction; access to material and social resources and opportunities; the self in relationship; and ideas about the self and others. Central to the findings was the use of trust as a resource for change, and a service structure enabling professionals and young people to take "the time that it takes" to establish a therapeutic relationship facilitating positive change. In keeping with the community psychology influences at the project, a Youth Research Consultant advised throughout the research. Limitations of the findings and their implications for future research and practice at the individual, service and commissioning levels are considered. Details: London: University of East London, 2014. 179p. Source: Internet Resource: Dissertation: Accessed February 10, 2016 at: http://roar.uel.ac.uk/3978/ Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://roar.uel.ac.uk/3978/ Shelf Number: 137829 Keywords: At-Risk YouthGangsMental Health ServicesYouth Gangs |
Author: National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health (UK) Title: Violence and Aggression: Short-Term Management in Mental Health, Health and Community Settings Summary: This guideline has been developed to advise on the short-term management of violence and aggression in mental health, health and community settings in adults, children (aged 12 years or under) and young people (aged 13 to 17 years). This guideline updates Violence: the Short-term Management of Disturbed/Violent Behaviour in In-Patient Psychiatric Settings and Emergency Departments (NICE clinical guideline 25), which was developed by the National Collaborating Centre for Nursing and Supportive Care and published in 2005. Since the publication of the 2005 guideline, there have been some important advances in our knowledge of the management of violence and aggression, including service users' views on the use of physical intervention and seclusion, and the effectiveness, acceptability and safety of drugs and their dosages for rapid tranquillisation. The previous guideline was restricted to people aged 16 years and over in adult psychiatric settings and emergency departments; this update has been expanded to include some of the previously excluded populations and settings. All areas of NICE clinical guideline 25 have been updated, and this guideline will replace it in full. The guideline recommendations have been developed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, people with mental health problems who have personally experienced management of violent or aggressive behaviour, their carers and guideline methodologists after careful consideration of the best available evidence. It is intended that the guideline will be useful to clinicians and service commissioners in providing and planning high-quality care for the management of violence and aggression, while also emphasising the importance of the experience of these service users' care and the experience of their carers. Details: London: British Psychological Society, 2015. 253p. Source: Internet Resource: NICD Guideline No. 10: Accessed February 12, 2016 at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK305020/pdf/Bookshelf_NBK305020.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK305020/pdf/Bookshelf_NBK305020.pdf Shelf Number: 137852 Keywords: Alarm SystemsHospital SecurityHospitalsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill ViolenceWorkplace Violence |
Author: Minnesota. Office of the Legislative Auditor. Program Evaluation Division Title: Mental Health Services in County Jails Summary: We found that when police encounter a person who may be suffering from a mental illness, services available in jails and in communities are often inadequate. In addition, many persons deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial do not receive treatment in a sufficiently timely manner, if at all. We make recommendations to address these deficiencies. Implementing them will require action by the Legislature, state executives, local officials, and judicial officials. Key Facts and Findings: - Problems with service availability in Minnesota's adult mental health system have persisted for years, limiting peace officers' options for referring persons with mental illness they take into custody. (p. 26) - The Department of Corrections has not collected reliable data from jails on the number of inmates assessed for mental illness. However, our surveys of sheriffs suggest that one-third of jail inmates may be on medications for a mental illness. (pp. 20, 21) - State rules do not adequately address some important areas of jail-based services, including mental health assessment of inmates following admission to jail. (pp. 46, 55) - Most sheriffs and county human services directors believe that jail inmates should have better access to psychiatric services, counseling, and case management than they now have. (p. 46) In addition, these officials widely believe that the number of beds in Minnesota's mental health facilities-particularly secure inpatient beds-is inadequate to meet current needs. (p. 29) - There is limited compliance with a state law that requires discharge planning for sentenced jail inmates with mental illness. (p. 66) - Contrary to law, some Minnesota defendants deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial remain in jail while awaiting court action on their possible civil commitment to competency treatment. Many incompetent defendants do not ultimately receive treatment to restore their competency. (pp. 83, 88) - A 2013 law (the "48-hour law") that gives jail inmates priority for placement into Department of Human Services (DHS) facilities has not always worked as intended, and it has limited the access of other patients to the Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center. (pp. 92-94) Details: St. Paul, MN: Office of the Legislative Auditor, 2016. 123p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 7, 2016 at: http://www.auditor.leg.state.mn.us/ped/pedrep/mhjails.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: http://www.auditor.leg.state.mn.us/ped/pedrep/mhjails.pdf Shelf Number: 138121 Keywords: County JailsJail InmatesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice Title: Strengthening Our Future: Key Elements to Developing a Trauma-Informed Juvenile Justice Diversion Program for Youth with Behavioral Health Conditions Summary: Developed by the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice (NCMHJJ) and the Technical Assistance Collaborative, Inc. (TAC) as part of the 2014-15 Policy Academy-Action Network Initiative, this report: - presents the current understanding of child trauma in the context of juvenile justice - identifies 9 implementation domains essential to achieving a trauma-informed juvenile justice diversion approach, and - highlights case examples from each state involved in the initiative (Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, and Tennessee). Details: Delmar, NY: Policy Research Associates, Inc., National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice, 2016. 61p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 12, 2016 at: http://www.ncmhjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/traumadoc012216-reduced-003.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: http://www.ncmhjj.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/traumadoc012216-reduced-003.pdf Shelf Number: 138209 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCommunity-Based TreatmentJuvenile DiversionJuvenile OffendersMental Health Services |
Author: Vanderloo, Mindy J. Title: Treating Offenders with Mental Illness: A Review of the Literature Summary: The persistent involvement of seriously mentally ill adults and juveniles in the criminal justice system is a growing concern for policy makers, administrators, and treatment providers in the criminal justice and mental health systems. While many researchers and practitioners have raised questions on how to prevent involvement and best treat adult and juvenile offenders with serious mental illness, empirical research has not advanced as quickly as the concerns. One difficulty contributing to the lack of research is the ethical concerns about conducting rigorous outcome research that would require the randomization of mentally ill participants into treatment and control groups. Additionally, many researchers have pointed out there is a lack of agreed upon outcomes measured in studies. For example, criminal justice systems are primarily interested in criminal justice outcomes, such as recidivism, while mental health providers are often concerned with mental health and quality of life outcomes. Despite the lag in empirical research studies, numerous intervention and treatment programs have been developed throughout the nation. The purpose of this report is to review recent research articles, governmental reports, and other publications related to the treatment of adult and juvenile offenders with serious mental illness within the criminal justice system. The first section of this report discusses the prevalence rates of offenders with mental illness and the relationship between mental illness and criminal conduct. The second section introduces a framework for the treatment of offenders with mental illness. The third section details research findings on existing interventions and treatment programs at points of contact within the criminal and juvenile justice system, including arrest, booking, court, incarceration, and probation and parole. This section also reviews interventions and programs for youthful and adult offenders in community and institutional settings including in addition to research on cost effectiveness. The report concludes with best practice recommendations for managing and treating mentally ill offenders in the criminal and juvenile justice system. Details: Salt Lake City: Utah Criminal Justice Center, University of Utah, 2012. 124p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 16, 2016 at: http://ucjc.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/MIO-butters-6-30-12-FINAL.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://ucjc.utah.edu/wp-content/uploads/MIO-butters-6-30-12-FINAL.pdf Shelf Number: 131172 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Durcan, Graham Title: The Bradley Report five years on. An independent review of progress to date and priorities for further development Summary: The five years since the Bradley Report was published have seen concerted action to improve support for people with mental health problems and those with learning difficulties in the criminal justice system. The Bradley Report five years on argues that this will need to be sustained for at least another five years to put the vision into practice nationwide. The Bradley Report five years on is the final report of an independent commission chaired by Lord Bradley to review progress since 2009 and identify priorities for further development. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2014. 36p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 16, 2016 at: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/the-bradley-report-five-years-on Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/the-bradley-report-five-years-on Shelf Number: 138304 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: California Corrections Standards Authority (CSA) Title: Mentally Ill Juveniles in Local Custody: Issues and Analysis Summary: This paper, "Mentally III Juveniles in Local Custody: Issues and Analysis," deals with the wide ranging and complex mental health considerations facing local juvenile halls, camps and ranches charged with the care of juvenile offenders. While the primary goal of this paper was to focus on custody-related issues, the Work Group felt it important to also address systemic and structural concerns as well as such non-custody matters as reentry, post-custody supervision, the need for more appropriate community and treatment placements, family involvement and continuity of care. Because local juvenile corrections is moving toward more comprehensive, collaborative, evidence based, client and family centered systems of care, the Work Group opted to address issues related to this emerging culture change, in addition to specific, facility related practices and considerations. If one idea or theme were to be singled out as most vitally important to the delivery of appropriate mental health services for youth in the juvenile justice system that theme would be collaboration. It is clear that the responsibility for youth in custody who have mental health problems is shared among multiple agencies and individuals. Courts, custody, health and mental health staff, substance abuse, school and social services I child welfare personnel all have important roles to play, as do family members and community support providers. No one agency has all the answers or all the best approaches. Mentally ill youth in custody present complex, multi-layered problems which demand collaborative, multi-agency solutions. Details: Sacramento: California Corrections Standards Authority, 2011. 81p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 25, 2016 at: http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/COMIO/docs/Menatlly_Ill_Juveniles_In_Local_Custody.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United States URL: http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/COMIO/docs/Menatlly_Ill_Juveniles_In_Local_Custody.pdf Shelf Number: 138413 Keywords: Juvenile Corrections Juvenile Detention Juvenile Inmates Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders, Juveniles |
Author: Northern Ireland. Criminal Justice Inspectorate Title: The Management of Life and Indeterminate Sentence Prisoners in Northern Ireland: A follow-up review Summary: Imprisonment for life is the ultimate sanction that the State can impose on offenders who commit the most serious criminal offences and who are deemed to represent a significant threat to the public. Reducing that risk, dealing with the underlying offending behaviour and preparing offenders for their eventual release must be the primary objective of our prison and probation services. This follow-up review has shown reasonable progress against the recommendations of our 2012 report. The opening of Burren House as a pre-release step-down facility on the fringe of Belfast city centre is critical in supporting the successful reintegration into society of life sentence prisoners nearing the end of their tariff. The facility provides one of the best examples of effective partnership working between the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS), the Probation Board for Northern Ireland (PBNI), and the voluntary and community sector (VCS). We are however disappointed that the integration of psychology services between the Prison Service and Probation Board has not shown the progress that we expect and which is required, if more effective services are to be delivered. The reduced funding for probation services in prisons will now mean that prison staff need to take on a much greater role in managing life sentence prisoners. They need to be fully trained to deliver this enhanced role and that will take time. We will continue to monitor progress in this area through our work on reducing reoffending and prison inspections. Details: Belfast: Northern Ireland Criminal Justice Inspectorate, 2016. 38p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 26, 2016 at: http://www.cjini.org/CJNI/files/db/db1ad9f6-91cb-49c7-bb02-2358a45cd40c.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.cjini.org/CJNI/files/db/db1ad9f6-91cb-49c7-bb02-2358a45cd40c.pdf Shelf Number: 138428 Keywords: Correctional Administration Correctional Programs Life Imprisonment Life Sentences Mental Health ServicesPrison Administration Rehabilitation |
Author: Minnesota. Office of the Legislative Auditor Title: Health Services in State Correctional Facilities Summary: - The Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) provides health services to inmates through a combination of its own employees and contracted services. - Inmates have considerable access to health care, although several important access issues merit attention. - DOC has not established a sufficiently coordinated, comprehensive approach for managing the care of individuals with chronic conditions. - The prison system's residential unit for persons with serious mental illness has increasingly provided crisis and stabilization services rather than therapeutic treatment. - DOC's compliance with professional standards is mixed, with room for improvement. - DOC has not developed a comprehensive staffing plan for health services. - Mechanisms for oversight, accountability, and quality improvement for DOC health services have been limited. - DOC has not regularly obtained information that would help it ensure that the administrative costs and profits of its health services contractor are reasonable. - DOC policy requires co-payments in a more limited set of circumstances than indicated by Minnesota statutes. Details: St. Paul: Office of the Legislative Auditor, 2014. 135p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 30, 2016 at: http://www.auditor.leg.state.mn.us/ped/pedrep/prisonhealth.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: http://www.auditor.leg.state.mn.us/ped/pedrep/prisonhealth.pdf Shelf Number: 138495 Keywords: Correctional InstitutionsHealth CareMental Health ServicesPrisons |
Author: New Jersey. Commission on Violence Title: Report of the Study Commission on Violence Summary: The Study Commission on Violence discharged its duty to examine trends and sources of violence, the impact of violence on the community, identified funding opportunities that address violence, and the mental health system through the receipt of subject matter expert briefings, public hearings, and its own independent research. This report summarizes the Study Commission's findings and its recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor. Violence in our communities is a concern we heard expressed time and again in our public hearings and in examining data related to the frequency of violence in New Jersey. There is no one source of violence or a single impact on the communities where it occurs. Rather, violence is brought on by a host of socio-economic factors and individual decisions made by people who choose to perpetrate violent acts against others or themselves. While "violence" is an all-encompassing term, it can also be imprecise. Deaths due to violence are at a generational low; yet, violence remains stubbornly high in certain areas - in New Jersey, roughly 80 percent of all violent crime occurs in just 21 cities. It is not coincidental that these cities also have lower rates of high school graduation, higher rates of unemployment, lower rates of household income, and higher rates of school truancy. Violence does not occur in a vacuum; rather, it thrives in poor and disadvantaged communities where educational and economic opportunities are limited and residents have become accustomed to a certain level of lawlessness. In recent years, the challenges facing these communities have been compounded by economic turmoil that has resulted in reductions in law enforcement. Violence, however, is not confined to urban settings and occurs in suburban and rural communities as well. The issue of violence should be a concern to all New Jersey residents, to one degree or another. And while violent "street" crime is found disproportionately in a small number of places in New Jersey, certain crimes like domestic violence are more widespread. Still others, like elder abuse, are emerging as concerns in the community. At the same time, a consensus has begun to form around the manner in which those who are drug addicted, particularly those suffering from heroin addiction, are treated when they are arrested. Whereas public policy once focused exclusively on incarcerating individuals, even for low-level offenses, for significant periods of time, current policy has shifted toward diverting non-violent offenders away from incarceration and into treatment. Moreover, this trend has extended into how law enforcement treats juvenile delinquents. Through diversion programs that offer community-based oversight, some county youth detention facilities have closed because too few juveniles are being remanded to custody and the number of juveniles in Juvenile Justice Commission facilities has dropped by roughly half. Of course, violence is not limited to acts by one person against another. Self-directed violence in the form of suicide and attempted suicide is also prevalent in our country. Indeed, the number of suicides that occur nationally each year is more than twice the number of homicides that occur in our nation. The Study Commission took seriously its charge to examine the trends, sources, and impact of violence in the community, the availability of grant funding to combat violence, the implementation of expanded involuntary outpatient commitments, and whether and how defendants with identified mental health disabilities but who are charged with crimes, can be offered an alternative to incarceration in the form of a structured, case managed program of treatment and counseling. The Commission learned that there are a wide range of programs and services available to those with a diagnosed mental health disability or illness. Indeed, coverage for mental health treatment is now available to more individuals through the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. That said, issues still remain regarding access to that treatment due to limited resources and reimbursement for practitioners who treat these patients. With respect to at least one specific charge of the Commission - examining the involuntary outpatient commitment program and whether it should be extended statewide - the Commission determined that this has been mooted by legislation passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor. Details: s.l.: The Commission, 2015. 79p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 23, 2016 at: https://assets.documentcloud.org/documents/2455899/study-commission-on-violence-report.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United States URL: https://assets.documentcloud.org/documents/2455899/study-commission-on-violence-report.pdf Shelf Number: 138801 Keywords: Gang ViolenceGun ViolenceGun-Related ViolenceHomicidesMental Health ServicesSocioeconomic Conditions and CrimeSuicidesUrban AreasViolenceViolent Crime |
Author: Care Quality Commission Title: A safer place to be: Findings from our survey of health-based places of safety for people detained under section 136 of the Mental Health Act Summary: In January and February 2014 we carried out a survey of NHS mental health trusts and social enterprise providers of health-based places of safety in England. The purpose of this survey was to examine the provision and use of health-based places of safety for people detained under section 136 of the Mental Health Act (the power that police officers have to detain people, believed to have a mental disorder, in a public place and to take them to a place of safety for assessment), especially as a means of understanding the availability and accessibility of the places of safety. The survey focused on: The availability, in practice, of health-based places of safety. Accessibility, including any exclusion criteria. Staffing and training of those involved in operating places of safety. Target times and delays in carrying out MHA assessments after people have been taken to places of safety. Governance, reporting and multi-agency working. The role of police and ambulance services. Overall we found that some places of safety are operating effectively, with innovative examples of positive practice and organisational developments. However, there was also evidence that recommended national standards are not being fully met in a range of areas. There are four key findings that we believe need to be urgently addressed: 1.Too many places of safety are turning people away or requiring people to wait for long periods with the police, because they are already full or because there are staffing problems. 2.Too many providers operate policies that exclude young people, people who are intoxicated, and people with disturbed behaviour from all of their places of safety. 3.Too many commissioners are not adequately fulfilling their responsibilities for maintaining an oversight of the section 136 pathway. 4.Too many providers are not appropriately monitoring their own service provision. This makes it difficult for those providers and their commissioners to evaluate if provision is meeting the needs of people in their local area. Details: Newcastle upon Tyne, UK: Care Quality Commission, 2014. 63p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 8, 2016 at: http://www.cqc.org.uk/sites/default/files/20141021%20CQC_SaferPlace_2014_07_FINAL%20for%20WEB.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.cqc.org.uk/sites/default/files/20141021%20CQC_SaferPlace_2014_07_FINAL%20for%20WEB.pdf Shelf Number: 139325 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders Mentally Ill Persons |
Author: King's College London Title: PROTECT: Provider Responses Treatment and Care for Trafficked People Summary: Human trafficking is the recruitment and movement of people - often by means such as coercion, deception, and abuse of vulnerability - for the purpose of exploitation. Trafficked people experience multiple health risks prior to, during, and following their trafficking experiences, and many suffer acute and longer term health problems. As such, National Health Service (NHS) professionals have an essential role in the identification, referral, and clinical care of trafficked people in England. Human trafficking now falls within the United Kingdom's (UK) 'Modern Slavery Act, 2015', which received Royal Assent on 26th March 2015. The Modern Slavery Act addresses both human trafficking and slavery, defining slavery as knowingly holding a person in slavery or servitude or knowingly requiring a person to perform forced or compulsory labour. Yet, despite this renewed focus, there remains extremely limited evidence to inform health service responses to human trafficking. A systematic review conducted in 2012 found that previous research into the health needs of trafficked people focused predominantly on women in low and middle income countries who had been trafficked for sexual exploitation. Very little evidence existed on the needs of trafficked children, trafficked men, and of women trafficked for domestic servitude and labour exploitation, particularly in high income country settings. Evidence was also lacking on which healthcare services were most likely to be accessed by trafficked people and under what circumstances, and on the knowledge and training needs of NHS professionals. Our research programme therefore aimed to provide evidence to inform the NHS response to human trafficking, specifically the identification and safe referral of trafficked people and the provision of appropriate care to meet their health needs. The research programme was designed based on three core objectives: (1) To synthesise evidence on the number of trafficked adults and children identified and using NHS services in England, the healthcare needs of trafficked people, and their experiences and use of healthcare; (2) to document NHS experience, knowledge and gaps about trafficked people's health care needs; and (3) to provide recommendations research-based papers and dissemination strategies to support NHS staff to identify, refer and care for trafficked people and to become a strategic partner within the UK National Referral Mechanism (NRM)1 and with other agencies. Details: London: King's College London, 2015. 190p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 27, 2016 at: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn/depts/hspr/research/CEPH/wmh/assets/PROTECT-Report.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn/depts/hspr/research/CEPH/wmh/assets/PROTECT-Report.pdf Shelf Number: 140060 Keywords: HealthcareHuman TraffickingMedical ServicesMental Health ServicesVictim ServicesVictims of Human Trafficking |
Author: Parsonage, Michael Title: Traumatic Brain Injury and Offending: An Economic Analysis Summary: Over a million people in this country live with the consequences of traumatic brain injury, at a cost to the economy of around L15 billion a year. Funded by the Barrow Cadbury Trust as part of its Transition to Adulthood programme, this report presents an analysis of the costs of traumatic brain injury, with particular reference to the links between head injury and crime. Traumatic brain injury (TBI), also described as head injury, is any injury to the brain caused by impact, for example a direct blow to the head or a force that causes the brain to move around inside the skull. Common causes are falls, road accidents, collisions and violence. Head injuries vary greatly in severity, depending on whether and for how long they result in a loss of consciousness or post-traumatic amnesia. About 10-15% of all TBIs are classified as moderate or severe and the remaining 85- 90% as mild. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2016. 36p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 3, 2016 at: http://www.barrowcadbury.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Traumatic-brain-injury-and-offending-an-economic-analysis.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.barrowcadbury.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Traumatic-brain-injury-and-offending-an-economic-analysis.pdf Shelf Number: 140151 Keywords: Brain InjuryDisabilityMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersNeurological Disorders |
Author: Chari, Karishma A. Title: National Survey of Prison Health Care: Selected Findings Summary: Objectives - This report presents selected findings on the provision of health care services in U.S. state prisons. Findings on admissions testing for infectious disease, cardiovascular risk factors, and mental health conditions, as well as the location of the provision of care and utilization of telemedicine are all included. Methods - Data are from the National Survey of Prison Health Care (NSPHC). The survey aimed to conduct semi-structured telephone interviews with respondents from all 50 state Departments of Corrections and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Interviews were conducted in 2012 for calendar year 2011. The level of participation varied by state and questionnaire item. Results - Overall, 45 states participated in NSPHC. In 2011, the percentages of prison admissions occurring in states that tested at least some prisoners for the following conditions during the admissions process were: 76.9% for hepatitis A, 82.0% for hepatitis B, 87.3% for hepatitis C, 100.0% for tuberculosis, 100.0% for mental health conditions and suicide risk, 40.3% for traumatic brain injury , 82.5% for cardiovascular conditions and risk factors using electrocardiogram, 70.0% for elevated lipids, and 99.8% for high blood pressure. Of the 45 states that participated in the survey, most states delivered several services on-site, including inpatient and outpatient mental health care (27 and 44 states, respectively), care for chronic diseases (31 states), long-term or nursing home care (35 states), and hospice care (35 states). For inpatient and outpatient medical, dental, and emergency care, most states delivered services using a combination of on-site and off-site care locations. Most states delivered selected diagnostic procedures and radiologic tests off-site. Telemedicine was most commonly used for psychiatry (28 states). Details: Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016. 23p. Source: Internet Resource: national Health Statistics Reports No. 96: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr096.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr096.pdf Shelf Number: 140152 Keywords: Correctional Health ServicesMental Health ServicesPrison Health CarePrison Medical CarePrisoners |
Author: LeCroy & Milligan Associates, Inc. Title: Compass Behavioral Health Care Greater Arizona Reintegration Services Project (GARSP) Bi-annual Report October 2012 Summary: This bi-annual report presents the findings of the Greater Arizona Reintegration Services Project (GARSP) evaluation for the cumulative Year 2 time-frame of October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012. GARSP is a project of Compass Behavior Health Care (CBHC) and is funded by a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The report presents data required by SAMHSA, results of the implementation study, recommendations for continued program improvement, and next steps of the evaluation. CBHC was awarded an Offender Reentry Program (ORP) grant from SAMHSA to expand and enhance substance abuse treatment and related recovery and reentry services to adult offenders (ages 18 and over), returning to Pima County from several Arizona prisons. GARSP has four primary goals: 1) to increase statewide collaborative efforts to reduce recidivism, substance abuse/use and increase self-sufficiency and stability among the offender population; 2) to promote sobriety and improved mental health status among participants; 3) to provide participants with a continuum of treatment and supportive services; and 4) to provide treatment and support services with evidence-based practices to improve the ability of each individual to achieve self-sufficiency and stability. Details: Tucson, AZ: LeCroy & Milligan Associates, 2012. 42p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 12, 2016 at: http://www.lecroymilligan.com/data/resources/compassgarspyear-2-annual-reportfinal10-22-2012-1.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: http://www.lecroymilligan.com/data/resources/compassgarspyear-2-annual-reportfinal10-22-2012-1.pdf Shelf Number: 145404 Keywords: Drug TreatmentMental Health ServicesPrisoner ReentrySubstance Abuse Treatment |
Author: Allnock, Debbie Title: Mapping the therapeutic services for sexual abuse in the UK in 2015 Summary: About the mapping exercise 1. The International Centre: Researching Child Sexual Exploitation, Trafficking and Violence at the University of Bedfordshire was commissioned by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) to undertake a mapping exercise – across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland - of therapeutic services for children and young people who have experienced any form of child sexual abuse (CSA), including child sexual exploitation (CSE). This mapping exercise was intended to be an update, and facilitate a comparative analysis with the 2007 audit. However, different samples and the more limited nature of the exercise means that it is inadvisable to make direct comparisons. However, the current mapping exercise has revealed new insights about a broader range of services than were included in the previous 2007 audit. 2. The current mapping exercise consisted of: 1) identification of generalist and specialist services in the four nations providing therapeutic support for any form of child sexual abuse, including child sexual exploitation (n=750); 2) an online questionnaire distributed to all identified services; 3) a small number of followup telephone interviews with service providers and 4) a small number of telephone interviews with service commissioners. A total of 130 respondents provided data in the questionnaire on 149 services, giving a service response rate of 20%. Key findings There were a range of findings across funding and commissioning experiences of services, provision for children and young people, current service use and met and unmet need among the sample. Key findings include: Obtaining full and accurate data on current service use is complex and difficult, and the task has not improved since the 2007 audit where similar difficulties were encountered. A key recommendation in that report was an improvement in the recording of data, particularly by services such as Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHs) but the evidence suggests this has not been addressed. This makes it incredibly difficult to establish solid evidence about the need/demand for services and whether or not current provision is adequately meeting the demand. Some of the generalist services in the current mapping exercise were unable to provide referral figures on CSA/CSE because they do not tend to disaggregate their figures on this particular issue. The referral data provided in the current mapping exercise shows an overall gap (a 12% current gap and an anticipated gap of 17% in future) in provision across the services in this sample to children and young people who have experienced child sexual abuse / exploitation. While some children may be referred to other services, there are likely to be some children who do not receive a service, or do not receive a timely service. The mapping exercise revealed a large number of services across the UK comprised of both specialist and generalist services which exist across statutory, voluntary and private sectors and in some case comprise multiagency initiatives. Whilst specialist services have been identified by some commentators to be more responsive and tailored to victims of sexual violence, it is clear that in the current climate of increasing awareness and demand, generalist services are identifying and supporting children and young people who have experienced CSA / CSE. Despite variation in the needs and support required between younger children and older children who have experienced CSA/ CSE, some services are supporting both groups. What is less clear is whether these services are effectively equipped to provide specialised support to meet the needs of children and young people experiencing different forms of CSA. SARCs have been an important development in provision of streamlined support for victims of sexual violence, although a key finding identified both in the literature and within this mapping exercise is a lack of emotional support within these services for children and young people who have experienced child sexual abuse / exploitation. Since the 2007 audit, there appears to have been little change in the funding environment for CSA. Greater awareness of CSE means that it is possible that there has been more attention given to funding specialist services in this area at the expense of services dedicated to other forms of CSA. Across specialist services, funding continues to be provided through insecure and short-term funding cycles which are at odds with the nature of the provision required to adequately support children and young people with these experiences. Services continue to devote an enormous amount of time and energy to chasing new funding streams, which, they say diverts energy and time away from delivering quality services to children and young people. Service providers and commissioners have noted how complex and confusing the commissioning environment is, creating more stress and insecurity for providers. Service providers feel confident that they will continue to be funded but this confidence derives primarily from an optimism about their reputations and the current high priority of CSA/CSE rather than having actually secured future funding. Some referral sources for services are more developed than others; only 50% of services are seeing/accepting referrals from the police, for example and fewer from youth justice and youth services. CAMHs remain difficult to access and the situation appears to be declining in some areas in the face of funding cuts in recent years. Providers view CAMHs as largely difficult to access, a finding which has been identified in other studies and reviews of services. Almost all services, however, set eligibility criteria to restrict access. Age is one of the more common criteria and the mapping exercise has shown that, at least among the current sample, services for younger children are scarce while services for older children and adolescents are in somewhat greater supply. Although there is significant variability in the quality and amount of referral data received, the patterns of service provision suggest that it is White British girls without disabilities who comprise the largest group receiving services. Creative therapies remain a common approach in working with children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse. The ‘therapeutic relationship’ is also very common across services which focus on child sexual exploitation as well as other forms of child sexual abuse. Services are largely only accessible during the hours of 9 to 5 during the weekdays. For children and young people who may want and need support outside of these hours, provision is scarce. Children and young people with eating disorders, substance abuse problems, additional mental health needs and young offenders are most likely to be referred onwards to another service for help. Details: University of Bedfordshire, The International Centre: Researching Child Sexual Exploitation, Trafficking and Violence, 2015. 100p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed December 7, 2016 at: https://www.beds.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/504283/mapping-therapeutic-services-sexual-abuse-uk-2015.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.beds.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/504283/mapping-therapeutic-services-sexual-abuse-uk-2015.pdf Shelf Number: 147941 Keywords: Child Sexual AbuseChild Sexual ExploitationMental Health ServicesSex CrimesSexual AbuseSexual ViolenceVictim Services |
Author: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Title: Vulnerable Young People: Interactions across homelessness, youth justice and child protection Summary: This report reveals that individuals who experience multiple, cross-sector services in the specialist homelessness, protection or youth justice service areas are a particularly vulnerable group. Clients experiencing 2 or more of these services were more likely than specialist homelessness services-only clients: to report having substance use issues; to report having mental health issues; to have an over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; and to receive more days of support and more support periods from specialist homelessness services agencies. Details: Canberra: AIHW, 2016. 68p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed December 13, 2016 at: http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=60129557799 Year: 2016 Country: Australia URL: http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=60129557799 Shelf Number: 146102 Keywords: At-Risk YouthChild ProtectionDisadvantaged YouthHomeless YouthHomelessnessMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Persons |
Author: Revolving Doors Agency Title: Rebalancing Act: A resource for Directors of Public Health, Police and Crime Commissioners and other health and justice commissioners, service providers and users. Summary: This resource is structured around the themes of policy; prevalence; and partnership and governance. In adopting this approach, we have tried to provide an introduction to the context, the need for action, and to highlight some of the activity being undertaken now in local areas to try to address some of the challenges outlined here. The prevalence of health and social problems among those in contact with the CJS is high. This resource draws on a range of published data to illustrate this, and in doing so highlights one of the biggest obstacles in any attempt to redesign systems at a local level. Much of the data is incomplete, out of date, unpublished, or otherwise problematic. It is also widely dispersed, across Government statistical releases and reports, academic journals, and a host of other stakeholders including the police, probation, Jobcentre Plus, health services and local authorities. This highlights the importance of partnership. • The intention is that Rebalancing Act will be the first of a suite of documents; further briefings will provide the opportunity to give further consideration to matters such as NHS sustainability and transformation plans and commissioning. Due to the limited and fragmented data and intelligence, we argue that partnership is central not only to the place-based delivery of services but also to the place-based assessment of need and planning of services. While the need to break out of system siloes has long been understood, the introduction of PCCs and other recent changes, such as devolution deals, may facilitate moves towards this through moving decisions and, crucially, funding to a local level. While these new flexibilities are to be welcomed, this must be tempered with the realisation that public services are operating under serious financial constraints, and that it appears likely that this will remain in the case for the foreseeable future. This resource, of necessity, can only provide a quick tour of some of the most salient factors. This is, in part, due to the wide audience it is written for, which includes: • Police and Crime Commissioners • Directors of Public Health • Clinical commissioning groups • NHS England Health and Justice Commissioners • HM Courts and Tribunals Service • Prison governors • Local authority members • Directors of housing • Directors of adult social care • Directors of children’s and family services • Directors of education • Community Rehabilitation Companies and the National Probation Service • Chief police officers and police services • Voluntary and community sector • Jobcentre Plus managers and providers of labour market programmes • User and family representatives Once stakeholders have been identified and engaged, the call is for the following, straightforward approach to services and systems to be adopted, based on the Shewhart cycle of continuous improvement: plan, do, check and adjust: • build understanding of the specific health needs of people in contact with the criminal justice system locally; • engage with communities, including service users and those with lived experience; • commission and deliver programmes jointly with partners across the system, including developing early intervention and prevention programmes; and monitor and evaluate progress and change. Details: London: Revolving Doors Agency, 2017. 62p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed January 25, 2017 at: http://www.revolving-doors.org.uk/file/2048/download?token=Y0kaa9j0 Year: 2017 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.revolving-doors.org.uk/file/2048/download?token=Y0kaa9j0 Shelf Number: 147826 Keywords: Health CareMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Durcan, Graham Title: Immigration Removal Centres in England: A mental health needs analysis Summary: Between March 2015 and March 2016, over 30,000 people were held in UK immigration detention. Many of these people had experienced torture, trauma and oppression in their countries of origin. In response to the Shaw Report (2016) which highlighted the poor mental wellbeing of people detained in Immigration Removal Centres (IRCs), Centre for Mental Health was commissioned by NHS England to conduct a rapid mental health needs analysis of IRCs in England. The resulting review aims to support NHS England and the Home Office in planning to meet the wellbeing and mental health needs of people held in IRCs. To gain a full oversight of mental health needs in IRCs, we conducted interviews with staff and detainees, asked managers to complete a survey, and conducted observations of each IRC. Ten IRCs (or 'holding facilities') were included in the needs analysis. Mental health and immigration detention Research into the impact of detention has consistently highlighted that: • Immigration detention has a negative impact on mental health • The longer someone spends in detention, the more negative an impact it has upon their mental health • Depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are the most common mental health problems A study conducted across four UK IRCs in 2009 found that four out of five detainees met a clinical threshold for depression. Mental wellbeing in IRCs All immigration detainees will face challenges to their wellbeing during their stay. Even if they do not reach a clinical threshold, the distress they experience is still disabling and even life-threatening. Across the IRCs in our needs analysis, the most commonly reported problem was depressed mood and anxiety problems, and the most severe reported problems were hallucinations or delusions. Most of the detainees we interviewed had experienced some form of trauma in their life before detention, e.g. fleeing a country where they were being persecuted; witnessing loved ones being killed; experiencing domestic violence, sex trafficking or female genital mutilation; or fleeing a death sentence. They also highlighted issues of mental health stigma and language barriers in discussing wellbeing. Impact of detention on mental wellbeing Detainees and staff both described the impact of detention on people's wellbeing. The challenges to wellbeing were partly caused by loss of liberty, the feeling of staying in a prison-like regime, and uncertainty about their future. Additionally, confusion about the legal procedures caused a huge amount of distress to detainees. Details: London: Centre for Mental Health, 2017. 50p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 1, 2017 at: https://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/immigration-removal-centres Year: 2017 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/immigration-removal-centres Shelf Number: 145100 Keywords: Illegal ImmigrantsImmigrant DetentionMental Health Services |
Author: Pope, Leah G. Title: Creating a Culture of Safety: Sentinel Event Reviews for Suicide and Self-Harm in Correctional Facilities Summary: Since 2011, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), through its Sentinel Events Initiative, has been investigating the feasibility of using a sentinel events approach to review and learn from errors in the criminal justice system such as wrongful convictions, eyewitness misidentifications, or incidents of suicide and self-harm in custody. Recognizing that adverse situations are rarely caused by a single event or the actions of an individual person, NIJ defines a sentinel event as a significant negative outcome that: 1) signals underlying weaknesses in a system or process; 2) is likely the result of compound errors; and 3) may provide, if properly analyzed and addressed, important keys to strengthening the system and preventing future adverse events or outcomes. With funding from NIJ, the Vera Institute of Justice (Vera) has been examining the applicability and appropriateness of using sentinel event reviews for incidents of suicide and serious self-harm in detention. This report focuses on these incidents as prime opportunities to implement sentinel event reviews in the criminal justice context. Details: New York: Vera Institute of Justice, 2017. 33p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 28, 2017 at: https://www.vera.org/publication_downloads/culture-of-safety-sentinel-event-suicide-self-harm-correctional-facilities/culture-of-safety.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://www.vera.org/publication_downloads/culture-of-safety-sentinel-event-suicide-self-harm-correctional-facilities/culture-of-safety.pdf Shelf Number: 141251 Keywords: Mental HealthMental Health ServicesPrison SuicidePrisonersSelf-HarmSuicide |
Author: Davidson, Cheryl Title: Evaluation of the Statewide "Enhanced" Drug Courts Offering Mental Health Services for Substance Abusing Offenders in Iowa Summary: Adult drug courts in five Iowa judicial districts were provided drug court enhancement funding in the fall of 2012 to integrate mental health services into the program. The purpose of the grant was to expand drug court eligibility, improve access to mental health services, enhance mental health service delivery, and improve client outcomes. A process and outcomes evaluation was conducted to examine the effectiveness of the mental health enhancement. Process Evaluation Drug court team members believed there was a need for mental health services and co-occurring disorders were prevalent however; participants with serious mental illnesses would fall outside the realm of what the drug courts could handle. One difficulty identified by staff was defining the primary cause of clients’ problems; whether substance abuse or mental health issues. Better screening tools and resources to help identify prevailing issues may improve the administration of services. Some respondents said their mental health coordinator, provided through enhancement funding, helped expand program eligibility by enabling the court to better deal with mental health issues. The coordinator provided advice to the team and other offenders in the court and some staff indicated this person was more trusted by offenders than other court/correctional personnel. Others indicated program barriers like funding cuts or having too many/few referrals limited inclusiveness, despite the added capacity. Outcome Evaluation Program completion, supervision revocation, recidivism, relapse, and substance abuse treatment were examined. Study groups included current drug court offenders during the grant period (Current DC), a subset of current drug court offenders who received grant-funded mental health services (DC MH), a comparison group of pre-enhancement drug court offenders (Historical DC), and a group of similar offenders on probation for drug offenses (Matched Probation). In a three-year tracking period, the Current DC group had lower recidivism rates compared to the Historical DC group. This could be due to the drug court enhancement or other changes to the program. Participants of the funded mental health services did not statistically differ from nonparticipants. Several confounding factors, discussed in the key findings, may have contributed. The outcomes varied by district, consistent with the discretion given to courts in administering services. Providing more guidance to the courts in defining the enhancement target population and administering mental health services may have provided more consistency across the state. The cost per mental health participant funded by the enhancement grant ranged from $1,258.21 in District 5, to $2,541.40 in District 6. Details: Des Moines: Iowa Department of Justice Rights, Division of Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning, 2016. 86p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 7, 2017 at: https://humanrights.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/media/CJJP_Enhanced_Drug_Court_Report.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: https://humanrights.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/media/CJJP_Enhanced_Drug_Court_Report.pdf Shelf Number: 141367 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationDrug CourtsDrug OffendersMental Health ServicesProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: Pattinson, Tamara Title: Prison as a place of safety for women with complex mental health needs Summary: The purpose of this study was to examine whether prison is being used as a 'place of safety' for women who have complex mental health needs and deemed in need of 'protection' from themselves. The research is based on interviews with police, court and prison staff. The researcher was also able to examine a number of warrants received from the courts to establish the reason for disposal into custody with specific emphasis on those cases where 'own protection' was the primary factor. The findings suggest that the current use of prison as a place of safety for women with complex heath needs is unworkable, flawed and potentially dangerous and not in the best interests of the women offenders and prison staff. Details: London: Griffins Society, 2016. 58p. Source: Internet Resource: Research Paper 2015/01: Accessed April 5, 2017 at: http://www.thegriffinssociety.org/system/files/papers/fullreport/griffins_research_paper_2015-01.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.thegriffinssociety.org/system/files/papers/fullreport/griffins_research_paper_2015-01.pdf Shelf Number: 144719 Keywords: Female Offenders Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders Women Prisoners |
Author: Council of Europe Title: Report to the Government of the United Kingdom on the visit to the United Kingdom carried out by the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) Summary: The CPT's 2016 periodic visit to the United Kingdom provided an opportunity to review the treatment of persons held in adult and juvenile prisons and police custody in England for the first time since 2008. It also looked at immigration detention. Further, the visit had a specific focus on in-patient adult psychiatry and medium and high secure forensic psychiatry establishments in England. A good level of co-operation was received from both the national authorities and the staff at the establishments visited. However, on a few occasions, access to places of detention was delayed, and the CPT underlines that better coordination is needed to ensure that access to all establishments is rapid and information about the Committee's mandate is disseminated more widely. More generally, in light of the principle of co-operation, the CPT trusts that prompt and effective action is now taken to address long-standing recommendations such as prison overcrowding. Law enforcement agencies The CPT's delegation found that most people deprived of their liberty by the police were treated in a correct manner. It did, however, receive some allegations of verbal abuse from officers towards detained persons at the moment of apprehension and during transport to custody suites and of handcuffs being applied excessively tightly at the time of arrest. The CPT recommends that the United Kingdom authorities make it clear that verbal abuse towards detained persons is unacceptable and that handcuffs should never be applied excessively tightly. The CPT notes that there appeared to be no uniform approach to the use of means of restraint across the 43 police forces in England and Wales and it recommends that the safety of the use of 'spit helmets', velcro fixation straps and Emergency Response Belts in police custody suites be reviewed. Moreover, the CPT recommends that 'Pava' spray should not form part of the standard equipment of custodial staff and should not be used in confined spaces. In general, persons deprived of their liberty by the police were afforded the safeguards laid down in PACE Code C. However, several deficiencies were observed such as a protection vacuum when arrested persons had to wait for up to two hours in holding rooms before their detention was formally authorised and before they were informed of their rights by custody sergeants. The CPT recommends that all detained persons should be fully informed of their rights as from the very outset of their deprivation of liberty (and thereafter of any authorised delay) and current deficiencies impeding the complete recording of the fact of a person's detention should be rectified. Access to a lawyer and a doctor or nurse was generally being facilitated promptly in all police establishments visited. However, there was a lack of respect for lawyer-client confidentiality during consultation by telephone at Southwark and Doncaster Police Stations. As regards custody records, the CPT recommends that whenever a person is deprived of their liberty this fact is formally and accurately recorded without delay and without misrepresentation as to the location of custody, which was not the case at the TACT suite at Paddington Green Police Station. The material conditions of the custody cells in the police establishments visited were generally of a good standard. There was, however, a lack of access to natural light in many cells and most establishments visited were not equipped with proper exercise yards. The conditions at Paddington Green 'TACT' Suite, in particular, were inadequate and needed upgrading. Adult and juvenile prisons The CPT welcomes the recent recognition of the need for profound reform of the prison system at the highest political level. The CPT's delegation discussed the nature and scope of the prison reform agenda with the authorities, where it stressed the problem of violence in prisons. In the view of the CPT, taking resolute action to tackle the problem of violence in prisons in England and Wales is a prerequisite for the successful implementation of other elements of the authorities' reform agenda. The CPT recalls that the adverse effects of overcrowding and lack of purposeful regime have been repeatedly highlighted by the Committee since 1990. Over the last 25 years, the prison population has nearly doubled, and almost all adult prisons now operate at or near full operational capacity and well above their certified normal capacity. The CPT emphasises that unless determined action is taken to significantly reduce the current prison population, the regime improvements envisaged by the authorities' reform agenda will remain unattainable. The CPT's delegation received almost no complaints about physical ill-treatment of inmates by staff in the prisons visited. Nevertheless, it did receive a few complaints about verbal abuse and observed tense relations between staff and inmates. It was, however, deeply concerned by the amount of severe generalised violence evident in each of the prisons visited, notably inter-prisoner violence and attacks by prisoners on staff. Injuries to both prisoners and staff, documented over the previous three months, included inter alia cases of scalding water being thrown over victims and 'shank' (make-shift knife) wounds, and frequently required hospitalisation and in one case resulted in the death of an inmate. The CPT examined the violence through the prism of three criteria: recording incidents of violence, responding to such incidents and specific measures taken to reduce violence. Despite the considerable number of instruments established to capture data regarding violent incidents, there were systemic and structural weaknesses in the documentation process. At both Doncaster and Pentonville Prisons, the delegation gained the impression that the actual number of violent incidents appreciably exceeded the number recorded. This issue appeared to be particularly acute at Doncaster Prison, where the delegation established that some violent incidents had either not been recorded or recorded as being less serious than they were in practice. Moreover, the delegation observed first-hand that violent incidents were not always reported by staff. While the number of recorded violent incidents at all prisons visited was alarmingly high, the CPT believes that these figures under-record the actual number of incidents and consequently fail to afford a true picture of the severity of the situation. Further, inmates at both Doncaster and Pentonville Prisons complained that staff responded slowly to violent incidents. This fuelled a feeling of fear and a perception of a lack of safety among inmates. The consequence was a lack of trust in the staff's ability to maintain prisoner safety. As a start, the CPT recommends that the time taken to respond to inmates' call bells be improved. The CPT is also not convinced of the effectiveness of the specific ongoing measures initiated to reduce and prevent violence and recommends that a far greater investment in preventing violence be undertaken. The CPT's findings in the establishments visited indicate that the duty of care to protect prisoners was not always being discharged given the apparent lack of effective action to reduce the high levels of violence. The cumulative effect of certain systemic failings was that none of the establishments visited could be considered safe for prisoners or staff. The CPT recommends that concrete measures be taken to bring prisons back under the effective control of staff, reversing the recent trends of escalating violence. At Cookham Wood YOI, the high levels of violence were managed primarily through locking juveniles up for long periods of time, on occasion for up to 23.5 hours per day; greater investment in establishing more small specialised units to manage juveniles with complex needs should be made. The CPT underlines that many aspects of prison life are negatively affected by the state of overcrowding in the prison system. For example, living conditions in the prisons visited, in particular Pentonville Prison, were adversely affected by the chronic overcrowding: cells originally designed for one prisoner now hold two. Equally, overcrowding also significantly affects the regime. The delegation found that the regimes in all prison establishments visited were inadequate, with a considerable number of prisoners spending up to 22 hours per day locked up in their cells. Many inmates stated that the long lock-up times contributed to a sense of frustration. The CPT recommends that steps be taken to ensure that inmates attend education and purposeful activities on a daily basis, with the aim that all inmates on a normal regime spend at least eight hours out-of-cell. At Cookham Wood YOI, juveniles on a normal regime spent on average only five hours out of their cells each day. The situation was particularly austere for those juveniles who were placed on 'separation' lists (denoted by vivid pink stickers of 'do not unlock' on their cell doors), who could spend up to 23.5 hours a day locked up alone in their cells. In the CPT's view, holding juveniles in such conditions amounts to inhuman and degrading treatment and all juveniles should be provided with a purposeful regime and considerably more time of cell than is currently the case. As regards the provision of health-care in the prisons visited, the delegation noted that health-care staffing levels were, with a few exceptions, adequate and there was generally good medical documentation of injuries. Medical screening of prisoners upon arrival was of a good quality and carried out promptly. That said, medical confidentiality was not always respected. For example, medication was given to prisoners in corridors or dispensed through a hatch in view of other prisoners. Also prisoners continued to be systematically handcuffed during hospital transfers; the CPT reiterates that handcuffs should only be applied after an individualised risk assessment. Delays in prisoners with mental-health problems being transferred to psychiatric hospitals, in some cases for several months, remain a problem. Further, the placement of prisoners with acute mental health conditions in segregation units is inappropriate. The CPT recommends that prisoners suffering from severe mental illnesses are transferred immediately to an appropriate mental health facility. In this connection, high priority should be given to increasing the number of beds in psychiatric hospitals to ensure that in-patient health-care units, such as the one at Pentonville Prison, do not become a substitute for the transfer of a patient to a dedicated facility. Further, all prison staff should be trained to recognise the major symptoms of mental ill-health and understand referral procedures. Details: Strasbourg: Council of Europe, 2017. 102p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 22, 2017 at: https://rm.coe.int/CoERMPublicCommonSearchServices/DisplayDCTMContent?documentId=090000168070a773 Year: 2017 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://rm.coe.int/CoERMPublicCommonSearchServices/DisplayDCTMContent?documentId=090000168070a773 Shelf Number: 145160 Keywords: Correctional HealthHuman RightsJuvenile Detention CentersMental Health ServicesPolice BehaviorPolicingPrison ConditionsPrison Violence |
Author: University of Texas. Austin School of Law. Civil Rights Clinic Title: Preventable Tragedies: How to Reduce Mental Health-Related Deaths in Texas Jails Summary: The first section of this report tells the stories of ten tragic and preventable deaths in Texas jails. These ten people suffered from mental disorders and related health needs, and died unexpectedly in jail as a result of neglect or treatment failures. The second section of this report sets forth widely accepted policy recommendations based on national standards and best practices to improve diversion and treatment of persons with mental illness and related health needs who are incarcerated in Texas county jails. RECOMMENDATION NO. 1: INCREASE JAIL DIVERSION FOR LOW-RISK PEOPLE WITH MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS. As state and local stakeholders develop pretrial diversion programs, they should ensure that mental illness is factored in, and not as a barrier to pretrial release. In addition, the Legislature and counties should find new ways to reduce warrants and arrests for low-level misdemeanors, to prevent the use of jails for low-risk arrestees. RECOMMENDATION NO. 2: IMPROVE SCREENING. As counties implement the revised mental health screening instrument, they should train correctional officers to recognize signs of mental illness and suicide risk, and explore partnerships with their local mental health authority (LMHA) to have mental health professionals from the LMHA assist with intake screening. RECOMMENDATION NO. 3: INCREASE COMPLIANCE WITH TEX. CODE CRIM. P. 16.22 AND 17.032. The legislature should clarify the law to increase compliance with the requirement that magistrates be notified of an arrestee's mental illness or suicide risk, so as to enable pretrial diversion into mental health treatment when appropriate. Counties should implement the law's requirements, using partnerships with LMHAs if needed. RECOMMENDATION NO. 4: STRENGTHEN SUICIDE PREVENTION. Counties should make their suicide prevention plans more effective by: (1) increasing training and promoting culture change; (2) providing for ongoing suicide risk assessment throughout an inmate's stay in the jail; (3) avoiding housing at-risk inmates alone; (4) designating suicide-resistant cells; and (5) having mental health professionals assist with the assessment of suicide risk. RECOMMENDATION NO. 5: COLLABORATE WITH LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH AUTHORITIES. County jails should form broad - and preferably formal - partnerships with their area LMHAs, and work to place LMHA staff in the jail full-time. The Legislature should fund LMHAs to add capacity to provide more services in jails. RECOMMENDATION NO. 6: BOLSTER FORMULARIES. County jails should promote continuity of mental health care by (1) including in their formulary the medications listed in the local mental health authority's formulary and (2) contracting with outside providers to quickly acquire any medication not kept in stock. RECOMMENDATION NO. 7: PROMOTE MEDICATION CONTINUITY. County jails should promote continuity of care by allowing inmates to continue taking prescribed medication that the inmate had been taking prior to booking, after taking certain precautions. Specifically, county jails should replace policies of denying access to prescribed medications with more flexible alternatives. RECOMMENDATION NO. 8: DEVELOP AND UPDATE DETOX PROTOCOLS. Each county jail's health service plan should include a detoxification protocol for supporting withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and other commonly used substances, in conformance with current national standards. RECOMMENDATION NO. 9: ADD FORENSIC PEER SUPPORT. County jails should strengthen their mental health care services by implementing a forensic peer support program. RECOMMENDATION NO. 10: IMPROVE MONITORING. Counties should promote more effective monitoring of inmates by: (1) requiring jail staff to proactively engage inmates and take action during regular observation; (2) increasing the frequency of observation for at-risk inmates and setting irregular monitoring intervals; (3) ensuring adequate staffing; (4) using technology along with personal interaction to make observation more accountable; and (5) using technology to alert staff of inmate crises. RECOMMENDATION NO. 11: REDUCE THE USE OF RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION. County jails should (1) set an explicit goal to reduce the use of restraint and seclusion, with an eye toward eliminating them altogether; (2) abolish the most dangerous restraint and seclusion practices; and (3) train officers to reduce reliance on restraint and seclusion, and collect data to evaluate performance. The Texas Legislature should require stricter regulation of seclusion that mirrors its strict regulation of restraint. RECOMMENDATION NO. 12: LIMIT THE USE OF FORCE. County jails should strengthen their policies and training on use of force, explicitly address use of force against inmates with mental health needs, promote the goals of eliminating excessive use of force, and use force only as a last resort. Details: Austin: University of Texas School of law Civil Rights Clinic, 2016. 107p. Source: Internet Resources: Accessed May 6, 2017 at: https://law.utexas.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2016/11/2016-11-CVRC-Preventable-Tragedies.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: https://law.utexas.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2016/11/2016-11-CVRC-Preventable-Tragedies.pdf Shelf Number: 145336 Keywords: Deaths in Custody Jail InmatesMental Health CareMental Health ServicesMental Health TreatmentMentally Ill OffendersSuicides |
Author: John Howard Association of Illinois Title: Moving Beyond Transition: Ten Findings and Recommendations on the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice Summary: Our findings include the following: In a 2012 report, JHA found chronically low mental health staffing levels at IYC-Kewanee, the only IDJJ facility designated to provide intensive mental health treatment. Since JHA's 2012 report was published, IDJJ has increased Kewanee's mental health staffing levels and moved youth with lower security risks and less intensive treatment needs to a newly-created mental health special treatment cottage at IYC-St. Charles. While IDJJ has increased its collection of data on programs and operations, much of this data is still not readily available to stakeholders and public. This kind of transparency is essential to enable stakeholders and the public to independently evaluate IDJJ's performance, advocate for necessary improvements, and build broad support for the agency and its mission. In 2012, IDJJ strengthened oversight of its operations by requiring greater accountability from independent service providers, and also working with outside evaluators to assess program outcomes. Notwithstanding ongoing challenges, IDJJ has made progress in the area of juvenile parole and reentry. IDJJ now has the authority to approve alternative host site placements for youth awaiting release on parole, and the agency continues to expand its Aftercare Program to enhance treatment, services, and reentry outcomes for youth on parole. While JHA continues to receive reports from youth of confinement being misused and overused at some facilities, we were encouraged by evidence of staff using communication and de-escalation techniques in lieu of solitary confinement to punish disruptive youth. Based on a growing body of research and a well established body of law and best practices, JHA advocates that IDJJ allow confinement to be used only for security purposes when youth are physically out of control and/or present an immediate threat to physical safety-and only for the limited duration that youth pose an imminent threat of harm. Consistent with juvenile justice systems nationwide, JHA found evidence that minority youth of color in IDJJ are much less likely to be identified as having mental health needs and provided with services than white youth in the system. Details: Chicago: The Society, 2013. 32p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 18, 2017 at: http://www.thejha.org/sites/default/files/Moving%20Beyond%20Transition.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United States URL: http://www.thejha.org/sites/default/files/Moving%20Beyond%20Transition.pdf Shelf Number: 131364 Keywords: Juvenile CorrectionsJuvenile Justice ReformJuvenile Justice SystemsJuvenile OffendersMental Health Services |
Author: University of Texas School of Law. Human Rights Clinic Title: Designed to Break You: Human Rights Violations on Texas' Death Row Summary: The State of Texas stands today as one of the most extensive utilizers of the death penalty worldwide. Consequently, inmate living conditions on Texas' death row are ripe for review. This report demonstrates that the mandatory conditions implemented for death row inmates by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) are harsh and inhumane. Particular conditions of relevance include mandatory solitary confinement, a total ban on contact visits with both attorneys and friends and family, substandard physical and psychological health care, and a lack of access to sufficient religious services. Investigation into these conditions reveals that current TDCJ policy violates international human rights norms and standards for confinement. Conditions on death row at TDCJ's Polunsky Unit must be remedied posthaste. In 1999, Texas reintroduced the practice of mandatory solitary confinement for every individual convicted of capital murder. Solitary confinement involves total segregation of individuals who are confined to their cells for twenty-two to twenty-four hours per day, with a complete prohibition on recreating or eating with other inmates. An average cell is no bigger than 8 feet by 12 feet, and contains only a sink, a toilet, and a thirty-inch-wide steel bunk with a thin plastic mattress. Inmates are rarely provided with adequate blankets and often suffer from ongoing physical pain due to the mattress provided. The majority of cells include a small window, but inmates are only able to see out by rolling up their mattress and standing on it. This fact, paired with the lack of adequate outdoor recreation time, means that daily exposure to natural light is rare. Every individual on Texas' death row thus spends approximately 23 hours a day in complete isolation for the entire duration of their sentence, which, on average, lasts more than a decade. This prolonged solitary confinement has overwhelmingly negative effects on inmates' mental health, exacerbating existing mental health conditions and causing many prisoners to develop mental illness for the first time. In addition to the detrimental effects of isolation, the practice of setting multiple execution dates means that many prisoners are subjected to the psychological stress of preparing to die several times during their sentence. Inmates on death row experience severe barriers to accessing medical care, in part due to being housed in solitary confinement and being less able to effectively self-advocate. Inmates are not offered regular physical or psychological check-ups, and must rely on the guards to communicate and facilitate any healthcare appointments. Such requests for care are, at best, responded to within a few days, but can go several weeks without a response and are often ignored or forgotten about. In terms of psychological healthcare - an issue of great importance given that a large majority of inmates on death row suffer from some form of psychological illness - only inmates who were already taking psychiatric medication are able to meet regularly with psychiatrists. Of those inmates who are eventually given access to psychological care, they are generally only prescribed some form of psychiatric medication, thus exacerbating the unmet need for some form of counseling or non-pharmaceutical therapy. Inmates with mental illness who do not necessarily want or need prescription drugs are essentially provided with only two options: take unwanted medication, or forgo psychological healthcare entirely. Another major issue of concern is the lack of access to religious services on death row. The extent to which inmates are able to access religious text is limited, as Christian bibles are the only material available from the prison chaplain. Although Christian inmates can request such materials, they are rarely given access to ministers until the holiday season. For inmates of different faiths, such as Islam or Judaism, the situation is more difficult as they must solely rely on outside sources for their religious materials. They are provided with no access to practice their chosen faith, and are often met with contempt when seeking such access. This has created a harsh environment for inmates who do not adhere to Christianity, and has enabled a discriminatory system on the basis of religion on Texas' death row. This report, prepared by the Human Rights Clinic at the University of Texas School of Law, concludes that current conditions in TDCJ facilities constitute a violation of Texas's duty to guarantee the rights to health, life, physical integrity, and dignity of detainees, as well as its duty to prevent cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment of its inmates. These duties are recognized by human rights instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the American Declaration on the Rights and Duties of Man. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and other human rights bodies have repeatedly issued opinions decrying the inhumane conditions present at the Polunsky Unit. Particularly, international human rights bodies have considered that the prolonged and mandatory use of solitary confinement is "disproportionate, illegitimate, and unnecessary." Details: Austin: The Clinic, 2017. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 5, 2017. at: https://law.utexas.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2017/04/2017-HRC-DesignedToBreakYou-Report.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://law.utexas.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2017/04/2017-HRC-DesignedToBreakYou-Report.pdf Shelf Number: 145930 Keywords: Capital Punishment Death Penalty Death Row Human Rights Abuses Inmates Mental Health ServicesSolitary Confinement |
Author: Sedlak, Andrea J. Title: Survey of Youth in Residential Placement: Conditions of Confinement Summary: This report, the third in the series, presents findings from the Survey of Youth in Residential Placement (SYRP) about the conditions of confinement for youth in a range of different facilities and progams. Results focus on the structural and operational characteristics of these environments and indicate how youth offenders are distributed across various programs and facilities of different size and complexity. These findings provide answers to a number of questions about the characteristics and experiences of youth in placement, including: - How are youth grouped in living units and programs? - Which youth are placed together? - What activities are available in each facility? - How accessible are social, emotional, and legal supports? - What is the quality of the youth-staff relationships? - How clear are the facility's rules? - How clear is the facility's commitment to justice and due process? - What methods of control and discipline do staff use? The data derive from interviews with a nationally representative sample of 7,073 youth in 2003, using audio-computer-assisted-self-interview (ACASI) methodology. Facility administrators provided additional information about placement contexts, either while planning the data collection or in verifying or updating answers on their latest Juvenile Residential Facility Census (JRFC) survey. The SYRP sample was drawn from the full population of state and local facilities identified by the Census of Juveniles in Residential Placement and Juvenile Residential Facility Census surveys. SYRP youth resided in a nationally representative selection of 205 eligible, responsive facilities listed on the census as of 2002. These included detention and corrections facilities; community-based facilities such as shelters, group homes, and independent living programs; and camp programs, such as boot camps and forestry camps. The SYRP survey team interviewed the youth between the beginning of March and mid-June 2003. All SYRP findings use the youth as the unit of measurement. Each participant is weighted to reflect the number of youth he or she represents in the national population of youth in placement. These weights allow the sample youth (n=7,073) to provide estimates about the full placement population (estimated at more than 100,000 youth, on a given day in 2003). All SYRP reports present findings in terms of estimated numbers (rounded to the nearest multiple of 10) and percentages (rounded to the nearest whole percent) in the national population of youth in residential placement. Thus, this report describes how the population of youth in placement is distributed across different placement settings. Details: Rockville, MD: Westat, 2017. 71p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 13, 2017 at: https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/grants/250754.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/grants/250754.pdf Shelf Number: 146073 Keywords: Juvenile DetentionJuvenile InmatesJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesResidential Treatment CentersSubstance Abuse |
Author: Helfgott, Jacqueline B. Title: A Descriptive Evaluation of the Seattle Police Department's Crisis Intervention Team-Mental Health Partnership Pilot Project Summary: n October 2010 the Seattle Police Department (SPD) launched a 24-month Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)/Mental Health Professional (MHP) pilot program with funding from a 2009 Federal Justice Assistance Grant to establish a Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT) comprised of members of the CIT and licensed mental health professionals (MHPs) trained in crisis assessment, intervention, and resource referral. The Seattle Police Department's CIT was implemented in 1998 to improve police response in dealing with mentally ill individuals. CIT is operated by a sergeant and two officers assigned full-time to crisis intervention who spend their time following up on cases, working with mentally ill individuals to help them stay connected with social service agencies, and serving as a liaison between family members and the Seattle Mental Health Court. Now a nationally recognized program, the SPD CIT has provided 40-hour crisis intervention training for nearly 365 of the department's 1,296 officers, 256 0f whom are assigned to patrol (J. Fountain, Personal Communication, July 31, 2012). The purpose of the addition of the MHP and the development of the CIRT is to provide assistance to field officers when they encounter a person who may be experiencing a crisis resulting from mental illness or chemical dependency. The goal of the pilot program is to improve police response in situations involving mentally ill and chemically dependent individuals through specialized mental health provider response in the field. This response includes assessment and referral of individuals to community based resources which may better meet their housing, mental health, substance abuse and other needs, and avoiding the use of jail or hospital emergency rooms when appropriate. The MHPs take direction from the CIT sergeant and work in collaboration with a sworn officer/partner to exercise their professional discretion in day-to-day contacts with street-level mental health and chemical dependency problems. The goal of the CIRT pilot evaluation is to describe the value added by the MHP in police encounters with persons with mental illness (PwMI), as well as the effectiveness of the CIRT program with regard to the role and function of the MHP. To date, very few jurisdictions have implemented similar programs partnering law enforcement with mental health providers. The current state of knowledge about crisis intervention teams in law enforcement and partnerships with mental health professionals is primarily anecdotal in nature. This evaluation is incident-based and descriptive in nature. Results provide valuable information to assist the SPD in determining the benefits of the CIRT program and in making resource decisions about law enforcement/mental health partnerships. Details: Seattle, WA: Seattle University, .Criminal Justice Department, 2012. 74p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 20, 2017 at: https://www.seattleu.edu/media/college-of-arts-and-sciences/departments/criminaljustice/documents/HELFGOTT-HICKMAN_CIRT_FINALREPORT.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United States URL: https://www.seattleu.edu/media/college-of-arts-and-sciences/departments/criminaljustice/documents/HELFGOTT-HICKMAN_CIRT_FINALREPORT.pdf Shelf Number: 146300 Keywords: Crisis Intervention Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders Mentally Ill Persons Police Education and Training Police Services for the Mentally Ill |
Author: Atella, Julie Title: Summary of Findings from DOCCR Programs: 2015 Evaluation Report Summary: Many justice-involved youth have unmet mental health needs. In 2014, staff from Hennepin County's Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCCR) determined a need to collect information from a handful of the programs that serve justice-involved youth with mental health needs. The central question they wanted answered is how can DOCCR programs better capture information about the mental health needs of their clients in a manner that is culturally aware? DOCCR requested an exploratory examination of how some of their community-based programs address and track clients' mental health needs. This analysis does not examine each program in the same manner. The following five funded programs were included in the evaluation: - Brief Intervention: Humble Beginning's Brief Intervention program provides four sessions of one-on-one therapy for youth with mild-to-moderate substance use. This program uses motivational interviewing to raise awareness of the youths' problems, offering a number of strategies for accomplishing the targeted goals, and placing responsibility for change with the youth. Brief Intervention is designed to diminish factors contributing to drug use and promote factors that protect against relapse. - Girls Circle H.E.A.R.T.: The YMCA runs Girls Circle H.E.A.R.T., a gender-responsive curriculum, for Hennepin County-involved adolescent girls. It includes a 16 week curriculum that provides recreational, individual and group learning experiences; community support through individual and family support; crisis intervention, transportation, and trauma-informed resources and referrals; as well as educational support through coordinating support services, monitoring attendance and attending school meetings. - Hold Your Horses: Cairns Psychological Services provides gender-responsive equine-assisted group psychotherapy through their Hold Your Horses program. This equine therapy treatment model focuses on improvement of adaptive functioning skills for youth who have experienced or are at high risk of experiencing sexual exploitation, abuse or trauma. Hold Your Horses assists in the development of these skills by helping youth to focus on mindfulness, self-regulation, self-soothing and self-awareness. Group takes place for two hours, one time per week, for 10 consecutive weeks. - The Family Partnership: The Family Partnership provides Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) to youth from either juvenile probation and/or human services in Hennepin County. MST is an intensive home-based model designed for youth ages 12 to 17 currently living at home but who are at risk for out-of-home placement. It focuses on collaboration with caregivers, allowing the caregivers to know exactly what is happening and why. - Runaway Intervention Program (RIP): Midwest Children's Resource Center's RIP program is an advanced practice nurse-led initiative to help severely sexually assaulted or exploited girls reconnect to family, school and health care resources. The two components of the program are 1) an initial complex health and abuse assessment at the hospital-based Child Advocacy Center and 2) 12 months of ongoing care, including health assessments, medical care, treatment for post- traumatic stress disorder and depression, and confidential reproductive health care. With the exception of Brief Intervention, all programs serve youth from both DOCCR and the Human Services and Public Health Department (HSPD). Details: St. Paul, MN: Wilder Research, 2016. 26p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 28, 2017 at: http://www.hccmhc.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DOCCR-Programs-2015.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: http://www.hccmhc.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/DOCCR-Programs-2015.pdf Shelf Number: 146446 Keywords: Community-Based ProgramsJuvenile OffendersMental Health ServicesMental IllnessTreatment Programs |
Author: New York (City). Mayor's Task Force on Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Title: First Status Report Summary: December of 2014, the de Blasio administration released the action plan developed by the Mayor's Task Force on Behavioral Health and the Criminal Justice System. The action plan outlines a comprehensive blueprint to continue to drive down crime while also reducing the number of people with behavioral health issues who cycle through the criminal justice system. The recommendations of the Task Force focus on ensuring that, when appropriate, individuals with behavioral health disorders: - do not enter the criminal justice system in the first place; - if they do enter, that they are treated outside of a jail setting; - if they are in jail, that they receive treatment that is therapeutic rather than punitive in approach; and - upon release, they are connected to effective services. Over the last twenty years, New York City has experienced the sharpest drop in crime anywhere in the nation. As crime has fallen so has the City's jail population - on the last day of 2014, there were fewer than 10,000 individuals detained at Rikers for the first time since 1984. New York City has one of the lowest jail detention rates of any city in the country: 1.15 per every 1,000 residents. Despite our success in reducing the overall jail population, the number of people with behavioral health issues has stayed largely constant, with individuals with behavioral health issues comprising a bigger and bigger percentage of the total number incarcerated. While in FY 2010, people with mental illness were only 29% of the NYC jail population, today they represent 38% of the overall jail population; approximately 7% of the jail population is made up of individuals with serious mental illness, and approximately 46% of inmates in the NYC jail system report that they are active substance users, although we believe the actual prevalence of substance use to be much higher. Many justice-involved individuals with behavioral health needs cycle through the system over and over again, often for low-level offenses. For example, approximately 400 individuals have been admitted to jail more than 18 times in the last five years. This same group accounted for more than 10,000 jail admissions and a collective 300,000 days in jail. ii While we have been demonstrably successful in reducing crime and incarceration in many areas, the issue of how to address the needs of people with behavioral health issues remains a stubborn question that the Task Force set out to solve. The Task Force worked to ensure that we establish the systems to address appropriately the risk and needs this population presents. Over 100 days, the Task Force developed 24 interlocking public health and public safety strategies that address each point in the criminal justice system and the overlap among those points. Recognizing the interdependent and intersecting nature of the behavioral health and criminal justice systems, the Task Force identified five major points of contact: on the street, from arrest through disposition, inside jail, during release and re-entry, and back in the community. The comprehensive strategy developed by the Task Force is backed by evidence and informed by widespread expertise. These are complicated issues, and while some of the elements of this action plan represent immediate steps, they are the first steps of a broader strategy that is long-term and ongoing. It will ensure that we continue to drive New York City's crime rate even lower by reliably assessing who poses a public safety risk and ensuring that we appropriately address - not just at arrest, but well before and well after - the behavioral health issues that have led many into contact with the criminal justice system. Details: New York: The Task Force, 2014. 20p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 29, 2017 at: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/criminaljustice/downloads/pdfs/BHTF_StatusReport.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/criminaljustice/downloads/pdfs/BHTF_StatusReport.pdf Shelf Number: 146596 Keywords: Jail InmatesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill Persons |
Author: Great Britain. National Audit Office Title: Mental health in prisons Summary: Government does not know how many people in prison have a mental illness, how much it is spending on mental health in prisons or whether it is achieving its objectives. It is therefore hard to see how Government can be achieving value for money in its efforts to improve the mental health and well being of prisoners. In 2016 there were 40,161 incidents of self-harm in prisons and 120 self-inflicted deaths. Government does not know how many people in prison have a mental illness, how much it is spending on mental health in prisons or whether it is achieving its objectives. It is therefore hard to see how Government can be achieving value for money in its efforts to improve the mental health and well being of prisoners, according to a report by the National Audit Office. Her Majesty's Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS), NHS England and Public Health England have set ambitious objectives for providing mental health services but do not collect enough or good enough data to understand whether they are meeting them. Rates of self-inflicted deaths and self-harm in prison have risen significantly in the last five years, suggesting that mental health and well-being in prison has declined. Self-harm rose by 73% between 2012 and 2016. In 2016 there were 40,161 incidents of self-harm in prisons, the equivalent of one incident for every two prisoners. While in 2016 there were 120 self-inflicted deaths in prison, almost twice the number in 2012, and the highest year on record. Government needs to address the rising rates of suicide and self harm in prisons as a matter of urgency. In 2016, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman found that 70% of prisoners who had committed suicide between 2012 and 2014 had mental health needs. The Ministry of Justice and its partners have undertaken work to identify interventions to reduce suicide and self-harm in prisons, though these have not yet been implemented. While NHS England uses health needs assessments to understand need these are often based on what was provided in previous years, and do not take account of unmet need. The NAO estimate that the total spend on healthcare in adult prisons, in 2016-17 was around $400 million. HMPPS does not monitor the quality of healthcare it pays for in the six privately-managed prisons it oversees. The prison system is under considerable pressure, making it more difficult to manage prisoners' mental well-being, though government has set out an ambitious reform programme to address this. NOMS' (National Offender Management Service) funding reduced by 13% between 2009-10 and 2016-17, and staff numbers in public prisons reduced by 30% over the same period. When prisons are short-staffed, governors may run restricted regimes where prisoners spend more of the day in their cells, making it more challenging for prisoners to access mental health services. Staffing pressures can make it difficult for prison officers to detect changes in a prisoner's mental health and officers have not received regular training to understand mental health conditions, though the Ministry plans to provide more training in future. In addition, NOMS did not always give NHS England enough notice when it has made changes to the prison estate. For example at Downview Prison NHS England was in the process of commissioning health services for a male prison, when NOMS decide to open it as a female prison instead. When NAO visited six months after it opened, the prison was still in the process of developing a healthcare service that could meet the needs of the female population. The challenges of delivering healthcare are compounded by the ageing prison estate, over a quarter of which was built before 1900 and without modern healthcare in mind. The Ministry has a programme to replace the ageing estate with modern buildings. While clinical care is broadly judged to be good, there are weaknesses in the system for identifying prisoners who need mental health services. Prisoners are screened when they arrive in prison, but this does not always identify mental health problems and staff do not have access to GP records, which means they do not always know if a prisoner has been diagnosed with a mental illness. NHS England is in the process of linking prison health records to GP records to address this. Mentally ill prisoners should wait no more than 14 days to be admitted to a secure hospital, but only 34% of prisoners were transferred within 14 days in 2016-17 while 7% (76) waited for more than 140 days. The process for transferring prisoners is complex and delays can have a negative impact on prisoners' mental health and they may be kept in unsuitable conditions such as segregation units Details: London: NAO, 2017. 54p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed july 29, 2017 at: https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Mental-health-in-prisons.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Mental-health-in-prisons.pdf Shelf Number: 146617 Keywords: Health ServicesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill PrisonersPrison Suicide |
Author: Jones, Adele D. Title: Children of Prisoners: Intervention and mitigations to strengthen mental health Summary: Worldwide, unprecedented numbers of people are being imprisoned and in many countries incarceration is on the increase (Walmsley, 2009); indeed 'more parents than ever are behind bars' (Murray et al., 2012) and each year, an estimated 800,000 children within the newly-expanded European Union are separated from an incarcerated parent. Despite this, the psychosocial impact on children is little known and rarely considered in sentencing even though the evidence to date suggests that children whose parents are imprisoned are exposed to triple jeopardy through break-up of the family, financial hardship, stigma and secrecy, leading to adverse social and educational repercussions. The rationale for the study of the impact of parental imprisonment is underscored by the findings of a recent meta-analysis of studies of children of prisoners (Murray et al. 2012). This systematic review synthesized empirical evidence on the associations between parental incarceration and children's later behavioural, educational and health outcomes from 40 studies involving a total of over 7,000 children of prisoners. Details: Huddersfield, UK: University of Huddersfield, 2013. 336p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 21, 2017 at: http://childrenofprisoners.eu/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/COPINGFinal.pdf Year: 2013 Country: Europe URL: Shelf Number: 146799 Keywords: Children of Prisoners Families of Inmates Mental Health Services |
Author: Murdock, Rebecca Title: Study of the Intersection of Mental Health and Jails: Select Practices from Across the State Summary: The General Assembly created the North Carolina Sentencing and Policy Advisory Commission ("the Commission") in 1990, and charged the Commission with the long standing duty of identifying critical problems in the criminal justice and corrections systems and recommending strategies for addressing those problems. In 2014, the Commission undertook a study of the mentally ill (MI) population in local jails, with the goal of finding strategies that could better serve this population and potentially improve recidivism outcomes. This publication serves as a vehicle to share information collected during that study; it is intended to provide stakeholders with the opportunity to learn about practices implemented in other jurisdictions or by other entities across the state and consider different methods that could be incorporated into or augment their existing practices. The information included in this publication is the result of field research to select counties in North Carolina, discussed below. This publication would not have been possible without the overwhelming consideration and attention given to this project by those interviewed, for which the Commission and its staff offer their thanks. This publication offers background on the creation and work of the Commission's Research and Policy Study Group, jails and the mental health system in North Carolina, and a description of its site visit project that produced the majority of the information offered here. Observations from the site visit project are then detailed, as described by area stakeholders. Observations are organized by common topics - Subsection A contains methods used to identify the MI population within the jails; Subsection B contains descriptions of how a dedicated point of contact for the MI population within the jail can be utilized; Subsection C contains methods used to promote the continuity of care for the MI population as they exit the jail. Each subsection concludes with questions for practitioners and jurisdictions to consider in the context of their own approaches to managing mentally ill inmates. Details: Raleigh, NC: North Carolina Sentencing and Policy Advisory Commission, 2016. 62p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 28, 2017 at: http://www.nccourts.org/Courts/CRS/Councils/spac/Documents/Study_of_the_Intersection_of_Mental_Health_and_Jails.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: http://www.nccourts.org/Courts/CRS/Councils/spac/Documents/Study_of_the_Intersection_of_Mental_Health_and_Jails.pdf Shelf Number: 146918 Keywords: Jails Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Inmates Mentally Ill Persons Mentally Ill Prisoners |
Author: Kubiak, Sheryl Title: Evaluation of the Wayne County Mental Health Court. Year 5: Long‐term Outcomes and Cost Savings Wayne County, Michigan Summary: A Wayne County MHC was initially funded in December 2008 as a pilot program in a joint collaboration between the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO), Michigan Department of Community Health, and Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority (DWMHA). Evaluations conducted during the first three years of operation (2009-2011) focused on development, implementation, processes, and assessment of preliminary outcomes, as well as an initial cost analysis of the program. The fourth year of operation (2012) corresponded to the end of the pilot phase and assessment of the eight pilot MHCs as part of a statewide outcome evaluation. The fifth year of operation (2013) provided the opportunity to assess the long‐term outcomes and cost savings of the program as individuals involved with the program in 2009 - 2011 have been discharged or rejected from the program for one year or more. Between the inception of the MHC in April of 2009 and September 2013, nearly 300 individuals were screened for participation in the program. Of those screened, 199 individuals were admitted to and 91 were rejected from the MHC. At the time of this report, 50 individuals were actively engaged in the program and 149 were discharged. Of those discharged, 105 were discharged for more than one year, 40 successfully and 65 unsuccessfully. Those rejected from the MHC present an opportunity to compare outcomes and costs of MHC participants (Treatment Group) to similar individuals who did not participate in the MHC (Comparison Group). Of the 91 individuals rejected from MHC, 33 were excluded from analysis because the reason for rejection suggested they were dissimilar from the Treatment Group. Of the remaining 58, 45 individuals were rejected from MHC for more than one year. As a result, three groups were used to illustrate the long‐term outcomes and cost analysis: Successful (N=40), Unsuccessful (N=65), and Rejected (N=45). All three groups had similar characteristics at admission to/rejection from the MHC. The average age across all three groups was 37 years old and 50%-54% of each group was of minority status. There were no significant differences by mental health diagnosis, though co‐occurring substance use disorders were more common for the Treatment Group (86%-88%) than the Comparison Group (74%). The proportion of females was higher in the Treatment Groups (31%-33%) compared to the Comparison Group (16%). There were differences in terms of the assessed risk: the proportion of those in the Successful Group assessed as "high risk" overall and for violence was significantly lower than others. Despite similarities across the groups at admission/rejection, the Successful Group had better long‐term criminal justice and treatment outcomes. In terms of recidivism, only 18% of the Successful Group experienced any incarceration in the post‐MHC period compared to 69% (Unsuccessful) and 88% (Rejected), incurring just 10 days of incarceration compared to 153 (Unsuccessful) and 98 days (Rejected). Similarly, the Successful Group demonstrated optimal response in terms of mental health treatment: the average number of low‐level services (e.g. group/individual sessions, med reviews) increased post‐MHC, indicating sustained engagement, while high‐level services (e.g. hospitalization, crisis residential) decreased.Reduced criminal justice involvement and high‐level treatment need, translated to cost savings for members of the Treatment Group. Applying unit costs to standard transactions incurred by members of the Treatment and Comparison Groups in the post‐MHC period, a cost savings of $22,865 per successful participant and $7,741 per unsuccessful participant as compared to those rejected by the MHC. The driving factor in the cost savings between the groups are victimization costs. Extrapolating these costs across all participants of the MHC, yields a total savings of $1,417,740 for those discharged or rejected from the MHC for more than one year to date. Details: East Lansing, MI: Michigan State University, 2014. 31p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 2, 2017 at: https://socialwork.msu.edu/sites/default/files/Research/docs/WayneMHCCourt.Final.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United States URL: https://socialwork.msu.edu/sites/default/files/Research/docs/WayneMHCCourt.Final.pdf Shelf Number: 147021 Keywords: Alternatives to IncarcerationCost-Benefit AnalysisMental Health CourtsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersProblem-Solving Courts |
Author: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, Evaluation and Inspections Division Title: Review of the Federal Bureau of Prisons' Use of Restrictive Housing for Inmates with Mental Illness Summary: Introduction The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for confining offenders in environments that are safe, humane, cost-efficient, and appropriately secure. To do so, the BOP utilizes various forms of Restrictive Housing Unit (RHU) to confine certain inmates, including those with mental illness. However, according to recent research and reports, as well as the BOP's own policy, confinement in RHUs, even for relatively short periods of time, can adversely affect inmates' mental health and can be particularly harmful for inmates with mental illness. As of June 2016, of the 148,227 sentenced inmates in the BOP's 122 institutions, 9,749 inmates (7 percent) were housed in its three largest forms of RHU: Special Housing Units (SHU) in 111 institutions; 2 Special Management Units (SMU) at the U.S. Penitentiaries (USP) in Lewisburg and Allenwood, Pennsylvania; and the USP Administrative Maximum Security Facility (ADX) in Florence, Colorado. The Office of the Inspector General conducted this review to examine the BOP's use of RHUs for inmates with mental illness, including trends in the use of restrictive housing and the screening, treatment, and monitoring of inmates with mental illness who are housed in RHUs. We found significant issues with the adequacy of the BOP's policies and its implementation efforts in this critical area. Results in Brief BOP Policies Do Not Adequately Address the Confinement of Inmates with Mental Illness in RHUs, and the BOP Does Not Sufficiently Track or Monitor Such Inmates BOP guidance and policies do not clearly define "restrictive housing" or "extended placement." Although the BOP states that it does not practice solitary confinement, or even recognize the term, we found inmates, including those with mental illness, who were housed in single-cell confinement for long periods of time, isolated from other inmates and with limited human contact. For example, at the ADX, we observed an RHU that held two inmates, each in their own cell, isolated from other inmates. The inmates did not engage in recreation with each other or with other inmates and were confined to their cells for over 22 hours a day. Also, in five SHUs, we observed single-celled inmates, many with serious mental illness. One inmate, who we were told was denied ADX placement for mental health reasons, had been single-celled for about 4 years. Although the BOP generally imposes a minimum amount of time that inmates must spend in RHUs, it does not limit the maximum amount of time and does not monitor inmates' cumulative time in RHUs. The BOP also does not track its housing of inmates in single-cell RHU confinement, nor does it account for their confinement in all RHUs throughout BOP institutions. As a result, inmates, including those with mental illness, may spend years and even decades in RHUs. For example, we learned of an inmate with serious mental illness who spent about 19 years at the ADX before being transferred to a secure residential mental health treatment program. In addition, our sample of inmates with mental illness showed that they had been placed in the ADX for an average of about 69 months. Similarly, we found that between fiscal years (FY) 2008 and 2015, inmates with mental illness averaged about 896 consecutive days, or about 29 months, in the SMU. We further found that inmates with mental illness spend disproportionately longer periods of time in RHUs than their peers. Equally concerning, our review showed that 13 percent of the inmates with mental illness in our sample were released by the BOP directly into the community after spending nearly 29 months in the SMU prior to their release. By contrast, officials in six of the eight state departments of corrections told us that they limit the length of time inmates with mental illness can be placed in restrictive housing. In 2015, three states (Massachusetts, Mississippi, and New York) had at least a 30-day limit, while three other states (Colorado, Maine, and Pennsylvania) no longer placed inmates with serious mental illness in RHUs at all. Mental Health Staff Do Not Always Document Inmates' Mental Disorders, Leaving the BOP Unable to Accurately Determine the Number of Inmates with Mental Illness and Ensure that It Is Providing Appropriate Care to Them BOP data showed that, as of 2015, only 3 percent of the BOP's sentenced inmate population was being treated regularly for mental illness. Yet, the BOP's FY 2016 Performance Budget Congressional Submission cited an internal BOP study, which suggested that approximately 19 percent of federal inmates had a history of mental illness. Moreover, a 2006 Bureau of Justice Statistics report concluded that 45 percent of federal inmates had symptoms or a recent history of mental illness. We found that the BOP cannot accurately determine the number of inmates who have mental illness because institution staff do not always document mental disorders. The BOP's FY 2014 data estimates that approximately 12 percent of inmates have a history of mental illness; however, in 2015, the BOP's Chief Psychiatrist estimated, based on discussions with institutions' Psychology Services staffs, that approximately 40 percent of inmates have mental illness, excluding inmates with only personality disorder diagnoses. Similarly, one institution's Deputy Chief Psychologist estimated that 50 percent of that institution's inmates may have Antisocial Personality Disorder; nevertheless, we found that this disorder was documented for only about 3.3 percent of the BOP's total inmate population. Because mental health staffs do not always document inmates' mental disorders, the BOP is unable to ensure that it is providing appropriate care to them. Since the BOP Adopted Its New Mental Health Policy, BOP Data Shows a 30 Percent Reduction in Inmates Who Receive Regular Mental Health Treatment The BOP adopted a new mental health policy in 2014, increasing the standards of care for inmates with mental illness. However, since the policy was issued, the total number of inmates who receive regular mental health treatment decreased by approximately 30 percent, including 56 percent for inmates in SMUs, and about 20 percent overall for inmates in RHUs during the scope of our review. Based on our review, it appears that mental health staff may have reduced the number of inmates, including those in RHUs, who must receive regular mental health treatment because they did not have the necessary staffing resources to meet the policy's increased treatment standards. Indeed, we found that, as of October 2015, the BOP had filled only 57 percent of its authorized full-time Psychiatrist positions nationwide and that it had significant staffing issues with regard to Psychologist positions as well. This treatment trend was particularly pronounced among SMU inmates at USP Lewisburg, which confined over 1,100 SMU inmates as of June 2016. Based on our sample of SMU inmates, we found that, prior to the new policy, the number of inmates (16) whose mental health care level was increased equaled the number of inmates (16) whose care level was decreased. In contrast, after the new policy was adopted, all 27 inmates whose care level changed had a decrease and therefore ostensibly required less treatment. By May 2015, only about 2.5 percent of SMU inmates at USP Lewisburg were categorized as requiring regular treatment, compared to about 11 percent of ADX inmates and 7 percent of SHU inmates nationwide, which we believe raises treatment concerns for inmates in USP Lewisburg's SMU. While the BOP Has Taken Recent Steps to Mitigate Mental Health Concerns for Inmates in RHUs, Additional Actions Can Be Taken The BOP has taken a number of steps to mitigate the mental health concerns for inmates in RHUs. These efforts include diverting inmates with serious mental illness from placement in traditional RHUs (i.e., SHUs, the SMUs, and the ADX) and into alternative programs such as secure residential mental health treatment programs. While these are positive BOP initiatives, limited inmate capacities, slow inmate progression through the programs, high staffing needs, and a lack of formal performance metrics with which to measure the effectiveness of these programs limit their utility and the BOP's ability to expand their use to other institutions. Details: Washington, DC: Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice, 2017. 103p. Source: Internet Resource: Evaluation and Inspections Division 17-05 : Accessed September 20, 2017 at: https://oig.justice.gov/reports/2017/e1705.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://oig.justice.gov/reports/2017/e1705.pdf Shelf Number: 147413 Keywords: Federal Bureau of PrisonsIsolationMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill PrisonersRestrictive HousingSolitary Confinement |
Author: Heslop, Lisa Title: Trends in Police Contact with Persons with Mental Illness Summary: Since the 1960s, one worrying offshoot of de‐institutionalization of mental health services has been a marked increase in contact between persons with mental illness (PMI) and the criminal justice system. The criminalization of PMI is well documented. Police contact with PMI is much higher than the prevalence of mental illness in the population; police use informal disposition less frequently with PMI; PMI have a higher arrest rate than the general population and PMI are arrested and jailed for relatively minor offences at a higher rate than their non‐mentally ill counter-parts. When the process of de‐institutionalization was announced in 1999, the London Police Service collaborated with researchers from the University of Western Ontario, the London Health Sciences Centre, and key community‐based service providers to track and explore unintended consequences of de‐institutionalization from the perspective of contact between the police and PMI. This project received initial funding from the Donner Foundation and later formed the basis for the Consortium of Applied Research and Evaluation in Mental Health (CAREMH), funded by the Change Foundation in 2003. The premise of this project was that a lack of community-based services for people with mental illness places an increased demand upon police whose powers are based within two legal principles: 1. the police power function - to ensure the safety and welfare of the public, and 2. parens patriae, which involves protection of disabled citizens. Application of these principles is not intended to be therapeutic and therein lies the inherent problem of increased contact between the police and persons with mental illness Details: London, Ontario: [London Police Service, 2013. 7p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 7, 2017 at: http://capg.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Trends-in-Police-Contact-with-Persons-with-Mental-Illness-Report-for-LPSB-2013.pdf Year: 2013 Country: Canada URL: http://capg.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Trends-in-Police-Contact-with-Persons-with-Mental-Illness-Report-for-LPSB-2013.pdf Shelf Number: 147604 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill PersonsPolice Services for the Mentally Ill |
Author: Torrey, E. Fuller Title: Treat or Repeat: A State Survey of Serious Mental Illness, Major Crimes and Community Treatment Summary: Individuals with serious mental illness who have committed major crimes represent 2% of the estimated 8.2 million individuals with a severe psychiatric disease in the United States. Although this is a small segment of the total population, research shows that, without treatment, these individuals are at heightened risk of being re-arrested after their release from jail or prison or discharge from a forensic hospital. Because the timely and effective treatment of individuals with the most severe mental illness is the focus of its mission, the Treatment Advocacy Center conducted a survey of selected state systems and structures available to individuals with serious mental illness who have committed major crimes. The states were graded from A to F based on the availability and comprehensiveness of these practices. The result, Treat or Repeat: A State Survey of Serious Mental illness, Major Crimes and Community Treatment, finds this population is often overlooked in programming and funding decisions. The report recommends prioritizing evidence-based treatment to reduce re-arrest of individuals with serious mental illness who have a history of violence. Top Takeaway Evidence-based programs for individuals with serious mental illness who have committed major crimes allow individuals to succeed in the community following reentry from jail or prison or after discharge from a forensic psychiatric bed by providing complete and intensive treatment. However, no state in the United States utilizes them comprehensively or effectively. Fast Facts No state received an A grade. The majority of states do not provide adequate support in the community for individuals with serious mental illness who have committed major crimes, resulting in higher re-arrest rates and all the attendant human and economic costs of re-incarceration. Evidence-based programs can reduce the risk of re-arrest for individuals with serious mental illness living in the community from an average rate of 40%-60% to only 10% or less. The four states that received the best grades under this study - Hawaii, Maine, Missouri and Oregon - are all models that other states should look to for various aspects of their successful programming. Other states with exemplar programs and practices were also identified. Recommendations Federal, state and local governments must create policies to stop the criminalization of individuals with serious mental illness. Federal, state and local governments must prioritize treatment for individuals with serious mental illness who are involved in the criminal justice system. State and local governments must implement evidence-based treatment programs for individuals with serious mental illness who have committed major crimes. Researchers and government agencies must conduct research and evaluate programs for individuals with serious mental illness who have committed major crimes to inform best-practices. Details: Arlington, VA: Treatment Advocacy Center, 2017. 131p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 3, 2017 at: http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org/storage/documents/treat-or-repeat.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org/storage/documents/treat-or-repeat.pdf Shelf Number: 147987 Keywords: Evidence-Based ProgramsMental HealthMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill PersonsRecidivism |
Author: AbuDagga, Azza Title: Individuals With Serious Mental Illnesses in County Jails: A Survey of Jail Staff's Perspectives Summary: Background - Incarceration has largely replaced hospitalization for thousands of individuals with serious mental illnesses in the U.S., with state prisons and county jails holding as many as 10 times more of these individuals than state psychiatric hospitals. Because individuals with serious mental illnesses are predisposed to committing minor crimes due to their illnesses, many end up being detained in county jails with limited or no mental health treatment until a state hospital bed becomes available for them. Some have even been jailed in the absence of any criminal charges. Purposes - The purpose of our survey was to understand the perspectives of county jail sheriffs, deputies, and other staff with respect to individuals with serious mental illnesses in jails. Specifically, we aimed to address the following objectives: (1) explore jail staffs' experiences with seriously mentally ill inmates; (2) understand the training provided to sheriffs' deputies and other jail staff on effective ways to handle seriously mentally ill inmates; and (3) describe the kind of treatment types and resources available to treat seriously mentally ill inmates in county jails. Methods - We developed our survey instrument (a 22-item questionnaire) with input from subject matter experts and sheriffs. Our questionnaire defined serious mental illnesses as including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), and related conditions, excluding suicidal thoughts or behavior without other symptoms, and alcohol and drug abuse in the absence of serious mental illnesses. Survey responses were obtained from September 23, 2011, through November 28, 2011. To identify our sample, we obtained a 25% random sample of a nationwide list of sheriffs' departments from the National Sheriffs' Association (NSA). Because the NSA had no information regarding which sheriffs' departments operate county jails or detention centers, we invited this entire sample to participate in our online survey. We tried to identify ineligible sheriffs' departments by adding a screening question at the beginning of our survey questionnaire asking respondents to indicate whether they operated county jails or detention centers. We also asked this question during our survey reminder follow-up calls. Results - Our final sample comprised a total of 230 sheriffs' departments from 39 states that operated jail facilities or detention centers (henceforth referred to as jails), resulting in a response rate of 40.1%. The cumulative average daily inmate population across these jails during the year preceding the survey was approximately 68,000. Slightly more than a quarter (27.8%) of these jails were large (averaging 251 or more inmates), 39.6% were medium (averaging 51-250 inmates), and 30.9% were small (averaging 50 inmates or fewer). Jail size was not reported by 1.7% of the respondents. Ninety-three percent of the surveys were completed by experienced law enforcement staff who had been at their current jail for two or more years (60.9% had been there for 11 or more years); the median reported tenure at the current jails across all respondents was 13 years. Aside from their responses to our closed-ended survey questions, these respondents provided numerous valuable lengthy comments in response to open-ended questions about their experiences and the challenges they face as part of their jobs of handling inmates with serious mental illnesses in county jails. We used these comments throughout the report to supplement our findings. Our main findings were as follows: - Overall, the vast majority (95.7%) of the jails reported having some inmates with serious mental illnesses from September 1, 2010, to August 31, 2011. While 49 (21.3%) of all jails reported that 16% or more of their inmate population were seriously mentally ill, more large jails reported having such large proportions of these inmates. Specifically, 31.3% of large, 13.2% of medium and only 4.2% of small jails reported that 16% or more of their inmates were seriously mentally ill. - Per our adopted definition of a large seriously mentally ill inmate population (where seriously mentally ill inmates made up 6% or more of the population), more than a third (40.4%) of the jails reported having a large seriously mentally ill population. In contrast, more than half (58.3%) of the jails reported having a small seriously mentally ill population (i.e., seriously mentally ill inmates made up 5% or fewer of the population). - Three-quarters of the jails reported seeing more or far more numbers of seriously mentally ill inmates, compared to five to 10 years ago. - A third of the jails described the recidivism rate for these inmates as higher or much higher than that of the general inmate population. - Segregation of inmates with serious mental illnesses was reported in 68.7% of the jails, particularly in those with smaller percentages of inmates who were seriously mentally ill. - Most jails reported major problems with the seriously mentally ill inmates, including the necessity of watching them more closely for suicide, their need for additional attention, their disruption of normal jail activities, and their being abusive of, or abused by, other inmates. - Caring for the seriously mentally ill in county jails was particularly challenging for law enforcement staff, who have limited training in dealing with these inmates. Almost half of the jails reported that only 2% or less of the initial training they provide to their staff and sheriff's deputies was allotted to issues specifically dealing with seriously mentally ill inmates, and 60.4% reported that only two hours or less of annual training were allotted to such issues. x Despite the limited training, about a third of the jails reported that 11% or more of their staff and sheriff's deputies' time involved handling seriously mentally ill inmates. - Forty percent of the jails reported that 6% or more of their sheriffs deputies' time involved transporting seriously mentally ill inmates to medical treatment and mental health appointments outside the jail facility. - About half (54.4%) of the jails had implemented housing or staffing changes to accommodate the seriously mentally ill inmates. Specifically, - 33.9% reported sending mentally ill offenders to facilities other than jail; - 27.8% had implemented inmate housing-facility changes (such as increasing the number of beds reserved for people with mental illness); - 27.4% reported hiring full- or part-time non-law-enforcement staff members (including nurses, social workers, and psychiatrists); and - Only 3.5% reported hiring deputies with experience in dealing with seriously mentally ill people. - Resource and funding limitations were cited by numerous jails as major factors constraining their ability to offer mental health treatment and medications for seriously mentally ill inmates. Yet 45.2% of the jails reported offering some sort of mental health treatment for seriously mentally ill inmates inside the jail facilities. o 35.7% of the jails reported providing individual psychiatric care, and 9.6% reported providing group psychotherapy. - Even though medications are central to stabilizing people with serious mental illnesses, only 41.7% of the jails reported offering pharmacy services. - Less than a quarter of these jails offered a support system for mentally ill persons following release. Details: Washington, DC: Public Citizen's Health Research Group; Arlington, VA: Treatment Advocacy Center, 2016. 86p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 4, 2017 at: http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org/storage/documents/jail-survey-report-2016.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org/storage/documents/jail-survey-report-2016.pdf Shelf Number: 148033 Keywords: Jail InmatesJailsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: Stanford Justice Advocacy Project Title: Confronting California's continuing prison crisis: The prevalence and severity of mental illness among California prisoners on the rise Summary: The long-running problem of mental illness in California's justice system appears to be getting worse, according to data recently provided by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and other data presented for the first time in this report. Recent reforms to California's criminal laws have greatly improved the state's justice system: prison and jail crowding have reduced dramatically, sentences are fairer and more proportionate, recidivism rates among those freed early under the reforms are far lower than most released prisoners, and capacity to focus on dangerous crime has increased. Furthermore, since these reforms were enacted, overall crime rates in California have remained on a long-term downward trend. Despite these significant legislative and administrative reforms initiated in part to improve treatment and conditions for people with mental illness in California's justice system, the prevalence and severity of mental illness among California state prisoners are dramatically on the rise. Over 30 percent of California prisoners currently receive treatment for a "serious mental disorder," an increase of 150 percent since 2000. CDCR estimates that the population of prisoners with mental illness will continue to climb, increasing the need for additional psychiatric services in the years to come. Furthermore, there is evidence that CDCR's projections underestimate the current number of prisoners with mental illness. In addition, the severity of psychiatric symptoms of state prisoners is on the rise. The number of prisoners diagnosed with the most serious disorders and transferred to enhanced psychiatric services has increased dramatically over the past 5 years. There is also evidence that criminal defendants in California with mental illness receive longer prison sentences than defendants without mental illness. This disparity exists across all crime categories, from murder to drug possession. Prisoners sentenced to life terms are also more likely to be mentally ill. Finally, despite the substantial criminal justice reforms responsible for the dramatic reduction of California's prison population over the last decade, the population of inmates with mental illness has not decreased.8 Ironically, these reforms were largely initiated on behalf of inmates with mental illness suffering under unconstitutional treatment conditions. This report contains new and updated data about the growing problem of mental illness in California's justice system and describes how prisoners with mental illness do not benefit from some of the most important criminal justice reforms enacted in the state in recent years. Details: Stanford, California: Stanford Justice Advocacy Project, 2017. 10p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 8, 2017 at: https://www-cdn.law.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Stanford-Report-FINAL.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://www-cdn.law.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Stanford-Report-FINAL.pdf Shelf Number: 148075 Keywords: Criminal Justice ReformMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill OffendersMentally Ill Prisoners |
Author: Greene, Jacquelyn Title: Disrupting School-Justice Pathways for Youth Summary: Throughout the 1990s, the rise of zero-tolerance school discipline policies resulted in the widespread adoption of strict and mandatory responses for a large range of misbehavior in school. An unintended consequence of these policies and practices were youth with behavioral health needs put at an increased risk for exclusionary discipline and school-based arrests. Disabled students and those with behavioral health needs have been disproportionately impacted by this shift in policy and practice. Communities and states have recognized the need to address those with behavioral health needs, and have implemented a School Responder Model (SRM), which originally emerged from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation's Models for Change Mental Health/Juvenile Justice Action Network. SRMs are a multidisciplinary approach to responding to youth with behavioral health needs and have been shown to effectively divert those youth away from the juvenile justice system. This Technical Assistance Bulletin provides the steps necessary to implement a SRM and keep kids in school and out of court. Details: Reno, NV: National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, 2017. 32p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 15, 2017 at: https://www.ncjfcj.org/sites/default/files/NCJFCJ_SJP_ResponderModel_Final.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://www.ncjfcj.org/sites/default/files/NCJFCJ_SJP_ResponderModel_Final.pdf Shelf Number: 148193 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesSchool Discipline School-to-Prison Pipeline Zero Tolerance Policies |
Author: Council of State Governments Justice Center Title: Arkansas's Justice Reinvestment Approach: Enhancing Local Mental Health Services for People in the Criminal Justice System Summary: Arkansas's criminal justice system faces serious challenges. As a result of a 21-percent growth in the state's prison population between 2012 and 2015 - the highest increase in the nation during that period - Arkansas's prisons are now at capacity, and county resources are strained due to a backlog of people who are held in jail while awaiting transfer to prison after sentencing. Without action, the state's prison population is projected to increase by nearly 20 percent by 2023. To address these issues, in March 2017, Arkansas policymakers passed Act 423, which contains policies designed to make better use of state and local resources in three key ways. First, it limits the period of incarceration for people sanctioned for low-level violations of the terms of their supervision. Second, it requires training for law enforcement offcers in how to respond to people experiencing a mental health crisis. Third, it creates local crisis stabilization units that enable law enforcement offcers to divert people with mental illnesses who commit low-level offenses away from county jails to receive mental health treatment in the community. By implementing these policies, the state estimates it will avert hundreds of millions of dollars in prison construction and operating costs and will be able to reinvest savings in areas critical to improving outcomes for people on supervision and increasing public safety. Act 423 is expected to reduce the projected growth in the prison population by nearly 10 percent. This fgure represents more than 1,650 fewer people in prison by FY2023, resulting in projected averted costs of more than $288 million. Details: New York: Council of State Governments, 2017. 4p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 20, 2017 at: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Arkansas-JR-Approach_MAY2017.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United States URL: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Arkansas-JR-Approach_MAY2017.pdf Shelf Number: 148276 Keywords: Costs of CorrectionsCriminal Justice ReformJustice ReinvestmentMental Health ServicesMentally Ill OffendersPrison Population |
Author: Burphy, Zuma Title: Just Health: An enquiry into the emotional health and wellbeing of young people in the Youth Justice System Summary: Between May and November 2016, Peer Power were commissioned by NHS England (London) to facilitate a consultation with children and young people, who had been in contact with the youth justice system. The aim of the consultation was three fold: 1. To hear from young people, who may have been seen by Liaison & Diversion services; 2. To hear from young people, who have been in the youth justice system, in order to understand what has helped them on their journey to a more settled and safer way of life and, or, what could have helped to bring them to an earlier point of change in their life; and 3. To ensure, that the experiences and voices of young people inform the future design and delivery of health and wellbeing services, commissioned by NHS England (London), for young people in the justice system. The consultation was to be facilitated by Peer Leaders that had experience of justice services. As part of the consultation, a film, that explored the views and experiences of five young people with experience of youth justice and health agencies, was also produced. There is a range of Youth Justice Liaison & Diversion providers across London that span across adult and children's mental health providers and statutory youth justice services. This significantly impacted upon Peer Power's ability to reach young people, who had been involved with these services, as many providers were unable to reach, or did not respond to requests regarding, children and young people who had been through the service. A stakeholder event was held on November 9th 2016, where over 100 delegates, including young people and decision makers, came together to hear testimonials from young people and to co-create a vision for future health and wellbeing services. In addition to the threefold aims of the consultation, we identified the further aims of: - Capturing the experiences of young people in police custody more generally; - Capturing the experiences of young people, who have been arrested and are in police custody and seen by L&D services, in an effort to examine: - What is most helpful? - What happens after you have been referred for further support? - Whether young people get support from a community link worker? Exploring the practices of the YJLD services from a service user perspective; - Exploring the perceptions and experiences of L&D services amongst young people; - Identifying areas of improvement for future policy and practice, in order to provide recommendations regarding the design and delivery of L&D services to young people; - Producing a youth-led report, which is written in a style that is accessible by all and engaging. Details: London: ClearView Research, 2016. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 30, 2017 at: http://cdn.basw.co.uk/upload/basw_55523-7.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://cdn.basw.co.uk/upload/basw_55523-7.pdf Shelf Number: 148592 Keywords: Juvenile Offenders Mental Health ServicesPeer Support Youthful Offenders |
Author: Joplin, Lore Title: Jail Diversion for People with Mental Illness in Washington State Summary: Currently, the demand for mental health treatment in Washington far outstrips supply, including in jails, where the proportion of people who have a mental illness is significantly higher than it is in the general population. A recent Washington study showed that, among people entering jail who were enrolled in Medicaid or recently had been, 55 percent had a psychotic disorder and/or a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder; this compares to just 34 percent of the general adult Medicaid population (Henzel et al. 2016). Additional data are available about pretrial detainees waiting in Washington jails for court-ordered services from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) (Trueblood Diversion Plan 2016). These are people who have been charged with a crime but who may not be able to understand the judicial process or the charges against them, or they may not be able to aid in their own defense. Among this population: - 70 percent had had at least two arrests during a recent 12-month period. - 67 percent had had between two and five referrals since 2012 for services to restore their competency to stand trial. - 62 percent had received outpatient mental health services during a recent 12-month period, and 50 percent had received residential services. - 55 percent had a substance use diagnosis, but few had received substance use treatment services during a recent 12-month period. Only 3.2 percent of respondents had received outpatient treatment during a recent 12-month period, and 2.6 percent had received residential treatment. - 46 percent ranked housing as the most helpful diversion service, followed by medication management (13 percent of respondents), case management (15 percent), and employment (8 percent). - 43 percent were eligible for Medicaid. These data suggest that people with mental illness are cycling in and out of Washington's criminal justice system, many of them without receiving treatment. If these individuals match national profiles of people with mental illness who are in jail, they are likely to have a substance abuse disorder, be poor or homeless, and have been repeatedly sexually and physically abused (Steadman 2014). They may also have a chronic physical health problem that will shorten their life by 13 to 30 years (DeHert et al. 2011). Historically they have lacked health insurance, in spite of their high physical and behavioral health care needs-needs that have remained largely unaddressed because of their social conditions, such as poverty, unemployment, low educational achievement, low literacy rates, and homelessness (Hanig 2015). When people with mental illness are arrested, it usually is not for violent behavior but for low-level nuisance crimes, like shoplifting, trespassing, disorderly conduct, and theft (Monahan and Steadman 2012)-or, if they have been arrested before, for technical violations of their community supervision, like possessing alcohol or missing an appointment with their community corrections officer. Once they are in jail, they are vulnerable to intimidation and assault. They may act out or break jail rules because the jail environment has exacerbated the symptoms of their mental illness, and this behavior prolongs their incarceration (Council of State Governments 2002). When they finally are released, their chance of being rearrested is higher than it is for someone without mental illness. Clearly, diverting more of these individuals from jail to community-based mental health treatment could aid them in living in the community, rather than returning repeatedly to jail. Diversion has the potential to cut criminal justice system costs, reduce recidivism, and provide more effective mental health treatment for offenders. It also would represent a more humane response to individuals in jail who have a mental health disorder. Details: Olympia, WA: State of Washington Office of Financial Management, 2016. 133p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed December 6, 2017 at: https://www.ofm.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/legacy/reports/Jail%20Diversion%20for%20People%20with%20Mental%20Illness%20in%20Washington%20State%20Study.pdf Year: 2016 Country: United States URL: https://www.ofm.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/legacy/reports/Jail%20Diversion%20for%20People%20with%20Mental%20Illness%20in%20Washington%20State%20Study.pdf Shelf Number: 148746 Keywords: Diversion Jail Inmates Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders Mentally Ill Persons |
Author: Watts, Alexis Title: Closing the "Gap" Between Competency and Commitment in Minnesota: Ideas from National Standards and Practices in Other States Summary: In Minnesota, a "gap" exists in the justice system for defendants with mental illness. Defendants in criminal cases are found incompetent to stand trial, yet do not meet the higher standard for civil commitment. Commitment is the only way to receive competency restoration treatment, so individuals who do not meet the standard are unable to resolve their criminal cases or to receive treatment. The Robina Institute conducted research see how other states address incompetency. Below are the key findings from that research: 1. Minnesota's system, in which a determination of incompetency to stand trial is not a sufficient basis for the court to mandate some form of restoration to competency treatment, is unique. Most states employ a few basic strategies to treat defendants. A finding of incompetency may trigger: - Some form of commitment (often based on the incompetency finding and not on a separate commitment standard); - Court-ordered inpatient or outpatient treatment; and/or - Pre-trial release during which treatment is a condition of release. 2. States that have not found adequate treatment alternatives but require judges to order treatment often experience an overflow of mentally ill defendants waiting in limbo for a bed after treatment is ordered; many await treatment in jails. 3. Defendant rights are an important consideration in writing a law that closes the "gap." Minnesota's current system holds the individual rights of mentally ill defendants in high regard and does not simply confine them for being incompetent to stand trial as many other states do. 4. A handful of jurisdictions that have streamlined the commitment process or created other legal mechanisms to close the gap have also taken steps to ensure treatment for defendants in the least-restrictive setting. However, the "least restrictive setting" language loses meaning where no alternatives to inpatient treatment exist (similar to civil commitment in Minnesota, which can only be to a secure hospital setting). 5. In some states, "treatability" is a key consideration in determining the appropriate action upon a finding of incompetency. Untreatable defendants may face civil commitment or release but they are not offered treatment resources. 6. Thirty-one states operate formal and informal outpatient competency restoration treatment programs. Meanwhile, several different states have begun to utilize jail-based treatment to competency. However, such a program may not satisfy Minnesota's due process requirements. Solutions to address the competency gap in Minnesota should focus on several areas: - Consider whether to preserve the current legal standard for commitment, lower the standard for this type of commitment, and/or to design an alternative legal mechanism (such as pre-trial conditional release or a court order) for the purposes of competency treatment. Any proposal for change should take into account the capacity of the system and consideration of the state's commitment to the rights of defendants. - Work to develop less restrictive forms of treatment than exist in a maximum-security hospital. Community-based outpatient care may meet the needs of many low-to-medium risk defendants. - Ensure that the treatment delivered is high quality and truly addresses the competency needs of the criminal defendant. - Work to improve the mental health infrastructure in general to make it easier to access care before a crime can take place and to offer an alternative to defendants whose cases are dismissed but who still need treatment. Details: Minneapolis: Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice, 2018. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 8, 2018 at: https://robinainstitute.umn.edu/publications/new-report-alexis-lee-watts-closing-%E2%80%9Cgap%E2%80%9D-between-competency-and-commitment-minnesota-%E2%80%8B Year: 2018 Country: United States URL: https://robinainstitute.umn.edu/publications/new-report-alexis-lee-watts-closing-%E2%80%9Cgap%E2%80%9D-between-competency-and-commitment-minnesota-%E2%80%8B Shelf Number: 149024 Keywords: Competence to Stand TrialDefendantsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill Offenders |
Author: U.S. Government Accountability Office Title: Federal Prisons: Information on Inmates with Serious Mental Illness and Strategies to Reduce Recidivism Summary: About two-thirds of inmates with a serious mental illness in the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) were incarcerated for four types of offenses-drug (23 percent), sex offenses (18 percent), weapons and explosives (17 percent), and robbery (8 percent)-as of May 27, 2017. GAO's analysis found that BOP inmates with serious mental illness were incarcerated for sex offenses, robbery, and homicide/aggravated assault at about twice the rate of inmates without serious mental illness, and were incarcerated for drug and immigration offenses at about half or less the rate of inmates without serious mental illness. GAO also analyzed available data on three selected states' inmate populations and the most common crimes committed by inmates with serious mental illness varied from state to state due to different law enforcement priorities, definitions of serious mental illness and methods of tracking categories of crime in their respective data systems. BOP does not track costs related to incarcerating or providing mental health care services to inmates with serious mental illness, but BOP and selected states generally track these costs for all inmates. BOP does not track costs for inmates with serious mental illness in part because it does not track costs for individual inmates due to resource restrictions and the administrative burden such tracking would require. BOP does track costs associated with mental health care services system-wide and by institution. System-wide, for fiscal year 2016, BOP spent about $72 million on psychology services, $5.6 million on psychotropic drugs and $4.1 million on mental health care in residential reentry centers. The six state departments of corrections each used different methods and provided GAO with estimates for different types of mental health care costs. For example, two states provided average per-inmate costs of incarceration for mental health treatment units where some inmates with serious mental illness are treated; however, these included costs for inmates without serious mental illness housed in those units. DOJ, Department of Health and Human Service's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and criminal justice and mental health experts have developed a framework to reduce recidivism among adults with mental illness. The framework calls for correctional agencies to assess individuals' recidivism risk and substance abuse and mental health needs and target treatment to those with the highest risk of reoffending. To help implement this framework, SAMHSA, in collaboration with DOJ and other experts, developed guidance for mental health, correctional, and community stakeholders on (1) assessing risk and clinical needs, (2) planning treatment in custody and upon reentry based on risks and needs, (3) identifying post-release services, and (4) coordinating with community-based providers to avoid gaps in care. BOP and the six states also identified strategies for reducing recidivism consistent with this guidance, such as memoranda of understanding between correctional and mental health agencies to coordinate care. Further, GAO's literature review found that programs that reduced recidivism among offenders with mental illness generally offered multiple support services, such as mental health and substance abuse treatment, case management, and housing assistance. Details: Washington, DC: GAO, 2018. 75p. Source: Internet Resource: GAO-18-182: Accessed February 27, 2018 at: https://www.gao.gov/assets/700/690279.pdf Year: 2018 Country: United States URL: https://www.gao.gov/assets/700/690279.pdf Shelf Number: 149264 Keywords: Federal PrisonsMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesPrisonersPrisonsRecidivism |
Author: Heyman, Miriam Title: Ruderman White Paper on Mental Health and Suicide of First Responders Summary: A white paper commissioned by the Foundation has revealed that first responders (policemen and firefighters) are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty. In 2017, there were at least 103 firefighter suicides and 140 police officer suicides. In contrast, 93 firefighters and 129 police officers died in the line of duty. Suicide is a result of mental illness, including depression and PTSD, which stems from constant exposure to death and destruction. The white paper study, the Ruderman White Paper on Mental Health and Suicide of First Responders, examines a number of factors contributing to mental health issues among first responders and what leads to their elevated rate of suicide. One study included in the white paper found that on average, police officers witness 188 'critical incidents' during their careers. This exposure to trauma can lead to several forms of mental illness. For example, PTSD and depression rates among firefighters and police officers have been found to be as much as 5 times higher than the rates within the civilian population, which causes these first responders to commit suicide at a considerably higher rate (firefighters: 18/100,000; police officers: 17/100,000; general population 13/100,000). Even when suicide does not occur, untreated mental illness can lead to poor physical health and impaired decision-making. In addition, the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA) estimates that approximately 40% of firefighter suicides are reported. If these estimates are accurate, the actual number of 2017 suicides would be approximately equal to 257, which is more than twice the number of firefighters who died in the line of duty. "First responders are heroes who run towards danger every day in order to save the lives of others. They are also human beings, and their work exerts a toll on their mental health," said Jay Ruderman, President of the Ruderman Family Foundation. "It is our obligation to support them in every way possible - to make sure that they feel welcome and able to access life-saving mental health care. This white paper should serve as a critical call to action to all who care about our heroes in red and blue." The white paper also goes on to lay out several barriers that prevent first responders from accessing necessary mental health services to help them cope with trauma. Experts describe the shame and stigma surrounding mental health within professions that prioritize bravery and toughness, and the public remains largely unaware of these issues, since the vast majority of first responder suicides are not covered by the mainstream media. Additionally, of the 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the United States, approximately 3-5% have suicide prevention training programs. Details: Boston: Ruderman Family Foundations, 2018. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 28, 2018 at: http://rudermanfoundation.org/white_papers/police-officers-and-firefighters-are-more-likely-to-die-by-suicide-than-in-line-of-duty/ Year: 2018 Country: United States URL: http://rudermanfoundation.org/white_papers/police-officers-and-firefighters-are-more-likely-to-die-by-suicide-than-in-line-of-duty/ Shelf Number: 149934 Keywords: First RespondersMental health ServicesPolice SuicidesPost-Traumatic Stress SyndromeSuicide |
Author: Bashford, Jon Title: Inside Gender Identity: A report on meeting the health and social care needs of transgender offenders Summary: This report is about the health and social care needs of trans people in the criminal justice system. This is primarily about offenders, though it should be recognised at the outset that trans people are more often victims of crime than perpetrators. But before we can identify and address the health and social care needs of trans offenders, and what might best be done to meet those needs, we must understand what is meant by the term 'trans'. Firstly, trans is used in this report as an umbrella term that describes a variety of ways of being human that do not fit with, or conform to, stereotypical and/or binary definitions of gender. Secondly, as will be evident from the first statement, trans is a term that is complex to understand and can never do justice to the wide variety of ways of being in the world and identities that it seeks to describe. But this is not entirely unfamiliar territory; the terms Black or South Asian have often been used to describe groups or communities of people that in fact have enormous differences, that make the terms at best unhelpful and at worse a liability. The aim of the review was to provide NHS England, Public Health England and Her Majesty's Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS) with an appropriate assessment of the evidence base on meeting the health and social care needs of trans people in the criminal justice system. The report on the findings is for the purpose of informing policy and practice in the offender health system, including all ages and the range of provision. This includes an evaluation of the way in which the needs of transgender individuals are included in offender health and social care needs assessments and the implications for service provision and practice. Objectives The specific objectives include: 1. A review of the literature from the UK and other countries as relevant, with respect to health and social care needs of transgender individuals in the criminal justice system. 2. An assessment of current practice with regard to meeting the health and social care needs of transgender individuals in health and social care needs assessments within the criminal justice system. 3. An exploration of the issues for practice in meeting the health and social needs of transgender individuals amongst health and social care staff working in the criminal justice system. 4. To make recommendations for action based on the findings of the above for NHS England and related stakeholders e.g. Public Health England, Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and related criminal justice partners. Details: Community Innovations Enterprise, 2017. 102p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 28, 2018 at: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/cc3101_97d3c7c868bd434a843546100db510f2.pdf Year: 2017 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/cc3101_97d3c7c868bd434a843546100db510f2.pdf Shelf Number: 149952 Keywords: Health CareMental Health ServicesTransgender InmatesTransgender Offenders |
Author: INQUEST Title: Still Dying on the Inside: Examining deaths in women's prisons Summary: Emily Hartley, aged 21, was the youngest of 22 women to die in prison in 2016, the year that saw the highest annual number of deaths in women's prisons on record. Emily was imprisoned for arson, having set fire to herself, her bed and curtains. She had a history of serious mental ill-health including self-harm, suicide attempts and drug addiction. This was Emily's first time in prison. A prison that could not keep her safe. A sentence that cost her life. On 1st February 2018 the inquest investigating Emily's self-inflicted death concluded with deeply critical findings about her care and the failure to transfer her to a therapeutic setting. What made her premature and preventable death all the more shocking is that ten years to the day of Emily's inquest, the same coroner had dealt with a strikingly similar death, that of Petra Blanksby. Nineteen year-old Petra was imprisoned for an arson offence, having set fire to her bedroom in an attempt to take her own life. Two women, ten years apart, criminalised for being mentally unwell. Petra too, had a history of mental ill health and suicide attempts. At the end of her inquest in 2008, the coroner recommended to the Prison Service and Department of Health they should deal with the lack of secure therapeutic facilities outside prison. At the conclusion of Emily's inquest, the same coroner David Hinchliff wrote: "I repeat ten years later that the Prison's Department and the Department of Health should conduct a collaborative exercise to achieve the provision of suitable, secure, therapeutic environments in order to treat those with mental health problems". Eleven years after the publication of Baroness Corston's seminal review in 2007 of women in the criminal justice system, the situation has never felt so desperate. It is with anger, sadness and deep frustration that we report almost no progress on the necessary systemic and structural change needed. Ninety-three women have died in women's prisons since March 2007. The casework team at INQUEST continue to support families whose daughters, sisters, mothers, aunts and grandmothers have died. The harms of imprisonment follow women back into the community, as demonstrated by the fact that 116 women died after release from prison between 2010 and 2017. INQUEST's work with bereaved families seeks to make visible the women behind the statistics and the structural issues behind their criminalisation and imprisonment. We seek to show the human face of this pernicious social problem, because so many of these deaths are preventable. They raise profound concerns about human rights violations - not only the failure to provide a safe and dignified environment, but also the failure to act to prevent further deaths, an aspiration that unites all bereaved families. The women's names memorialised in this report are a stark reminder of the tragic human consequences of the failure of successive governments to take seriously the needs of women experiencing a range of health, economic and social inequalities. They also speak to institutional state violence and how our prisons today systematically generate pain and suffering and how they can lead to death. This report provides unique insight into deaths in women's prisons. It is empirically grounded in (1) an examination of official data; (2) INQUEST's original research and casework; and (3) an analysis of coroners' 'Prevention of Future Death' reports and narrative jury findings. This evidence has been strengthened by the facilitation of families' legal representation and the more effective participation of the bereaved. This has led to more searching questions at inquests and has shone a light on the shocking reality of women's experiences in the criminal justice system. Details: London: INQUEST, 2018. 24p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 8, 2018 at: https://www.inquest.org.uk/Handlers/Download.ashx?IDMF=8d39dc1d-02f7-48eb-b9ac-2c063d01656a Year: 2018 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.inquest.org.uk/Handlers/Download.ashx?IDMF=8d39dc1d-02f7-48eb-b9ac-2c063d01656a Shelf Number: 150106 Keywords: Deaths in CustodyFemale InmatesFemale PrisonersMental Health ServicesPrison Suicides |
Author: Fischer, Aaron J. Title: Suicides in San Diego County Jail: A System Failing People with Mental Illness Summary: San Diego County faces a crisis in its jail system. It has the highest reported number of suicides in a California jail system over several years - more than 30 suicide deaths since 2010. The inmate suicide rate has been many times higher than the rate in similarly sized county jails in California, the State prison system, and jails nationally. This is a crisis demanding meaningful action. While the County reported just one inmate suicide in 2017, which is a welcome decrease compared to previous years, the system remains deeply challenged. The incidence of inmate suicide attempts and serious self-harm remains extremely high - a rate of approximately two (2) per week. The frequency of suicide attempts indicates that the County must improve its treatment of people with mental health needs. Recognition that San Diego County has a problem with suicides and other deaths at the jail is not new. There has been a steady drumbeat of calls to action, from the County's grand juries, the media, and people who have been incarcerated at the jail and their loved ones. As the designated protection and advocacy system charged with protecting the rights of people with disabilities in California, Disability Rights California (DRC) opened an investigation into conditions at the San Diego County jails in 2015. We conducted tours of the County's jail facilities, and completed extensive interviews with Sheriff's Department leadership, jail staff, and jail inmates. We have reviewed thousands of pages of relevant policies and procedures, Sheriff's Department records, and individual inmate records. Our investigation focuses on four interconnected aspects of San Diego's County jail and mental health systems. We provide specific Recommendations regarding each. Over-Incarceration of People with Mental Health Needs. First, we found that there is an extremely high number of jail inmates with significant mental health treatment needs. The County's mental health care system, both inside and outside of the jail, has long operated in a way that leads to the dangerous, costly, and counter-productive over-incarceration of people with mental health-related disabilities. This includes a historical failure to provide sufficient community-based mental health services and supports that help individuals with mental health needs to thrive and avoid entanglement with the criminal justice system and incarceration. There is an urgent need for a better approach. We found that the County's recently developed Mental Health Services Act Plan and related initiatives - including increased community based-services and diversion/reentry efforts - provide a reason for optimism. Of course, the County's efforts will be judged on outcomes in the months and years ahead. Deficiencies in Suicide Prevention. Second, our two subject matter experts, who reviewed inmate suicide cases as well as relevant policies, identified significant deficiencies in the County's suicide prevention practices. These experts, Karen Higgins, M.D., and Robert Canning, Ph.D., CCHP, have considerable expertise in suicide prevention and mental health treatment in detention facilities. They have completed a detailed written report (Appendix A), which identifies twenty-four (24) Key Deficiencies in the County's system and provides forty-six (46) Recommendations to address those deficiencies. While we are convinced that the Sheriff's Department has begun to take the issue of suicide prevention seriously, there remain many aspects of the system's treatment of people at risk of suicide that require urgent action. Failure to Provide Adequate Mental Health Treatment. Third, we found that the County's jail system subjects inmates with mental health needs to a grave risk of psychological and other harms by failing to provide adequate mental health treatment. Making matters worse, the County subjects inmates to dangerous solitary confinement conditions that take an enormous toll on individuals' mental health and well-being. A substantial number of the suicides in San Diego County's jails have occurred in designated segregation units and other units with solitary confinement conditions. Even with committed jail leadership and staff efforts to reduce solitary confinement and improve conditions, insufficient staffing and lack of other critical resources have caused these problems to persist. Lack of Meaningful, Independent Oversight. Fourth, we found that the existing systems of jail oversight have failed. The time has come for the County to create an independent and professional oversight entity to monitor jail conditions, suicide prevention and mental health treatment practices, and other jail operations. A truly effective independent oversight entity, building on the models developed in Los Angeles County, Santa Clara County, Sonoma County, and other jurisdictions across the country, would enhance the County's efforts to address its historical challenges in its jails, help to achieve and solidify system improvements, and strengthen the trust of the community through greater transparency. We have found that the County's jails have the great advantage of committed mental health staff and a number of strong leaders within the Sheriff's Department. They will need sustained investment and support from the County - along with true transparency and accountability - to achieve a durable solution to the inmate suicide crisis, the deficiencies in mental health treatment inside the jail, and the over-incarceration of people with mental health needs. Details: Sacramento: Disability Rights California, 2018. 71p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 8, 2018 at: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/system/files/file-attachments/SDsuicideReport.pdf Year: 2018 Country: United States URL: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/system/files/file-attachments/SDsuicideReport.pdf Shelf Number: 150114 Keywords: Jail InmatesJail SuicidesMental Health ServicesMentally Ill InmatesMentally Ill PersonsSuicides |
Author: Holihen, Katie Title: Park Ridge's Success Story on Going Beyond Crisis Intervention Team Training: Building Whole-Community Responses to Mental Health Summary: As community-based mental health services go unfunded or lack sufficient resources, the safety net for people with mental illness has been essentially eliminated. At the community level, emergency rooms and law enforcement have become the new front doors to what remains of our mental health system, operating as the first point of contact for people in crisis or with chronic mental illness. As such, there is a pressing need for education and collaboration between these parties, as well as with the larger community. Specifically, in regards to law enforcement, agencies need to examine how to best manage officers' increasingly frequent contact with individuals with mental illness, including how to interact with them in a safe and compassionate way. Lack of training can quickly lead to the misinterpretation of intent of individuals in crisis, which, as seen in several high-profile officer-involved shootings across the country, could be the difference between life and death. Make no mistake, law enforcement as a profession has advanced considerably in its response to calls for service involving people with mental illness, in part because of the implementation of specialized police responses (SPR),1 which fall primarily into two categories: (1) the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Model, which was founded by the University of Memphis and was first implemented in Memphis, Tennessee,2 and (2) law enforcement and mental health co-responder teams, which was pioneered in Los Angeles County, California. As a cornerstone program for improving responses to people in crisis, the CIT Model, also known as the Memphis Model, and its affiliated training have been implemented in hundreds of police jurisdictions nationwide. Developed in the late 1980s, the CIT Model works to improve both officer and community safety by providing officers with relevant training and to reduce reliance on the criminal justice system by building stronger links within the mental health system. Details: Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, 2018. 48p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 11, 2018 at : https://ric-zai-inc.com/Publications/cops-w0856-pub.pdf Year: 2018 Country: United States URL: https://ric-zai-inc.com/Publications/cops-w0856-pub.pdf Shelf Number: 150818 Keywords: Community Oriented PolicingCommunity ParticipationCrisis InterventionMental Health ServicesMentally Ill PersonsPolice and the Mentally IllPolice-Citizen InteractionsPolice-Community Relations |
Author: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Title: Sleeping rough: A profile of Specialist Homelessness Services clients Summary: On Census night in 2016, around 8,200 Australians were sleeping rough (ABS 2018)-living on the streets, sleeping in parks, squatting, staying in cars or living in improvised dwellings. Despite accounting for only around 1 in 14 Australians who are homeless, rough sleepers are the most visible of those experiencing homelessness and are recognised as some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in society (Phillips and Parsell 2012). This report presents, for the first time, a comprehensive analysis of Australia's rough sleepers, over a 4 year period, using the Specialist Homelessness Services Collection (SHSC). Rough sleepers are more likely to be male, aged 35 or over, unemployed, living alone and have mental health and/or drug or alcohol issues As a group, the nearly 13,700 rough sleepers showed different demographic characteristics from all other adult clients (143,000) who sought the assistance of specialist homelessness services (SHS) upon their first presentation to services in 2011-12: - 66% were male, compared with 36% of other adult SHS clients - 54% were aged 35 or over, compared with 45% of other adult SHS clients - 94% were unemployed or not in the labour force, compared with 87% of other adult SHS clients - 68% were living alone, compared with 34% of other adult SHS clients - 47% had a mental health issue (34% of other adult SHS clients) and 34% reported a drug and/or alcohol issue (17% of other adult SHS clients). Analysis of the service use patterns of rough sleepers presenting to SHS in 2011-12 revealed 3 cohorts of rough sleepers Persistent service users: accessed services every financial year from 2011-12 to 2014-15 and account for 13% of all rough sleepers. Service cyclers accessed services in 2 or 3 years of the 4-year period and account for 42% of all rough sleepers. Transitory service users accessed services in 2011-12 only and account for 44% of all rough sleepers. Service use increases with increasingly complex needs While rough sleepers have a similar demographic profile, they showed increasing service use according to their needs or 'vulnerability conditions' - in this analysis, based on whether someone had ever reported: a mental health issue, experienced problematic drug and/or alcohol use, and/or experienced domestic or family violence. Persistent service users (1,800 people) had the most complex needs. Eight in 10 reported a mental health issue, while two-thirds reported at least 2 of the 3 vulnerability conditions. Service cyclers (5,800 people): more than half reported a mental health issue, while 2 in 5 reported at least 2 of the 3 vulnerability conditions. Transitory service users (6,100 people) were the least likely to report experiencing mental health issues, domestic or family violence and/or problematic drug and/or alcohol use. Fewer than 1 in 5 reported at least 2 out of 3 vulnerability conditions. Rough sleepers most frequently seek accommodation and financial services Accommodation and financial services were most commonly sought by all 3 groups of rough sleepers. Younger clients aged 15-24 were more likely to seek these services than clients aged 50 and over. Rough sleepers also sought assistance with interpersonal relationships - particularly domestic and family violence, and sexual abuse. Across all 3 groups of rough sleepers, females were around 5 times as likely as males to seek assistance with domestic and family violence and sexual abuse. Short-term or emergency accommodation most commonly provided to rough sleepers Rough sleepers were much more likely to receive short-term or emergency accommodation (ranging from 65% of transitory service users to 86% of persistent service users), over medium-term or transitional housing (20%-41% across the 3 groups) and only a small proportion received a long-term housing solution (6%14%). Accordingly, a lack of long-term housing solutions-that is, neither receiving nor being referred to another agency for a long-term housing solution-was identified as the largest gap in service provision. Persistent service users most likely to engage with services Consistent with persistent service users accessing support in all 4 years examined, they were also more likely to have more frequent contact with services (a greater number of support periods per person) than all rough sleepers. Almost half of this group had 10 or more support periods, while fewer than 1 in 10 service cyclers had the same level of engagement. As transitory service users accessed support only in 2011-12 this group had far less engagement-three-quarters (76%) had only 1 support period. Persistent service users were also more likely to receive more nights of accommodation, compared with both service cyclers and transitory service users. Many rough sleepers experience repeat episodes of homelessness Despite receiving support from SHS agencies, many rough sleepers experienced repeat episodes of homelessness, and remained homeless at the end of the 4-year period. More than 6 in 10 persistent service users had repeat periods of homelessness during the 4 years (that is, transitioned from homeless to housed and then to homeless again) and around 5 in 10 remained homeless at the end of the study, even after accessing services in each of the 4 years being reported. Around one-quarter of service cyclers also experienced repeat episodes of homelessness and 4 in 10 were homeless at the end of the period. While transitory service users accessed services only in 2011-12, more than 6 in 10 were homeless after their support. For up to 1 in 5 rough sleepers who accessed support over the 4 years, their housing outcome was unknown at the end of the reporting period. Linking data sets could provide more comprehensive information This analysis reports only on clients accessing services from SHS agencies, and not all homeless or rough sleepers. It also reports only on findings to 30 June 2015. Linking this data to other sources-for example, information on rent assistance, income support, or social housing-would provide more comprehensive information on a client's circumstances, journey and outcomes, to better inform service responses. Details: Canberra: AIHW, 2018. 98p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 12, 2018 at: https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/96b4d8ce-d82c-4149-92aa-2784698795ba/aihw-hou-297.pdf.aspx?inline=true Year: 2018 Country: Australia URL: https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/96b4d8ce-d82c-4149-92aa-2784698795ba/aihw-hou-297.pdf.aspx?inline=true Shelf Number: 151498 Keywords: Homeless Persons Homelessness Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Persons Rough Sleepers |
Author: Council of State Governments Justice Center Title: Police-Mental Health Collaborations: A Framework for Implementing Effective Law Enforcement Responses for People Who Have Mental Health Needs Summary: Increasingly, law enforcement officers are called on to be the first, and often the only, responders to calls involving people who have mental health needs. To begin tackling that challenge, The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center released a framework to help law enforcement agencies across the country better respond to the growing number of calls for service they receive involving this population. Police-Mental Health Collaborations: A Framework for Implementing Effective Law Enforcement Responses for People Who Have Mental Health Needs is a publication intended to help jurisdictions advance comprehensive, agency-wide responses to people who have mental illnesses. These responses feature cross-system collaborations between the criminal justice and behavioral health systems. The framework is organized around six main questions that law enforcement executives should consider to be successful in implementing or improving police-mental health collaborations (PMHCs) in their jurisdiction. These questions are: Is our leadership committed? Do we have clear policies and procedures to respond to people who have mental health needs? Do we provide staff with quality mental health and stabilization training? Does the community have a full array of mental health services and supports for people who have mental health needs? Do we collect and analyze data to measure the PMHC against the four key outcomes? Do we have a formal and ongoing process for reviewing and improving performance? Written primarily for law enforcement executives, and with support from the U.S. Justice Department's Bureau of Justice Assistance, the framework also highlights jurisdictions that have excelled in each area. Details: New York: Author, 2019. 24p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 20, 2019 at: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Police-Mental-Health-Collaborations-Framework.pdf Year: 2019 Country: United States URL: https://csgjusticecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Police-Mental-Health-Collaborations-Framework.pdf Shelf Number: 155903 Keywords: Mental Health ServicesMentally Ill Persons Police-Mental Health Collaborations |