Abstract
Evidence suggests a complex relationship between substance misuse, mental health, and violence in forensic populations, however, the majority of existing research and interventions focus on these factors individually. This paper reports an evaluation of the first module of an integrated poly-substance misuse group delivered within a medium secure mental health hospital, which was designed to address these factors collectively. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to assess participant's subjective views of the program and to gather pre and post quantitative measurement of change. The concordance between self report and observer reports was explored. Recommendations for the development of the treatment and for further evaluation and research are discussed.
Notes
1A secure inpatient mental health facility providing treatment to individuals who are detained under the Mental Health Act (1983) and who are deemed to be a risk to others. Typically individuals have a forensic history or present with extremely challenging behavior.
2Responsible Medical Officer – the consultant psychiatrist in charge of the individuals' treatment.