Establishing secure mental health facilities: The outcome of public consultation exercises

Abstract

This study investigated public perceptions of developing secure mental health facilities in the community. Four specific cases were investigated in the North of England where community Trusts conducted a public consultation exercise in relation to the proposed development of a medium secure unit. The findings suggest that the Trust managers tended to underestimate the depth of public feeling and this fostered residents' suspicions and hostility. There were discrepancies between the perceived fears identified by local residents and Trust managers. Some Regional Offices and Health Authorities were criticised for their lack of support for the Trusts proposals. Local politicians played a very influential part in the consultation process. These findings highlight the need for trusts to be open with all interested parties as early as possible. The maintenance of an ongoing dialogue with local residents, politicians, media, service user groups, community health councils and statutory bodies is essential.