Service-user involvement in forensic mental health care research: Areas to consider when developing a collaborative study

Abstract

Background: Although service-users are increasingly involved in the conduct of research in mental health settings, involvement in forensic mental health settings is limited.

Aims: This paper looks at the factors perceived by professionals and service-users as important for developing collaborative research in forensic mental health settings.

Method: Following a collaborative research project undertaken in three forensic mental health units, the researchers involved in the project (professionals and service-users) reviewed factors perceived as important for developing service-user research in secure settings.

Results: Three broad themes were identified. The main issues considered within these themes were detailed.

Conclusions: Service-users in forensic mental health settings are able to have full involvement in research.

Keywords:

• Forensic psychiatry
• views/attitudes of consumers
• collaborative research

Funding: The original study was supported by a grant from the National Forensic Mental Health Research and Development Programme. Grant Number: MRD 12/51.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflict of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.