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Abstract
This article explores the extent and quality of mental health care and services in Young Offender Institutions. It is argued that, despite legislation and government policy to safeguard welfare, services do not meet the complex needs of this group of vulnerable young people. The high prevalence of mental health problems amongst incarcerated youth is not reflected in the provision of mental health services in custody. Problems associated with multi-agency collaboration, assessment, treatment and social stigma are explored. The article questions the suitability of criminal incarceration and considers less stigmatising provision to meet the standards of ‘Every Child Matters’.
Notes
1. Screening Questionnaire for Adolescents (SQIFA). A short mental health screening tool triggered by ASSET. Available from: http://www.yjb.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/DB34D21C-2FF5-4E80-AF09-8A49FAF86C7B/0/SQIFA.pdfHYPERLINK
2. Screening Interview for Adolescents (SIFA). Detailed mental health interview triggered by ASSET. Available from http://www.yjb.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/F1EDA350-70DB-437C-8F3F-5D19FD57E533/0/SIFA.pdf
3. ASSET, an assessment framework for young people involved in the youth justice system.
4. What do you think?, A questionnaire completed by young person to accompany Asset core profile.