Broadmoor airs reservations over personality disorder service redesign

The trust has published its response to the consultation on the Joint Department of Health/National Offender Management Service Offender Personality Pathway Implementation Plan. It notes that it supports the general principles expressed in the document but also notes some reservations.

Director of high secure services Leeanne McGee’s report to the board said: “[I] have some reservations regarding the ability of the prison service to deliver what the proposal intends as it will require a significant culture shift and appropriate leadership and specialist staff.

“It is likely that existing patients may seek a judicial review regarding the proposed changes.”

The report added: “There will be financial implications within the hospital’s service should the service retract.”

WLMHT is one of three mental health trusts in England to run high-secure mental health services.

The document warned: “The decommissioning of Dangerous People with Severe Personality Disorder pilots across all levels of security, some of which have been operational for some time will potentially adversely affect those currently receiving treatment (alternative placements will have to be identified and loss of therapeutic relationships). It will also lead to the loss of experienced and skilled staff.

“There continues to be a lack of clarity between how criminal justice service and NHS settings are optimised for their respective populations. Further clarity is required not only to ensure consistency of delivery but also to safeguard against duplicating work.

“It is likely that during the ‘decommissioning’ phase these units will face the prospect of increased incidents with staff and patients and as a result potential adverse media coverage.”