Women's experience of forensic mental health services: implications for practice

The aim of this pilot study is to explore women's experiences of forensic mental health care with a view to designing a larger scale research project.

In‐depth interviews were undertaken with seven self‐selected women who had experience of using secure services currently or in the past.

The findings revealed three key themes: women's experiences of settings and treatments; relationships with staff; and how placements impacted upon important social contacts with family and friends. Despite their relatively disadvantaged position, the women were able to articulate what worked and offered clear solutions for implementing best practice.

The women's experiences testified to the importance of meaningful relationships with professionals, and with families and friends, as protective factors to help manage risk. This “relational security” is particularly for women in secure services and can be promoted in a range of ways, hinging upon consistency of care, well managed transitions, and appropriate therapeutic treatment.