Forensic Psychiatry

Forensic psychiatrists specialize in balancing the needs of individuals with the risks of harm to others. They provide assessment and treatment to offenders with mental health problems in prisons, secure hospitals, and the community. Their work involves understanding the complex relationship between mental health and the law. Forensic psychiatrists commonly work in secure hospital environments but may also deliver services to prisons or provide specialist community services. Their patients are typically subject to legal restrictions. General Responsibilities: 1. Assess and limit further harm to the patient or others. 2. Assess the risk of harm to others as well as to the patient themselves. 3. Ensure appropriate and regular review of the assessment and strategy. 4. Contribute to the design of treatment facilities and programs. 5. Provide expert advice to other health and social care professionals. 6. Offer specialist advice to the courts, probation service, prison service, and other psychiatric colleagues. 7. Prepare reports for mental health review tribunals, hospital managers' hearings, other practitioners, and criminal justice agencies. 8. Develop forensic low-security hospital beds for patients working towards discharge and recovery.