Setting up psychiatric liaison schemes to magistrates' courts: problems and practicalities

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychiatry
• Mental Health Services Research

Background:

• Home Office recommendations highlight the need for psychiatric liaison services in magistrates' courts.
• This paper details the establishment and operation of such a service at Clerkenwell Magistrates' Court over 20 months.

Framework:

• The service aims to bridge the gap between the legal and mental health systems.
• Focuses on practical aspects of service initiation and ongoing management.

Implementation:

• Addresses challenges in personnel, facilities, interdisciplinary relations, and legal frameworks (Mental Health Act).
• Explores difficulties in coordinating with catchment area mental health services.

Implications:

• Offers practical solutions for overcoming identified obstacles in psychiatric liaison services.
• Discusses the future development and sustainability of court-based mental health support.