A protocol in action: Recovery approach for patients within high secure care: A 20+ year follow-up

A person-centred approach to recovery is increasingly represented within mainstream mental health literature. Little examination of recovery among forensic mental health patients is evidenced. This study plans to address that insufficiency.

This protocol paper details a novel approach to exploring recovery among a cohort of 241 patients detained under conditions of high secure care in Scotland during August 1992 to August 1993. Under discussion is the repurposing of previous research to circumnavigate length of inpatient stay commonly associated with forensic mental health care. The methodology adopted, while considering data leakage given the vulnerable participant group, will be discussed.

Repurposing and extending previous research attempts to address the file cabinet effect with 85% of health care research being wasted and future uncertainty regarding research funding in a post-Brexit era. This is an ongoing study. Ethical, confidentiality, privacy issues, and permissions are considered within the methodology.

Ethical arguments can be made for tracing and attempting contact with vulnerable groups under-represented in the literature. A well-considered methodology putting the focus on participant welfare and confidentiality at every step is essential. The reported methodology provides an opportunity to expand and re-examine previously collected data through a contemporary lens.