Exploring Secure Recovery Knowledge, Skills, and Education Needs of Forensic Staff

Area of Science:

• Forensic mental health
• Psychiatric rehabilitation
• Healthcare education

Background:

• Recovery-oriented models are under-taught to care providers.
• Implementing recovery-oriented care in secure settings presents practical challenges.
• Limited understanding exists regarding consistent and faithful application of these models in forensic environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the knowledge, skills, and education needs of forensic care staff.
• To explore the practical challenges in implementing recovery-oriented care in secure forensic settings.
• To inform the development of a tailored educational curriculum for forensic staff.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a needs assessment survey and focus groups.
• Survey data was collected from 108 forensic care staff members.
• Focus groups explored conceptual domains of knowledge, skills, and education needs in depth.

Main Results:

• While most staff reported good knowledge of recovery-oriented care, less than half felt confident using risk and recovery assessment tools.
• Focus group data revealed varied understanding of secure recovery principles and practical application.
• Staff reported a lack of training and support, particularly concerning specific risk and recovery tools.

Conclusions:

• There are significant gaps in the training and practical skills of forensic care staff regarding secure recovery.
• A tailored educational curriculum is needed to improve the implementation of recovery-oriented care in forensic settings.
• Addressing these needs will enhance the quality of care for forensic patients.