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

Recovery-oriented models are rarely taught to care providers, and knowledge is insufficient on the practical challenges of implementing recovery-oriented care in secure settings with consistency and fidelity. This study identifies the knowledge, skills, and education needs of forensic care staff related to the practice and implementation of secure recovery. Our mixed-methods approach using a needs assessment survey and focus groups found that most (73.2-77.8%) staff surveyed (n = 108) reported "excellent" or "good" knowledge and understanding of recovery-oriented care. Fewer (43.5%) staff felt confident in their ability to administer risk and recovery-oriented assessment tools in forensic settings. The conceptual domains of knowledge, skills, and education needs were clear in focus group data. Data reflected a varied understanding among staff regarding secure recovery principles and variation as to what recovery "looks like" in practice. Participants perceived a lack of available training and support when commencing employment in forensic mental health, and specific gaps in knowledge and training were noted in relation to the structured risk and recovery tools used in our program. Results from this study will be used to improve forensic patient care through implementation of a tailored educational curriculum in secure recovery for forensic staff.