An update from Scottish Government regarding the future strategic planning and governance of forensic mental health services in Scotland
On 28 May 2024, Scottish Government shared a letter from the Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport. The letter outlines a proposal for a Forensic Mental Health Board for Scotland to be established, utilising existing legislation and functions of The State Hospitals Board for Scotland. A ‘Forensic Governance Advisory Group’ will be established to engage with stakeholders across the system and to advise on the operational, legal and practical changes needed to transition from existing governance arrangements to a new Board with responsibilities for forensic mental health services beyond The State Hospital. Annex A provides a Q&A document which provides further detail on key areas to be considered.
As a Forensic Network, we welcome this proposal and are pleased that a way forward has now been established. It was clear that the status quo was no longer viable or wholly supported and that change was necessary. Over the past five years, we have consistently highlighted the need for oversight of the whole forensic system, and for a clear governance structure with the operational authority to develop and effectively manage services. The creation of a Forensic Mental Health Board for Scotland will address many of the issues outlined in the Independent Review and provide opportunities to work collaboratively to improve the quality of care for patients in forensic mental health services in Scotland. We offer our support to Scottish Government and the Forensic Governance Advisory Group in advancing this proposal over the coming months.
Should you wish to share any initial thoughts or seek additional information, please email the Scottish Government Forensic Reform team at forensicmentalhealthreformteam@gov.scot