Suicide prevention across the UK criminal justice system: an overview of current provision and future directions. Issue 1 (1st February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oliveira Antunes, Stefanie; Wainwright, Verity; Gredecki, Neil
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic practice. Volume 23:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 62
• Publication Date: 2021-02-01
• Subjects: Criminal justice system -- Self-harm -- Suicide -- Suicide prevention -- Staff perspectives -- Suicide policies; Forensic psychiatry -- Periodicals; Forensic psychology -- Periodicals; 614.15
• DOI: 10.1108/JFP-07-2020-0029
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-8794

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This paper aims to provide an overview of current suicide prevention across the UK criminal justice system (CJS). It considers shortcomings in current provision and how improvements could be made by drawing on international practice. Recommendations for practice going forward and suggestions for future research are made based on the literature. Design/methodology/approach: This paper provides an overview of suicide prevention research to date. Relevant literature was identified through a basic journal article search, including terms such as "probation", "criminal justice system", "suicide", "suicide prevention", "UK" and "suicide theory". Findings: This paper highlights opportunities to improve practice based on the current evidence base, making several recommendations and suggestions for practice, including improving multi-agency cooperation through clearer distribution of responsibilities, simplifying data sharing and investing in trauma-focussed suicide training for staff. Practical implications: This paper considers how research and psychological theory has informed suicide prevention practice in the UK. Limitations and challenges in applying theory to practice are explored, in the context of research with frontline staff who use such policies. This review proposes potential improvements to suicide prevention implementation to reduce suicide across the wider CJS. Originality/value: This article represents an overview of the existing literature as well as possible future ideas for policy. It is therefore a piece that represents the viewpoint of all involved authors.