Independent investigation: Thelma Allum, Maidenhead, Berks (1997)

that simple arrangements are developed which ensure that mental health professionals who conduct police station assessments of persons arrested for assault, and those conducting risk assessments following admission and prior to discharge, possess detailed information about the suspected assault. The … Read more that simple arrangements are developed which ensure that mental health professionals who conduct police station assessments of persons arrested for assault, and those conducting risk assessments following admission and prior to discharge, possess detailed information about the suspected assault. The primary duty should be on the police to furnish this information, but NHS and CMHT staff should be under a duty to obtain it if they are aware that it has not been provided in a particular case. Show less

that, to this end, a protocol should be developed which addresses the issue of confidentiality and the sharing of information between agencies. This should emphasise the importance of considering— • who is most at risk of violence; • whether these … Read more that, to this end, a protocol should be developed which addresses the issue of confidentiality and the sharing of information between agencies. This should emphasise the importance of considering— • who is most at risk of violence; • whether these individuals are aware of the risk, the history of violence, the context within which it occurred, and any warning signs; • whether strictly observing the confidentiality of patient information will place any person(s) at greater risk; and, therefore, • whether information about the risks should be shared with those bearing the risks, as part of the risk management strategy. Show less

that each police station should, at all times, have a named duty officer who is to act as the primary point of contact with mental health professionals regarding police investigations of violent offences alleged to have been committed by in-patients … Read more that each police station should, at all times, have a named duty officer who is to act as the primary point of contact with mental health professionals regarding police investigations of violent offences alleged to have been committed by in-patients and out-patients. Show less

that simple arrangements are developed which ensure that the suspected victim(s) of the assault, and any adults with whom the patient proposes to reside, are consulted about, and notified of, hospital leave and discharge decisions.

that training on the Code of Practice covers the new guidance in the third edition as to the factors to consider when deciding whether or not informal admission is appropriate (see p.15).

that the named duty police officer (see recommendation 3) will consult the patient’s consultant about the advisability of prosecuting a person in such circumstances, and that the outcome of that discussion will be recorded in the patient’s notes.

that the police or the Crown Prosecution Service should record their reasons for not charging an arrested person who is removed to hospital without charge, given that the absence of a caution or conviction may be important, including to the … Read more that the police or the Crown Prosecution Service should record their reasons for not charging an arrested person who is removed to hospital without charge, given that the absence of a caution or conviction may be important, including to the victim. The police should then communicate this information to the relevant NHS trust. Show less