National survey of current arrangements for diversion from custody in England and Wales.

摘要: OBJECTIVES--To assess the extent and nature of psychiatric assessment schemes based at magistrates' courts in England Wales for early diversion mentally disordered offenders from custody to determine response NHS new initiatives concerning alternatives this group. DESIGN--Postal survey probation service, petty sessional divisions, mental health provider units, district purchasing authorities Wales. SUBJECTS--All chief officers (n = 55), clerks justices 284), managers units 190), purchasers services 190) each authorities. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--Number schemes, practical difficulties their operation, regular liaison with social services; current future intentions purchase or provide custody. RESULTS--Data were obtained every court. Forty eight identified another 34 under development. Particular problems lack adequate transport arrangements, hospital admissions, overdependence on key people. There was little between health, services, members criminal justice system. Twenty five 106 who responded had a policy dealing diversion, 39 scheme development; 56 no plans about diversion. Sixty nine 150 providers reported that included next business plan. CONCLUSION--Schemes divert system are often hampered by