This report focuses on risks posed to others, and
aims to stimulate further debate and research as well as
improvements in clinical practice and patient and public safety. It
sets out current understanding of best practice and points to
future action needed for further improvements.
The assessment and management of risk are integral to psychiatric
practice. Over the last 10 years, the risk posed by mental health
service users to others has been brought into the spotlight by the
government and media as inquiries into serious incidents have
suggested failings in the risk management of some patients with
mental disorders.
All psychiatrists are conscious of the immeasurable impact of
homicides and violence on victims, perpetrators and families, and
recognise their responsibility to their patients and the wider
public to use their professional skills to reduce risk.
The report describes key findings from a major survey of College
members, and makes recommendations to improve the assessment and
management of risk.