Criminal justice support services reach out to reduce reoffending
For prison leaver Kyle*, the thought of returning to the community after a spell inside was a big worry. He was determined to get back on his feet and fit in with society on his release, but he wasn't sure where to start.
That was where NHFT's Reconnect service stepped in to help. Part of a range of health and wellbeing support services offered by the Trust for people at different stages of the criminal justice system, it works to help prisoners prepare for life on the outside - supporting recovery, reducing health inequalities and lowering the risk of reoffending.
"I was nervous about leaving prison, but my Reconnect worker helped me with everything - from setting up a bank account to attending appointments," said Kyle.
"She even came with me to my first mental health session, which I wouldn't have gone to alone. Now I'm in full-time work, have my own flat and feel like I'm starting to fit into society."
At the other end of the criminal justice system, NHFT's Liaison and Diversion service works in police custody suites, courts, probation services and in the community to identify vulnerable people in need of support. That could be someone arrested or in court for an alleged offence who is considered more vulnerable because of a mental health problem, a learning disability, neurodiversity or substance misuse.
The team then works with the individual and connects them with other services which can help them to improve their health and wellbeing and make it less likely they will offend or reach crisis point in future.
And for those convicted of offences eligible for a community or suspended sentence and who have a mental health condition, NHFT's Mental Health Treatment Requirement (MHTR) service is here to support. MHTRs are set by courts as part of sentencing and are usually for people with complex health and social care needs which have contributed to their offending. The service provides assessments and treatment for service users to help with their underlying mental health needs while keeping them connected with their communities.
Each year, hundreds of people benefit from the support these services offer. By tackling mental health challenges at the root of offending behaviour and helping to reintegrate offenders back into society, the teams are working to support healthy communities and make a difference, together.
"It's changed my life" - service users share their experiences
These stories are from real service users* who have worked successfully with NHFT's Reconnect, Liaison and Diversion and MHTR teams. Told in the service user's own words, the stories illustrate how these services can make a real positive difference in helping people to turn their lives around in the community.
Matt's story - Liaison and Diversion service
"I understand my story now because Liaison and Diversion helped me to remember and explain what was going on for me when I was too unwell to even realise. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. They took the time to explain everything. My life is now stable. I've gone on to get my own flat, I've started a family and thankfully I've never been seen in the criminal justice system again since.
Kyle's story - Reconnect service
"When I first left prison I found it difficult. I relied on public transport, didn't know the area and couldn't use a phone. My Reconnect worker has been really helpful. I've been honest with her and trust her. I'm in full-time employment, have my own flat and even have a positive relationship. I don't think I would have been able to this without my support worker's help. I can't thank her enough for that."
Amy's story - MHTR service
"I was sentenced to an MHTR after I was arrested for drink-driving. I'd never been in trouble with the law before. I was struggling with chronic health problems and the team helped me to recognise how drinking alcohol helped me dull my pain and switch off negative thoughts. After the 6 months I'd stopped drinking and I can only thank the MHTR team for their support. It's changed my life."
* Not their real names