James Ward1, Di Bailey. 1. SASS, Durham University, Durham, UK. james.ward@durham.ac.uk
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Self-harm in custody is a well-researched phenomenon. This is particularly true for women in prison who demonstrate disproportionately high rates of self-harm. Despite the growing body of prison research, there has been a lack of service user involvement (SUI). Aims To outline the first use of SUI in a custodial setting in developing care pathways for self-harm. METHODOLOGY: A participatory action research approach was used to engage women prisoners and staff. RESULTS: Participants were able to identify strengths and weaknesses of current care pathways and offer suggestions for service development based upon their experience of receiving and delivering care. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that despite participatory approaches being in their infancy in prisons the engagement of service users when aimed at effecting positive change can be successful.
BACKGROUND: Self-harm in custody is a well-researched phenomenon. This is particularly true for women in prison who demonstrate disproportionately high rates of self-harm. Despite the growing body of prison research, there has been a lack of service user involvement (SUI). Aims To outline the first use of SUI in a custodial setting in developing care pathways for self-harm. METHODOLOGY: A participatory action research approach was used to engage women prisoners and staff. RESULTS:Participants were able to identify strengths and weaknesses of current care pathways and offer suggestions for service development based upon their experience of receiving and delivering care. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that despite participatory approaches being in their infancy in prisons the engagement of service users when aimed at effecting positive change can be successful.