Beyond the Offense: Understanding the Complex Needs of Offenders in Health & Social Care
Health and social care staff commonly tell us that supporting individuals who have a history of offending presents unique challenges. These challenges stem from the complex systems as well as multiple needs that often accompany a history of offending. It is well documented that people in contact with the criminal justice system can have high levels of mental health and substance use difficulties, histories of trauma and adversity, homelessness, and experience barriers in social inclusion. Individuals may also struggle with accessing education, employment, and stable housing, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.
To shed light on this important topic, we interviewed Sam Chu, a forensic psychologist and the author of our new CPD accredited course, " Working with people who commit offences."
Sam's extensive experience working with people with histories of offending, both in the probation service and private practice, has given her valuable insights into the complex needs of this population. "I've seen firsthand how individuals with offending histories often face stigma and marginalisation," Sam explains. "They may be excluded from services or have their risk misunderstood, leading to inadequate support."
Building Awareness and Skills
This strengths-based course addresses these challenges by providing staff with the tools to effectively support individuals who have committed offences. It covers a wide range of topics, including:
· Increased awareness of the criminal justice system, different types of offences, and the factors contributing to offending.
· How to undertake robust risk assessments, incorporating protective factors and strengths.
· Psychologically informed ways of supporting people who have committed offences, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing reoffending.
Sam's experience working in homeless services highlighted a significant gap in staff training in this area, particularly in relation to strengths-based risk assessment. The course aims to fill this gap, equipping staff with the skills to contextualise risk and develop helpful, proactive risk management plans.
Tackling Challenges
Staff working with people who commit offences face their own set of challenges, including managing their emotional reactions, overcoming biases, navigating systemic barriers and balancing complex risk assessments. This course provides practical tools and strategies to address these challenges, including the importance of clinical supervision and the development of Psychologically Informed Environments.
Sam's top tip for staff is to always try to see the person as separate from their offence. This approach fosters a more positive and supportive relationship, allowing individuals to move beyond their past and achieve their full potential.
Empowering Change
By equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to work effectively with people who commit offences, this course aims to create a more compassionate and inclusive environment for all. It empowers staff to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with offending histories by understanding the root causes of their behaviour, developing person-centred support plans, and fostering a sense of hope and possibility.
The course also emphasises the importance of collaboration between health and social care providers, the criminal justice system, and other relevant stakeholders. By working together, we can create a more seamless and effective support network for individuals with offending histories, ultimately leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.
Ready to learn more?
Enrol in our new CPD accredited course, Working with people who commit offences, and gain the skills you need to make a positive impact.
