Exploring the experience of a strengths-based approach within a forensic service

As part of an NHS England pilot scheme, Specialist Community Forensic Teams were developed aiming to support service users’ transition of care from secure forensic inpatient settings to living in the community. This study explored the experiences of service users, carers, health professionals and specialist residential accommodation providers in relation to one of these teams. The Good Lives Model was adapted by the team to inform formulation and intervention. Nineteen participants completed a mixed-methods survey. Data were processed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings indicate that the use of a strengths-based model within a forensic setting was perceived by stakeholders as providing an experience of relational security and hopefulness. Most stakeholders surveyed endorsed survey items indicative of a positive experience of the service. The findings from this study suggest that GLM is an acceptable model to stakeholders for formulating the needs and strengths of service users in planning their transition from residing in secure settings to living in the community.