Diversion at the point of arrest: mentally disordered people and contact with the police

Abstract

Abstract A 'Diversion at the Point of Arrest' scheme was introduced in South Birmingham in 1992. An initial evaluation of the first 12 months demonstrated its apparent effectiveness. This paper provides a further description of all referrals to the substantive service for the 4-year period 1 November 1993 to 31 October 1997. There were 492 referrals of 420 individuals during the study period. The majority of those assessed were single, unemployed Caucasian males who were living alone. Of these, 95% were from Birmingham or the surrounding areas. The most frequent diagnosis made was schizophrenia, followed by drug or alcohol dependence and neuroses. Only 16 individuals disclosed a criminal history but 67% had had previous contact with psychiatric services. The majority of offences committed by those referred were public order or acquisitive, or involved destruction of property. This scheme has been successful in preventing some mentally disordered individuals being inappropriately taken into custody and has identified others who might require further assessment at a later stage. It has also fostered lasting and productive links between psychiatric services, the police and other agencies. Keywords: Mentally Disordered IndividualsDiversion SchemesInter-AGENCY Co-OPERATION