Description of placement
The Adult Forensic Mental Health Service Directorate provides and assessment and treatment service for mentally abnormal offenders and others who require specialist forensic mental health interventions (including forensic psychotherapy) in Greater Manchester. We provide a fully range of in-patient (acute and long term, male and female, mental illness, dual diagnosis-mental illness and personality disorder, mental illness and substance misuse, assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and community care).

The unit works on a functional model with 5 functional areas. Women patients are managed by 2 of the seven clinical teams in a women’s only ward.

Trainees are in involved in the assessment and management of patients referred to the AFMHS directorate. Including in-patient and community care. Patients are cared for by multi-disciplinary teams lead by a consultant Forensic Psychiatrist and which includes SHO/NCCG psychiatrist, CPN, SW, Psychologist, OT and senior nurse.

Trainees have the opportunity to see patients for the preparation of medico-legal reports. Most of the patients are detained under the mental health act and trainees have an opportunity to gain experience and confidence in using the mental health act, writing reports for and attending MHRT and Managers reviews and of corresponding and liaison with the Home Office and agencies within the criminal justice system as well as colleagues in General Adult and rehabilitation psychiatry.

Trainees undertake two audit projects while on placement and have opportunity to be involved in management and developments within the Directorate. Trainees are able to take full advantage of their two sessions special interest and research and these can be provided within the directorate should the trainee so wish.

On call commitment: 1 in 9