Reflecting on the delivery of a structured alcohol and drug group in a medium‐secure forensic unit
Abstract
Purpose
This review aims to discuss the planning, implementation and evaluation of a 24‐session alcohol and drug group for eight service users, based on the Behavioural Treatment for Substance Abuse in Severe and Persistent Mental Illness Model (BTSAS), delivered by a group of multi‐disciplinary staff in a medium secure forensic setting.
Design/methodology/approach
Evaluation tools were completed pre‐ and post‐group to measure attendee outcomes and perceptions of their group experience.
Findings
The group programme was well received, although adaptations to meet specific medium‐secure needs will be required for future group work.
Practical implications
The development and implementation of the group has raised awareness within the medium‐secure setting, facilitating a less punitive and more collaborative response.
Originality/value
The paper highlights interventions to support the medium‐secure setting to develop a more pragmatic bespoke response to meet alcohol and drug needs.
Keywords
Citation
Edwards, R., Guy, R., Bartholomew, M. and Buckland, R. (2011), "Reflecting on the delivery of a structured alcohol and drug group in a medium‐secure forensic unit", Advances in Dual Diagnosis, Vol. 4 No. 4, pp. 180-189. https://doi.org/10.1108/17570971111197193
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited