Understanding Liaison and Diversion Services
Liaison and Diversion (L&D) services represent a crucial intersection between the criminal justice system and mental health support in the UK. These services aim to identify, assess, and refer people with vulnerabilities, including those with mental health issues, learning disabilities, substance misuse problems, and other health needs, at their first point of contact with the criminal justice system. This can occur at various stages, from arrest to court appearances.
The Purpose of L&D Services
The primary goal of L&D services is to divert individuals away from the criminal justice system, when appropriate, and direct them towards the healthcare or support services they need. This approach recognises that many people enter the criminal justice system because of unmet health and social care needs. By addressing these needs early on, L&D services not only support the individual but also benefit the wider community by reducing reoffending rates and improving public health and safety.
Referral to Liaison and Diversion Services
Referrals to L&D services can come from various sources within the criminal justice system, highlighting the collaborative approach these services take in supporting individuals with vulnerabilities. Key referral sources include:
- Police: Officers may refer individuals at the point of arrest or during custody if they identify potential mental health issues, learning disabilities, or other vulnerabilities.
- Magistrates’ courts: Legal advisors, probation officers, or the judiciary can refer individuals appearing in court who may benefit from support and intervention.
- Crown Courts: Similar to magistrates’ courts, individuals can also be referred by court staff or the judiciary during appearances in Crown Courts.
- Youth Offending Teams (YOTs): For young people involved in or at risk of entering the criminal justice system, YOTs play a crucial role in making referrals to L&D services.
- Prison Services: Individuals within the prison system showing signs of vulnerabilities can be referred for assessment and support, aiming for better reintegration upon release.
- Self or Family Referral: In some cases, individuals or their families can also initiate contact with L&D services, seeking support and assessment.
This diverse network of referral sources ensures that L&D services are accessible at multiple points within the criminal justice pathway, allowing for early intervention and support for those who need it the most.
Who Are L&D Services For?
L&D services are designed to support children, young people, and adults who come into contact with the criminal justice system and are identified as having potential health-related vulnerabilities, including :
- Mental health conditions
- Learning disabilities
- Substance misuse issues
- Physical health needs
How Do L&D Services Work?
- Identification and Assessment: The process begins when someone enters the criminal justice system. Trained L&D staff conduct initial screenings and assessments to identify any vulnerabilities.
- Referral: If vulnerabilities are identified, the individual is referred to the appropriate health or social care services. This can include mental health services, substance misuse services, or social care agencies.
- Support and Follow-Up: L&D staff may provide ongoing support to ensure the individual engages with the referred services. They also work closely with criminal justice professionals to inform decisions about charging and prosecution, taking into account the individual’s health and social needs.
The Impact of L&D Services
The impact of L&D services extends beyond the immediate support for the individual. These services contribute to:
- Reduced Reoffending: By addressing the underlying causes of criminal behaviour, L&D services can help reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
- Improved Mental Health Outcomes: Early intervention can lead to better mental health outcomes for individuals, reducing the strain on emergency and inpatient services.
- Enhanced Public Health and Safety: By supporting vulnerable individuals, L&D services contribute to the overall health and safety of the community.
Challenges and Opportunities
While L&D services have shown positive outcomes, they also face challenges such as ensuring consistent access across different regions and maintaining effective collaboration among health, social care, and criminal justice sectors. The ongoing evolution of L&D services includes enhancing training for staff, improving data sharing among agencies, and expanding the reach of services to ensure that more people can benefit from them.