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Abstract

Mental health among prisoners is an ongoing worldwide problem which seeks for attention and recognition. This literature review-based dissertation explores the increasing issues surrounding mental health within UK prisons, highlighting the profound impact of the challenges faced by the system regarding the well-being of incarcerated individuals. Overcrowding, lack of adequate staff and an approach to incarceration that is punitive rather than rehabilitative negatively impact the inadequate mental health treatment provided by these punitive institutions. In political debate and policy decisions, security sometimes sequences precedence over health, which leaves prisoners undergoing several mental health problems without providing the required assistance. The dissertation also examines the impact of these impediments, such as high rates of suicide and self-harm, and provides recommendations for future improvements that will boost mental health services, reduce the risk of re-offending, and support humane treatment in the criminal justice system. A widespread approach to tackling the mental health increase in UK prisons requires adjustments to funding, inter-agency collaboration and reform inspiration from advanced countries such as Norway and Iceland, as well as improving existing knowledge around the failing system of poorer countries like Cyprus, Greece, Romania and Nigeria.

Course: Forensic Investigation - MSc - P3494FTC

Date Deposited: 2024-11-11

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14510.html