Service-user involvement in forensic mental health care research: Areas to consider when developing a collaborative study

BACKGROUND: Although service-users are increasingly involved in the conduct of research in mental health settings, involvement in forensic mental health settings is limited. AIMS: This paper looks at the factors perceived by professionals and service-users as important for developing collaborative research in forensic mental health settings. METHOD: Following a collaborative research project undertaken in three forensic mental health units, the researchers involved in the project (professionals and service-users) reviewed factors perceived as important for developing service-user research in secure settings. RESULTS: Three broad themes were identified. The main issues considered within these themes were detailed. CONCLUSIONS: Service-users in forensic mental health settings are able to have full involvement in research.