ABSTRACT
Care in the community has a relatively short, but difficult history in England and Wales. This chapter explores how offenders with mental health problems are supervised, punished and cared for in the community. The chapter begins with a brief overview of the history of mental health care in the community before turning to outline the key services available to, and responsible for, those who offend, have mental disorder and reside in the community. Specific issues surrounding punishment, treatment and supervision will be explored through closer examination of community mental health teams (CMHTs), community treatment orders (CTOs) and Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA). Decisions about discharge and release from secure settings along with the related challenges involved with providing safe aftercare and supervision in the community, will also be considered. Here, we highlight the importance of continuity of care, inter-agency communication and the proper provision of services.. While criticisms have often been made about the inadequacy of community care for those with mental disorder, it is important to remember that the community can offer important opportunities for both preventive and rehabilitative work if it is properly resourced.
