Equally Safe - forensic medical services: consultation analysis

Conclusions

42. A range of informed organisational and individual respondents participated in the consultation. Many of the respondents had been closely engaged with the development of the FMS Act.

43. Just over half of respondents (32) agreed that the retention period should be 26 months. Although 26 of the 63 respondents disagreed with this timeframe there was no consensus as to what a longer or shorter retention period should be.

44. Respondents shared their views and suggestions about what should be taken into account when setting the retention period and the care and clarity needed when informing people what this will be. Although no respondents suggested that further impact assessments were required to be published views were expressed about the need for inclusive services and accessible information.

45. The findings from the consultation provide a useful evidence base for the Scottish Government to draw upon. Responses will be used in the production of regulations to set the national retention period (which will be approved by the Scottish Parliament). The views expressed are also relevant to the development of information materials that the CMO Taskforce is producing to ensure that individuals know what the retention period means for them.

46. The Scottish Government would like to thank all those who took the time to respond to the consultation and share their views, insights and experiences on this important matter.