Forensic Governance Advisory Group minutes: 17 January 2025

Attendees and apologies

Present

• Ms Esther Roberton (Chair)
• Dr Ian Dewar
• Mr Jim Cannon

In attendance

• Ms Jennifer Brady
• Ms Danielle McLeary 

Items and actions

Introduction

The Chair welcomed everyone and noted that this meeting was an opportunity to meet online to discuss work to date and the upcoming stakeholder engagement ahead of the in-person meeting at the end of January. 

Routine updates

The Chair gave an update on meetings that have taken place over recent weeks, including visits to the 3 medium secure hospitals.

Overall, the meetings and visits to date have continued to be helpful and have brought to light some common themes in terms of the issues regarding governance of forensic mental health services. 

It was noted that the meetings have also been helpful in highlighting good practice and achievements across the sector.

Engagement plan

The group reviewed the engagement plan. The chair provided an update on upcoming meetings, including a visit to the State Hospital at the end of the month and visits to low secure units. 

Action 1: Stakeholder meetings and advisory group meetings to continue to be scheduled as part of the engagement plan.

Next meeting

The advisory group’s next meeting will take place in person on 29th January in St Andrew’s House. 

The group had a brief discussion on the way forward, and agreed to consider key milestones at the next meeting taking into consideration potential governance options.

The group agreed the meeting will provide the opportunity to review some anonymised patient case studies against governance options. 

Action 2: Officials to prepare agenda for in person meeting.

Any other busineess (AOB) 

The Chair drew the meeting to a close, thanking members for attendance.