Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 18
18
Deferred
Paragraph: 116
Set out clear evaluation methods for the new ACCT process's success in reducing self-harm.
Recommendation
The increasing level of self-harm in the female estate over the last decade is alarming and while the number of self-inflicted deaths is low, even one death is one too many. We recognise that the MoJ and HMPPS are working to address self-harm levels across the female estate and welcome the ongoing work to improve the Assessment, Care in Custody and Teamwork (ACCT) process, and roll out the Offender Management in Custody Model. We note that the revised ACCT process is still relatively new, and there is not yet an evidence base to determine whether it will contribute to reduced levels of self-harm. The Ministry of Justice should set out how it intends to evaluate and measure the success of the new ACCT process in comparison to the previous version of the process.
Government Response Summary
The government accepted the recommendation but responded by stating it concluded an internal review into the use of remand for own protection under the Bail Act 1976 and established a working group to implement reforms from the draft Mental Health Bill, addressing a different topic.
Paragraph Reference:
116
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
We accept this recommendation. MoJ has now concluded its internal review into the use of the power to remand defendants for their own protection under the Bail Act 1976. The Government has set out proposed reforms in the draft Mental Health Bill, published for pre-legislative scrutiny on 27th June 2022, which includes proposals to prevent the use of this power where the court’s sole concern is the defendant’s mental health. A cross-agency working group has been established to develop and deliver a clear plan for implementation and ensure this reform can be safely operationalised.