An assessment of the security, dependency and treatment needs of all patients in secure services in a UK health region

Previous studies have revealed discrepancies between patients' security needs and security provision. The aim of the current study was to establish the needs of a UK health region's patients in secure care in four domains: security, dependency, 'political' and treatment. Their psychiatrists were asked to complete on each patient a questionnaire designed for the study. The results showed that 261 patients (79%) were placed at a level of security inappropriate to their needs. Factors associated with inappropriate placement are discussed and possible developments in service provision are outlined.