In a recent interview, Cristina Neves from the CEP Expert Groups on Mental Health spoke with Charlie Brooker and Coral Sirdifield, co-authors of the influential paper Best Practice in Working with People with Mental Health Problems on Probation. Their discussion provided powerful insights into the challenges and opportunities of addressing mental health within probation services.

Charlie and Coral emphasised that probation presents a unique opportunity to engage individuals who might otherwise not access mental health support. However, they also highlighted the gap between the needs of those on probation and the capacity of mainstream mental health services, particularly when dealing with mandated clients who often show low motivation for treatment.

A key takeaway from their research is the importance of stronger collaboration between mental health and justice sectors, aiming to tailor services for this complex population. They also discussed the pressing need for specialised training for probation officers and explored the potential of peer support and mentoring to foster better outcomes.

As we approach the Workshop on Mental Health Importance: Supporting Treatment Processes in Probation in Barcelona on 26-27 November 2024, these insights will be critical in shaping conversations on how to enhance support systems and reduce reoffending through targeted mental health interventions.