Ex‐armed forces personnel in prison: Where do we stand?

Abstract: It is arguable that, as a society, we owe a debt to those who have served for their country in the armed forces. But what happens when some of this group end up in prison? Does this debt still stand? What do we know about this group? Could prison provide an opportunity for comprehensive service provision and better health outcomes and, alongside this, facilitate full inclusion and reintegration into society? In these circumstances, does prison have potential to reduce the likelihood of reoffending? To fill the knowledge gaps, a study is underway at the University of Manchester with the aim of assessing the mental health needs and pathways to offending of a large sample of ex-armed forces personnel in prison. For the first time, this will provide a solid evidence base upon which to develop recommendations regarding the mental health and social care service delivery for ex-armed forces personnel in prison. These recommendations will take into account their perspectives as well as those of clinical staff, combining what has been learnt from community service provision to date for this group. Based on our current, limited, knowledge about this group, a potential relationship exists between service in the armed forces, having involvement in the CJS and mental health difficulties. With this in mind, and in order to reduce the likelihood of offending in this group, offering ex-armed forces personnel in prison a better chance at improved mental health, quality of life and inclusion and reintegration into society is not only essential, but a debt we owe them.