News Release, 15 September 2006
In response to the Government’s Review of Homicides by People with Severe Mental Illness, Kathryn Hill, Director of Mental Health Programmes at the Mental Health Foundation said:
“Despite what society is led to believe people with mental health problems actually pose very little danger to the public. The evidence clearly shows that over 90 per cent of all homicides are committed by members of the public with no record of mental ill health. Drugs and alcohol are a much bigger factor in homicides than mental illness.
“We can’t fairly discuss safety without acknowledgment of the fact that people with mental health problems are much more often the victims of violent crime and abuse both on the street and in inpatient settings. The National Patient Safety Agency’s recent report ‘With safety in mind’ highlights the many safety issues experienced by patients in mental health services.
“Greater recognition is needed by the Government that safety is not just about public safety. The risk that people with mental health problems pose to the public is small and continual attack of this vulnerable group only adds to the stigma and prejudice.”
Ends
Read more about the Government's Review of Homicides by Patients with Severe Mental Illness (on the NIMHE website)
Return to news releases 2006
Notes to editors
For further information and interview requests contact please contact the Press Office on 020 7803 1128 / 1130 or email the press office
The Mental Health Foundation is the leading UK charity working to improve services for both people with mental health problems and people with learning disabilities. It is the only charity to fund and work with both service users and providers and plays an important role in funding research and new approaches to prevention, treatment and care. The Foundation’s work includes allocating grants for research and community projects; contributing to the public debate; educating policy makers and healthcare professionals and striving to reduce the stigma attached to mental illness.
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