Guidance for nurses working in the criminal justice service launched

Published: 03 June 2009

The Royal College of Nursing is today (03 June 2009) launching guidance for nurses and health care assistants working in the criminal justice service.

Health and nursing care in the criminal justice service - guidance for nursing staff, provides up to date information on a wide range of health care issues that can arise in the criminal justice system, including long-term conditions, mental health, learning disabilities, paediatrics and maternal and infant health.

RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter says:

"When people enter the criminal justice system, they are often in poor physical and mental health. Nurses working in the criminal justice service do an excellent job in improving the health of these people, sometimes in difficult circumstances. By ensuring nursing staff have the most relevant, up-to-date information, we are providing the best chance of improving the health and wellbeing of the people in the system."

The guidance will be launched at the Criminal Justice Nursing Forum inaugural event to be held at RCN headquarters. This is a new RCN forum for nurses working in all areas of the Criminal Justice Service, including custody suites, prisons and immigration centres.

If you are an RCN member and are interested in joining the Nursing in Criminal Justices Service Forum, telephone RCN Direct on 0345 772 7100. You will receive a regular electronic newsletter and be able to network with fellow members on the CJS online community and discussion area.