Preventing deaths in detention of adults with mental health conditions
In 2015, the Commission published a report of our inquiry into non-natural deaths of adults with mental health conditions in prisons, police custody and psychiatric hospitals in the years 2010 to 2013.
Our analysis of the evidence showed that basic errors were being repeatedly made, and we developed a series of recommendations for relevant agencies in order to improve the situation.
This progress review assesses whether steps have been taken to implement these recommendations and prevent further avoidable deaths.
Latest research
Research Report 106: Non-natural deaths following prison and police custody
Following on from our preventing deaths in detention inquiry, the Commission's in-depth analysis of existing data and working practices across police and prison agencies revealed a very worrying picture of serious gaps in care after people are released from police custody or prison.
Download the reportCase studies
- Dial House Crisis Centre Leeds
- Dyfed Powys Police street triage
- Dorset street triage and liaison and diversion team
Photo courtesy of BSIP, Laurent/Science Photo Library
Quote on photo: "Failure to make progress in reducing the number of avoidable deaths (in detention) is a national stain that we should no longer tolerate in modern civilised society" Professor Swaran Singh EHRC Commissioner
Interview with Norman Lamb
Norman Lamb MP, Ex Minister of State for Care and Support and Liberal Democrat spokesperson on Health, speaks about the fact that too many people with mental health conditions are dying in detention.
Help and support
INQUEST provides free advice to people bereaved by a death in custody and detention.
The IPCC (Independent Police Complaints Commission) oversees the police complaints system in England and Wales.
The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) carries out independent investigations into deaths and complaints in custody.
If you would like further information about our inquiry please email the adult deaths inquiry team.