Staff perspectives on obesity within a Welsh secure psychiatric inpatient setting

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to understand the perceived causes and consequences of weight gain within a secure psychiatric inpatient service in South Wales. Design/methodology/approach A purposive sample of 12 staff members were interviewed. These interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings Three themes were identified, these were increasing demand for integrated physical health care, unhealthy lifestyles and weight gain viewed as a symptom of poor mental health. Originality/value It is a unique insight into the factors that contribute to obesity in a Welsh secure unit and adds to current understanding of the challenges of improving weight management services within this sector.