An Evaluation of the Impact of a Social Inclusion Programme on Occupational Functioning for Forensic Service Users

Abstract

Introduction: The rehabilitation of forensic service users with serious mental illness is an emerging specialism in occupational therapy. However, there is little evidence to support the development of this role. Government white papers and guidelines recommend a rehabilitation process that involves a social inclusion agenda and the literature supports the role of the occupational therapist in its provision. This study was designed to provide evidence for, and to guide, the practice of forensic occupational therapists working in a rehabilitation setting. Method: The study compared Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool (MOHOST) scores of forensic service users who received treatment as usual and participated in a social inclusion programme (n = 24) with the scores of those who received treatment as usual (n = 19) only. Results: Although no difference was found in MOHOST scores between the two groups before intervention (p>0.05 at 0.493), a significant difference in scores was found in the intervention group post-intervention (p<0.05 at 0.006). This difference is hypothesised to represent change in occupational functioning and evidence of successful treatment outcomes. Conclusion: The study concluded that forensic service users could benefit from occupational therapy programmes that include activities to promote social inclusion.