Enhancing participation in forensic child and adolescent mental health services: a rapid evidence assessment

Purpose This paper aims to explore models of youth participation within young people’s mental health services, examining barriers, facilitators and benefits, with a specific focus on their relevance to forensic child and adolescent mental health services (FCAMHS). Given the distinct complexity of FCAMHS, this review sought to consider how participation approaches might be applied and adapted. Design/methodology/approach A rapid evidence assessment (REA) was conducted to synthesise existing literature on participation with young people in mental health services. Multiple databases were searched, and 11 publications met the inclusion criteria. Studies were critically examined and their primary findings in relation to the current review’s investigation were synthesised. Findings Several models of involvement were identified, the most prevalent of which being shared decision-making (SDM). Barriers for participation were identified at the clinical, young person and organisational levels. Various techniques to facilitating user participation emerged, some of which directly addressed certain identified barriers. The literature also emphasised the benefits of user involvement in young people’s mental health care, both at an individual and organisational level. While these models offer useful frameworks, there application to FCAMHS requires careful adaptation. Originality/value This REA presents an important synthesis of participation models and their relevance for FCAMHS. Strengthening participation in FCAMHS requires trauma-informed relational practice, alongside organisational systems that enable young people to contribute meaningfully to care planning and service development. Future research should explore the development and evaluation of participation models specific to young people’s forensic mental health services.