3. Overview
• A process to identify, screen and assess individuals
who have vulnerabilities who come into contact with
the criminal justice system
• Criminal Justice diversion is not new (Reed report
1992). Liaison broadens this out (Bradley report 2009)
• National Programme of L&D commenced April 2014
(10 trial sites) and a further wave of trial sites started
in April 2015, of which South Yorkshire is one
• Business case for national roll-out of L&D with NHS
England as lead commissioner
4. Why is Liaison & Diversion Needed?
Vulnerability
Substance Misuse
Alcohol Misuse
Offending
Imprisonment
Social Isolation
7. National Operating Model for Liaison
& Diversion
• A service for all ages (children and adults)
• A service covering key points of the criminal
justice system (police stations and courts) with
an emphasis on early identification
• A 24/7 service
• Catering for all vulnerabilities (beyond just
mental health)
• Core team and extended team
8.
9. Liaison and Diversion
Stages of Operation
Identification
Criminal justice agencies, such as police and courts, are trained to identify signs that
an offender may have a learning disability, mental health issue, drug and substance
misuse or other vulnerability.
Screening
Specialist L&D practitioners with range of skills (eg, learning disability expertise,
children and young people) carry out screening to identify need and if they should be
referred onwards for further assessment, treatment or further support.
Assessment
L&D services can also complete or refer for further assessment including specialist
assessment.
Referral
Offenders needing further support and treatment will be referred into appropriate
services, such as learning disability services.
11. Liaison and Diversion
Points of Operation
• Community settings, including schools and restorative
justice, where police engage with children and young
people
• Police custody suites
• Police stations (or other prosecuting authorities) where
voluntary attendance occurs
• Magistrates’ courts
• Youth courts and referral order panels
• The Crown Court
• Probation to assist with the production of PSR
• Youth offending teams (YOTs)
