Mental health groups have ‘failed to acknowledge’ risk of violence, says Mind chief

A leading mental health charity has criticized the sector for avoiding discussions about the rare but serious risk of violence linked to severe mental illness, attributing the silence to fears of increasing stigma. The chief executive of Mind argues that organizations have steered clear of the issue despite its significance, particularly as an inquiry into the Nottingham attacks prepares to conclude. Experts warn that this reluctance has left gaps in public understanding and safety measures. The admission comes as the sector faces growing scrutiny over how it balances support with addressing complex risks.

Sector has avoided issue because of stigma fears, expert warns ahead of closure of Nottingham attacks inquiryMental health organisations have “failed to acknowledge” the risk of violence from a minority of people with severe mental illnesses, the chief executive of Mind has said ahead of the closure of the inquiry into the Nottingham attacks.Dr Sarah Hughes, who has led mental health charity Mind for four years and has worked in the sector for almost four decades, said charities had shied away from addressing the risk of violence due to the fact it had increased the stigma and harassment around people with mental health conditions. Continue reading...