New Horizon Centre and HMS Prison to Implement Rehabilitation Programme for Inmates with Mental Illness
Kingstown, St. Kitts and Nevis - A New Approach to Addressing Crime
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has announced plans to implement a rehabilitation programme at the New Horizon Centre and Her Majesty’s Prison (HMS) to address the root cause of crime: mental illness.
Addressing Mental Illness in Prisons
According to officials, the programme will be designed to identify and treat inmates with mental health issues, providing them with the necessary support and care to reintegrate into society upon release. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance human capacity in identifying and treating mental illness.
Multi-Disciplinary Team to Provide Comprehensive Care
The programme, which is expected to start soon, will involve a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including:
- Psychiatrists
- Clinical psychologists
- Mental health nurse practitioners
- Case management/social workers
- Occupational therapists
- Auxiliary workers
This team will work together to provide comprehensive care and support to inmates with mental illness.
Intersectoral Collaboration for Effective Rehabilitation
The programme will also involve intersectoral collaboration between:
- Healthcare professionals
- Law enforcement officers
- Teachers
- Community workers
- Other stakeholders
to ensure that inmates receive comprehensive care and support.
Progress in Addressing Mental Illness in the Country
To date, the government has made significant strides in addressing mental illness in the country. The Mental Health Unit at the JNF Hospital has seen a significant increase in referrals from the police and community members, indicating a growing awareness of the importance of mental health.
Government Initiatives to Promote Mental Health Awareness
The government has also launched several initiatives to promote mental health awareness, including:
- Public education campaigns
- Training programmes for healthcare professionals and law enforcement officers
Commitment to Reducing Crime Rates and Creating a Safer Society
“We believe that by addressing mental illness, we can reduce crime rates and create a safer society for all,” said the government spokesperson. “We’re committed to providing our citizens with the necessary support and care to overcome their mental health issues and lead productive lives.”