Shared decision making in assessment and management of risk with individuals living with severe mental illness: a career and research programme development proposal

In mental health services, assessing and managing risk is important in providing safe and effective care. These processes should involve collaboration and Shared Decision-Making (SDM) with the service user and, if appropriate, their carers. However, research shows that service users are often unaware that a Risk Assessment (RA) has taken place or what their Risk Management (RM) plan includes. A more collaborative approach could improve therapeutic alliance and outcomes for people with severe mental health problems, especially in acute settings, but little evidence is available to support this. My PhD explored mental health professionals, and service users perceived barriers and enablers to SDM in RA and RM. I wish to use this fellowship to advance this programme, develop my career, and apply for further funding. The aim of the proposal is to: (1) publish the final two studies of my PhD thesis; (2) design and conduct two new studies that will contribute to the development of an intervention; (3) attend training; (4) collaborate with a lived experience advisory group on new studies and on future plans; (5) prepare fellowship applications for developing and testing a complex intervention to enhance SDM in RA and RM for individuals with severe mental illness.