Healthcare
Last updated: 16 January 2026

DSPD

Dangerous and Severe Personality Disorder - a clinical and administrative category for individuals with severe personality disorders who pose a significant risk of serious harm to others. Specialist units exist within the prison and secure hospital system to manage and treat these individuals.

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OPD

Offender Personality Disorder pathway - a joint NHS and HMPPS initiative providing specialist services for offenders with personality disorders who pose a high risk of harm. Includes prison-based treatment and community support.

Therapeutic Community

A structured group-based approach to treating personality disorders and substance misuse, where the community itself is the primary therapeutic tool. Prisoners participate in running the community and take responsibility for each other.

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