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Risk management tool gets approval |
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Thursday, 14 February 2008 |
The efficacy of a controversial risk assessment tool has been officially validated by a new report commissioned by the Risk Management Authority.
Newcastle University academic Professor Don Grubin has concluded that Risk Matrix 2000 is suitable for use in Scotland, but only as one part of an assessment process.
The report says the Risk Matrix 2000 tool is suitable for use with sex offenders and some of those involved in violent crime with the strict proviso that it cannot be the sole determinant of an offender’s mental condition or likelihood of committing more crimes.
The Risk Matrix 2000 is a statistically-derived risk classification process and draws on simple factual information relating to an offender’s past history to help build a picture of their likelihood of re-offending. It requires ongoing assessments to ensure that changing circumstances are recorded and analysed in order to properly assess the danger posed by an individual at any given time.
The tool is already used by social workers and other professionals involved in determining the suitability of various offenders for release and monitoring their behaviours and potential for harm in the community once released from prison.
However there have been concerns that some in the field have been making decisions on the suitability of offenders for release or treatment on the results of Risk Matrix assessments alone.
Professor Grubin said:
“Risk Matrix 2000 is comprised of two scales, Risk Matrix Sex and Risk Matrix Violence, which provide an estimate of the long-term likelihood of reconviction for a sexual or non-sexual offence; individuals are assigned accordingly to the various risk categories (Low, Medium, High and Very High). The tool is probably best used viewed as a screening tool, identifying individuals who require further assessment. Other approaches will then be necessary to determine current, as apposed to long term risk. Risk Matrix 2000 should be seen as the first step in an assessment process, not a substitute for the assessment process itself…it must be been seen as part of a wider package.”
Professor Roisin Hall, Chief Executive of the RMA continued:
“The overall aim of this project was to establish whether Risk Matrix 2000 can contribute to the systematic risk assessment and management of offenders in Scotland, and if so, to what extent. It is important to note that whilst we will never entirely eliminate risk, the RMA is working to assist agencies, organisations and individuals within the Scottish criminal justice system to effectively manage high risk offenders and ultimately work towards a safer Scotland.”
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