A core function of mental health and learning disability services is to assess the treatment and care needs of people presenting to them.
An integral part of such an assessment is the consideration of risks posed by some people with a mental disorder to either themselves or others.
Understanding the level of risk that an individual may present forms part of his/her overall assessment, nevertheless it is an integral part of formulating an appropriate care package.
Promoting Quality Care: Good Practice Guidance on the Assessment and Management of Risk in Mental Health and Learning Disability document