The Effect of a Patient Homicide on Clinicians

There is a growing body of evidence about the significant impact the homicide by a patient can have on clinicians. This impact can make open hearted clinical engagement with patients more difficult. There is little systemic recognition of the effect of this experience which can lead to a range of outcomes for individuals and organisations including: emotional distress, mental health problems, career change, early retirement, media interest and professional sanctions,  

This conference is the first to focus on this issue and aims to raise awareness and develop appropriate responses to these kinds of traumatic events. 

We will share knowledge and provide fora for discussion with the intention of promoting understanding. We hope this conference will contribute to a change in culture where instead of feeling isolated, clinicians can feel supported by a healthier and more compassionate mental health system. 

This conference has been organised by the RCPsych’s Working Group on the Effect of Suicide and Homicide on Clinicians.

This thought-provoking programme will be opened by Dr Adrian James and will be chaired by Dr Jo O’Reilly.  Speakers include:

Prof Gill Mezey

Dr Mark Salter

Dr Gwen Adshead

Prof Helen Killaspy

Dr Phillipa Greenfield

Dr Rachel Gibbons

Dr Nisha Shah

The event will take place at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, 21 Prescot Street, London E1 8BB. You can view directions and a map to help you plan your journey.

The Citymapper website/app can help you plan your route within London, giving the best walking, cycling, bus and tube routes available. Use postcode E1 8BB as your destination.