Risk Assessment Ambulant Care (Call 2015-38/39(2))

Target group

Clients in ambulant forensic care whose risk of recidivism has to be estimated.

Risk assessment in the ambulatory field

Risk assessment instruments are frequently used in the clinical forensic context. Risk assessment and its translation into risk management is part of treatment according to the RNR model (Andrews & Bonta, 1990) which describes the three basic principles (Risk, Need, Responsiveness) for effective treatment. In the context of the Performance Indicators, the use of certain risk assessment instruments is mandatory. With regard to the mandatory use of risk assessment instruments in the ambulatory sector, the question was to what extent and in what areas this differed from the assessments carried out in the clinical setting. This question was central to the first survey (Call 2014-38).

The development of a core set

Subsequently, research was carried out to determine which factors are most closely related to recidivism within the ambulatory forensic population (Call 2014-39). For this purpose, a multi-method approach was chosen, in which the relevant literature was considered, data was analysed, and the field was consulted. 

From core set to risk assessment instrument

Based on the core set of items, a usability study in the ambulatory forensic field and close consultation with all the different partners, the researchers arrived at a risk assessment instrument specifically designed for deployment in the ambulatory forensic population (call 2015-39(2)). In the autumn of 2016, the instrument FARE (Forensic Ambulatory Risk Assessment) was tested for practical usefulness in several pilot institutions. The FARE has been developed as a generic instrument to identify and monitor the most important risk factors for the largest group of clients in outpatient forensic care to assess the risk of recidivism. In February 2017, a follow-up study was started to validate the instrument in the ambulatory field. In 2018, it will become part of the Performance Indicators for forensic care. The developers of the FARE now also have a website (Dutch only) with background information and current news.