Talk

Broadmoor and Beyond: The history of high security hospitals

9 October 2025
18:00-19:30
Free to all

A talk on the history of high security hospitals, from Broadmoor to modern secure units.

The secure hospital system emerged after the trial of James Hadfield who, in 1800, attempted to assassinate the king. Hadfield was clearly unwell, but the courts did not want to release him as ‘not guilty by reason of insanity’. This led to the creation of a new ‘criminal lunatic’ wing at Bethlem Hospital. In 1863, this was replaced with the new Broadmoor Hospital.

This talk by historian Jade Shepherd explores the history of these hospitals, from Broadmoor to modern secure units.

This event is open to all and takes place in person only. It will be BSL translated.

If you have any questions or accessibility needs, please contact us on rcn.library@rcn.org.uk or 0345 337 3368.

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Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum

Royal College Of Nursing, 20 Cavendish Square, London, W1G 0RN
0345 337 3368

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