A study published in December 2025 examined the characteristics of users in secure units within the social care sector for mental health and intellectual disabilities. Researchers surveyed six institutions and analyzed data from 2023. The study found that 64% of users were male, with an average age of 54.3 years. A significant majority, 98%, were admitted involuntarily, and 67% were deprived of their legal capacity. Most users were admitted after time in a psychiatric hospital (44%) or open units (34%), with a smaller percentage coming from the community (10%). The average length of stay in secure units was 64.01 months. During their time in these units, 14% were readmitted to psychiatric hospitals. Only 17% of users were discharged, most commonly to the open unit of the same institution (79%). The findings reveal high rates of involuntary admissions and lengthy stays, raising concerns over public health and human rights. The study suggests a need to improve discharge practices and enhance community-based support rather than expanding institutional capacities.