Report on HM Prison Noranside

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland 1998

3. SECURITY, DISCIPLINE AND CONTROL

Security and Control

3.1 A security audit had been carried out by the SPS Audit Team in the period 20-23 April 1998 and we have little to add to this. Security was low key and the emphasis was quite rightly being placed on prisoners adopting a responsible attitude to their sentence.

3.2 Appropriate control was being maintained on the movement and location of prisoners, whilst room searching was carried out on a regular basis in accordance with recognised procedures. Designated areas of the grounds were searched for contraband on an average of four occasions per month and in addition, a full external check of every building was carried out each evening. Rub down and strip searches were carried out on a random basis on those going to and returning from work or placements and home leaves. Community outplacements were also subject to separate search from time to time by prison staff. (See also paragraphs 6.32-35.) Arrangements for night patrols were assessed as being satisfactory.

3.3 We were pleased to note that an additional 17 hours of Operations staff time had become available as a result of duties in the canteen being undertaken by prisoners. This additional time was now being devoted to intelligence collation and analysis from a variety of sources.

3.4 During the 12 months prior to our inspection, out of 1,600 temporary releases, five prisoners had failed to return. Additionally, there had been two absconds, whilst 50 prisoners had been returned to closed conditions, the majority for reasons of drug misuse or involvement in drug activities. We were satisfied that all breaches of discipline had been properly reported.

3.5 There were no separate cell facilities, although there were two holding cells located between ‘A’ and ‘B’ Wings. Use of these cells was infrequent - 15 occasions in the 12 months prior to inspection. Their main use was as a temporary holding facility; for example, to hold those awaiting a return to closed conditions or those suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on return from home leave.

3.6 During the course of our inspection, there was evidence of inconsistency in the application of local rules. We recommend, therefore, that there should be a comprehensive review of all local rules which should be followed by the publication of unambiguous statements concerning the circumstances under which they will be applied.

Orderly Room

3.7 Orderly Room hearings were being held in accordance with the Prison (Scotland) Rules 1994, with hearings normally conducted by the Governor or his Deputy. More than half the reports were as a result of random Mandatory Drug Testing (MDT) but it was noted that disciplinary awards for failing a drugs test were not consistent with SPS guidelines. This is a matter which should now be addressed.

3.8 We suggest also that there should be clarification of the likely consequences for day paroles and home leaves, following any serious breaches of discipline.

Contingency Plans

3.9 We were impressed with the way in which the contingency plans had been updated and with their lay out. Copies were distributed appropriately and the staff to whom we spoke were familiar with the various procedures.

Gate

3.10 The Gate Office was situated on the ground floor of the Administration building and had a commanding view of the main drive to the establishment. It was staffed on a full-time basis.