Report on HM Prison Noranside

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland 1998

13. GENERAL ASSESSMENT

13.1 Our inspection had taken place just over a year after a change of Governor. We were satisfied that the improvements and changes identified during our previous inspection had been addressed with undiminished vigour and commitment, thereby ensuring that the establishment continued to be a good example of a well ordered, purposeful and relaxed open prison. Noranside has a long history of providing testing and rehabilitative opportunities for prisoners and we recognise that its regime represents an additional and considerable effort by the SPS to help reduce future crime on behalf of the public. In conjunction with the two other open prisons, it also acts as a powerful incentive for prisoners as they approach the end of their sentence.

13.2 We found much at Noranside to support our view that open prisons are an effective option in managing prisoners. Nevertheless, we were concerned that the maximum number of places was not always being taken up by other establishments and as a result, a number of prisoners - and therefore communities throughout Scotland - were missing out on a first class preparation for release and return to the community. Prisoners at Noranside worked long hours and efforts to reinforce the work ethic at this stage in their sentence is something of which we believe the public will approve.

13.3 We were, however, disappointed that some individuals were seeing fit to continue with drug misuse, despite the many other excellent opportunities on offer. Not only are they committing offences but we believe they are also letting themselves, their families and other prisoners down. We have, therefore, suggested a much tougher policy which we believe ought to be implemented forthwith.

13.4 We were impressed by the commitment being shown by management and staff; that said, we felt that some of the more petty rules that were in operation could be relaxed without compromising security. Also a little more imagination over recreation and week-end activities would not go amiss.

13.5 The SPS can be justifiably proud that it has such an excellent regime to offer prisoners at the end of their sentence. When viewed in conjunction with the innovative approach which exists at the National Induction Centre for LTPs at the very beginning of their time in prison, this provides much encouragement for the future.