13. General Assessment

13.1 Concluding remarks in the previous formal inspection report had stated that there was still much to be done at the prison, but "at least the ship was under way and being steered in the right direction" and on this latest inspection our assessment was that the Governor had been working hard to keep the establishment on an even keel. A number of our previous Recommendations and Points of Note had been put into effect and had been implemented within the context of the massive changes which had been taking place across the SPS in recent years - for example, the implementation of an extensive organisational review, the civilianisation of a number of posts, the introduction of computerisation programmes and a large variety of other initiatives, all of which were continuing to place considerable extra pressure on management and staff.

13.2 We were pleased to note that substantial improvements to the accommodation areas had begun after many years of neglect, though the closure of 'D' Hall had taken place at much the same time as prisoner numbers had begun to rise. This was of course part of a national trend which had continued and both those factors had given rise to record levels of overcrowding. It had, therefore, been decided to postpone the rolling refurbishment programme of other Halls, Management having had no other option but to accept a lengthier, piece-meal approach. The Governor was still optimistic about numbers steadying but we remain uneasy, worrying that population difficulties such as these could become the status quo, especially when the proposed changes to remission begin to take effect. However, some of the funds ear-marked for the original programme could be transferred - for example, an earlier start should be made to the construction of new segregation cells, which for the last 16 years have been described as unacceptable.

13.3 Despite the understandable pressures created by 50% overcrowding, we were still disappointed by the standard of cells, more especially in 'C' Hall where there was also a very unwieldy mix of prisoner groups, including remands. Basic conditions there could only be described as disgraceful and it is also worth noting that Perth is currently the only prison where LTPs are regularly being required to double up.

13.4 Our previous report had recommended a review of accommodation standards and though we were advised that there had been a major redecoration programme 18 months prior to our inspection, we saw little, if any, evidence of this. The present situation demonstrates a lack of care and degrades convicted and unconvicted prisoners alike. A sustained drive to ensure that all areas of the prison are kept clean by prisoners is also needed.

13.5 We had concerns about some aspects of general security and these have been expressed in a letter to the Chief Executive, though we understand that those same issues have also been echoed in a recent SPS security audit. Plans are meanwhile in hand to upgrade perimeter security, though prison fabric of this age suffers from inherent problems which are likely to increase as the years go by. Unless there is substantial investment, the category 'A' status of the prison might even be challenged in the longer term.

13.6 Over the last 46 months there had been ten suicides, two alleged murders and four other deaths in custody. Separately, we were greatly concerned about healthcare standards and intend returning later this year to inspect and assess the impact of new arrangements which had just been put in place prior to inspection. Meanwhile, a rise in the number of assaults had given rise to some anxieties being reflected in the media and which had followed a major key compromise and an average of 20 fires per year, most of which were invariably due to arson. Other recent incidents had included a 'burrowing' escape attempt, followed by a brief hostage taking incident, all of which had helped convey an image of turbulence, though the prison has suffered from negative images before. We were, however, greatly reassured by the measures which the Governor had instituted in order to cut down on prisoner violence and drug abuse, with some successes having recently been achieved as a result of good intelligence work.

13.7 Arrangements for the induction of prisoners were assessed as being above average, as were the availability and content of education programmes. Other improvements noted since the last inspection included a much higher standard of catering, for which we commend the staff involved. Similarly we were impressed with the enthusiasm found amongst PE staff and we were pleased with the efforts which had been made to enhance visiting arrangements and to embark on new initiatives involving the FCDOs. We were also impressed with the approach which Management had adopted towards the treatment of remand prisoners - for example, the positive encouragement for them to attend education classes.

13.8 The lack of any coherent sentence planning arrangements was disappointing, though this is a problem which is being addressed at national level. The range and type of work available in the industrial worksheds could only be described as patchy and large numbers were reporting sick or generally adopting an indifferent approach towards employment, which was also contributing to a large number of misconduct reports. Correspondingly, the approach on VT courses and in the craftshops was much more positive and productive.

13.9 Some offending behaviour programmes were being run but these needed to be much more comprehensive; their frequency also ought to be improved if the required impact on crime reduction is to be achieved. Similarly, we thought that there were not nearly enough drug programmes and that a lack of proper drug free areas was a major limitation to the commendable efforts which were being made on rehabilitation and detoxification courses. We have also suggested that a full time addictions worker be appointed soon. Preparation for release arrangements lacked any substance, coordination or multi-disciplinary approach and should also include more alcohol and drug counselling courses at a very final stage, as these would benefit the community at large by also contributing to a possible reduction in some repeat offences.

13.10 We were relieved and gratified to note that the current Management team was experienced, enthusiastic and communicating well; a particularly good working relationship also existed between the Governor and the new Deputy. Low staff sickness levels were another indicator of excellent management focus, good communications and reasonable morale. In turn, staff/prisoner relationships seemed good though there were indications of an indulgent approach in some areas.

13.11 Finally, we should say that this report has proved to be one of the most difficult in recent years to prepare, which is perhaps not surprising given that it is a complex establishment which occupies a central role in the SPS.

13.12 Recommendations and Points of Note are attached, most of which have already been brought to the attention of Chief Executive, the Area Director and the prison Management Team.