1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 An inspection of HMP Aberdeen was carried out during the period 2-6 November 1997, the previous formal examination having taken place in the late summer of 1993. During the intervening period there had been regular unannounced visits to the establishment.

1.2 The 1997 inspection team numbered nine and included independent Healthcare and Educational Advisers. The Governor of HMP Penninghame also attended as a guest inspector and an Addictions Adviser from Cambridge accompanied the Chief Inspector for two days.

1.3 The previous report had presented a picture of a caring, well run establishment which had a relaxed atmosphere and good morale among both staff and prisoners; in these respects we are pleased to report that this position had been maintained. We were, however, concerned by a lack of investment in the fabric of the prison and a worrying rise in the incidence of overcrowding, a trend which shows every indication of continuing.

1.4 Sadly and in common with a trend which is now becoming well established at many other local prisons, the suicide rate had increased in recent times. In parallel, drug misuse had increased thus mirroring habits which had recently been growing in the local community. Nevertheless, we were much heartened by the Governor’s robust drug enforcement policies and by his plans for a much invigorated drug rehabilitation programme.

1.5 We were especially impressed by the extremely low levels of staff sickness. Additionally, we wish to draw particular attention to the staff training system which appeared to be effective and is highlighted later in this report as an area of best practice.