4. SECURITY, DISCIPLINE AND CONTROL

Security

4.1 There had been no escapes from the establishment since 1993 and since our last report, only two adult prisoners had failed to return from home leave. Given the potentially volatile and impetuous nature of the young population, we were satisfied that appropriate security procedures and systems were in place and that they were working well. We were pleased to note also that risk assessments were being carried out prior to every escort and that staff were being properly briefed.

4.2 An SPS Security Audit had been carried out on the establishment in December 1996 and from our scrutiny of the subsequent report and the establishment’s response to it, we were satisfied that there was a high level of awareness of the establishment’s security needs, both at SPS Headquarters and amongst local management. A number of minor issues concerning security was, nevertheless, brought to the Governor’s attention during our visit.

Control

4.3 A high level of control was being exercised by staff throughout the establishment and all movement and communal activities were well supervised by staff. We did consider whether the level of supervision was, in fact, oppressive but concluded that the comparatively low number of assaults by remands on remands (see paragraph 2.7) was the result of that close supervision. The advantages of this level of control are obvious and we were reassured by the fact that the remands themselves told us that Longriggend was ‘a safe place’. In their experience, levels of bullying were much lower than in other establishments, including HMYOI Polmont. It was also clear that the Acting Governor was aware that a proper balance had to be struck between the levels of control being exercised and the benefits which can accrue from a relaxed regime. Nevertheless, we believe that monitoring should take place to ensure that the needs of security, control and the regime are being met in equal measure.

Orderly Room

4.4 The Orderly Room was normally conducted by the Acting Governor and from our observations, we were satisfied that procedures were in line with SPS policy. The hearings we witnessed were conducted in a fair and open manner and efforts were being made to ensure that natural justice was observed.

4.5 From our examination of the Orderly Room records, which were of a satisfactory standard, we noted that the majority of disciplinary reports were in connection with minor breaches of the rules and that disposals and awards were entirely appropriate. One minor matter concerning the withdrawal of privileges as a punishment was drawn to the attention of the Acting Governor who undertook to address the issue.

Separate Cells

4.6 A separate cells area, which consisted of eight cells, was located in the lower level of ‘A’ Hall. During our inspection, there were no prisoners located in this area which was reserved solely for the short-term location of particularly violent or destructive remands - it was not normally used to house remands undergoing punishment. The individual cells were basic in that they contained no more than a bed, a chamber pot and a bucket but they were in a good state of decoration which reflected their lack of use. Adjacent to those cells was an ablutions area which was also very clean.

Contingency Plans

4.7 The Contingency Plans for the establishment were examined and found to be satisfactory, though the Acting Governor agreed to act on a number of suggestions concerning the plans being made more user friendly and bringing some information up-to-date.

4.8 We noted that a Joint Liaison Contingency Plan had been prepared in collaboration with the emergency services and local authorities. The Institution is to be commended for the amount of work and liaison which went into the preparation of that plan which will stand the establishment in good stead in the event of emergency.

4.9 The emergency equipment store was examined and found to be appropriately equipped and ready for use.

Comment

4.10 Overall, we found that the key elements which constitute appropriate levels of security, discipline and control were in place and were operating satisfactorily. However, in addition to the formal systems, we were impressed by the quality of the relationship which existed between staff and remands/prisoners. The tangible results of such a positive interaction are difficult to measure but clearly have an important part to play in maintaining security, stability and consequently, the basic regime functions.

Gate

4.11 The Gatehouse was of comparatively modern construction and formed part of the main administration building which was completed in 1988. CCTV surveillance was available to enable staff to monitor the approaches to all access points, including visitors and vehicles entering and leaving the establishment, and all movement within the Gate area was being recorded in line with SPS security requirements.

4.12 Although the Gatehouse itself was clean, it was cluttered due to the number of security and communication systems which were being monitored and operated from the Gate as the establishment had no Operations or Control Room. However, all systems examined, including that for the issuing of keys, were satisfactory and staff displayed a sound knowledge of all procedures, including emergency responses.

4.13 We noted that a bid for the provision of a Control Room had been included in the establishment’s Strategic Plan but had not yet been successful due to a lack of financial resources.