1.1 An inspection of HMP Low Moss was carried out during the period 8-16 February 1998, the previous formal inspection having taken place in the spring of 1993. During the intervening period there had been regular and often unannounced visits to the establishment.

1.2 The 1998 inspection team numbered seven and included independent Healthcare and Educational Advisers, whilst an Addictions Worker from Aberdeen accompanied the Chief Inspector for several days.

1.3 The previous report had referred to a regime which was "as good as could be provided given the restraints of the accommodation available and the lengths of the sentences being served." However, on this occasion, as the end of the century approaches we were concerned that over a fifth of the annual adult male convicted admissions in the SPS continued to be housed in the only wooden-hutted prison which exists in Scotland.

1.4 Meanwhile, levels of violence were high and whilst dormitory accommodation may be one factor which has contributed to the lack of suicide attempts, the lay-out of these buildings was affecting violence levels. We therefore welcome the early introduction of the establishment’s proposed anti-bullying strategy.

1.5 We noted that drug misuse had increased, mirroring habits which had been burgeoning in the outside community, though we were heartened by the Alba House project which attempted to rid drug addicts of their habits via a route of total abstinence. We also commend the Governor, staff and prisoners on the creation of drug free areas, though it was our further conclusion that the arrangements for dealing with the majority of those prisoners who had drug problems, needed considerable improvement and expansion.

1.6 In reading the report, it should be borne in mind that the annual unit costs of HMP Low Moss are £12,700 per prisoner, which are by far the cheapest in the SPS.