HMIP Annual Report 1997-98

1. Introduction

SPS Mission Statement

‘To keep in Custody those committed by the Courts: to maintain good order in each prison: to care for prisoners with humanity and to provide prisoners with a range of opportunities to exercise personal responsibility and to prepare for release’.

1.1 The last annual report focused on four main problems which were confronting the SPS and many of its prisoners. We are again reporting on these same issues, which are - overcrowding, drug abuse, suicide, and the lack of purposeful activity at some locations. A chapter on violence has also been included as serious assaults amongst prisoners have been growing in recent years.

1.2 Many of these problems impact on remand or unconvicted prisoners who represent approximately one-sixth of the daily population. The question of their care is highlighted throughout this report, especially as there are no SPS performance measures which relate to these individuals. There ought to be key performance indicators for remands though we have been much encouraged by the recent response of some Governors to the plight of these prisoners. For example, at Perth, remand prisoners are now being encouraged to attend education and their Hall was given priority for decoration. At Cornton Vale, there is increasing emphasis on meaningful out of cell activity for female remands, whilst we are delighted to learn that at Barlinnie, the Governor intends to make the Remand Hall his next priority for refurbishment, ahead of the needs of the convicted population.

1.3 During the year there have been many significant developments, including the refurbishment of several accommodation Halls at Barlinnie and Perth. The elimination of slopping out and the introduction of a much more civilised atmosphere in these Halls has brought about palpable changes for the better in staff/prisoner relationships. Steady progress was noted during the intermediate inspections of Cornton Vale and Glenochil as well as at a number of other locations. Though the formal reports for Edinburgh, Perth and Barlinnie had been critical, we were able to measure considerable progress at all three, during subsequent intermediate inspections. In particular, the changes which have been achieved this year by Management and Staff at Perth are quite remarkable.

1.4 Our report on the National Induction Centre at Shotts underlines the national significance of the innovative work which is now being undertaken at this location. We believe that many of the principles on which it operates should now be emulated at other establishments.