Report on HM Prison Shotts

HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland 1998

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 An inspection of HM Prison Shotts was carried out during the period 2-10 November 1998, the previous formal examination having taken place in February 1994. During the intervening period there had been regular unannounced visits to the establishment.

1.2 The 1998 inspection team numbered 11 and included independent Healthcare, Addictions and Educational Advisers. Two Guest Inspectors also attended in addition to which, two Observers also examined the inspection process.

1.3 The previous report had concluded with observations that praised the quality of the prisoner accommodation as being amongst the best in the mainstream system, though there was also strong criticism of the restricted nature of the regime. Considerable adverse comment had also been passed on the limitations on association being imposed through the use of grille gates on the residential Hall landings. (These had been introduced a year earlier in response to a number of serious incidents at the establishment.)

1.4 On this latest occasion it was pleasing to note that the regime had progressed considerably; indeed, it was hard to recognise some of the criticisms made in 1994 with what we found on this latest inspection. That said, we have identified a number of areas where both the SPS and the establishment could direct their attention further to enhance the management of long term prisoners (LTPs). This is particularly pertinent at this time, as over the last 10 years there has been a 36% increase in the number of lifers throughout the SPS. There has also been a 57% increase in their number at Shotts since the last formal inspection.

1.5 In addition, this report urges that priority be given to the construction of a new health centre. The present one is now far too cramped to be able to deliver appropriate health care standards on a sustained basis and is in the wrong place.