| Perth Prison, like a growing number of other penal establishments, has a significant overcrowding problem, Scotland’s Chief Inspector of Prisons, Andrew McLellan said today on publication of his HMCIP report.
The report, which describes a follow-up inspection in June, draws attention to real progress in a number of areas.
However, where slopping out still exists, conditions are still bad and overcrowding is placing a strain on the prison.
Dr McLellan said, “Perth has joined the growing number of prisons where every aspect of prison life and management is affected by overcrowding.
“Worst overcrowding is in C Hall, where the number of prisoners can approach 50% above the number the hall should hold.
“While the prison does try to minimise the disadvantages to prisoners that overcrowding brings, conditions in C Hall are bad. Slopping out still exists and as long as it is combined with cell sharing it remains a disgrace.
“Installation of electrical power in cells in C Hall has however made a difference for the better.
“A new building programme is under way for the whole prison, but it means it may still be some time before slopping out is ended.
“Most of the other accommodation has been refurbished and is clean and tidy. There are limited opportunities for work, particularly for those prisoners sentenced to less than six months, the reception area is inadequate, and the quality of the food is poor.
“On the other hand, there is evidence of real progress in the provision of programmes for prisoners. Other matters assessed very positively are induction, sentence management and throughcare.
“Healthcare arrangements continue to be good, although there is a heavy workload imposed by the need to provide methadone and detoxification drugs.
“There have been no escapes since the last inspection. There has been an increase in prisoner on prisoner violence, particularly among remand and short-term prisoner. Relationships between staff and prisoners are very good.
“Despite the problems caused by overcrowding and the unacceptable practice of slopping out in C Hall, prison staff have made progress in delivering a number of improvements since the last inspection and for that they are to be commended.
“It is to be hoped that they will be further supported in this when the new building programme begins.” |
