Edinburgh Prison has resolved most of the problems identified in a
previous report, according to a follow-up by Her Majesty’s Chief
Inspector of Prisons Dr Andrew McLellan.
McLellan welcomed the opening of new facilities and the introduction
of integrated case management, but raised concerns about the number of
prisoners with mental health issues at the prison.
“I was concerned to find that there appears to be an increasing
number of people with a serious mental illness being detained in HMP
Edinburgh. At the time of inspection the appointment of a second mental
health nurse was anticipated. But the demands placed upon prison
services and staff by people with severe mental health problems are
great. This theme is emerging in several prisons. With these kinds of
deep-rooted problems in evidence, it was particularly encouraging to
find that strong partnerships with community agencies and organisations
have been built,” he said.
McLellan said he was pleased that the prison had responded positively to his August 2005 full inspection:
“Edinburgh Prison has maintained
many of the strengths identified in my previous inspection report. The
prison remains safe, decent and clean. Moreover, this report also
shows that the prison has addressed most of the recommendations made
following a full inspection in August 2005.
“Significant among these is the
refurbishment of Glenesk Hall, where remand prisoners are held. These
prisoners are often in prison for very short periods of time and
usually show much less care for their cells and surroundings. Their
cells therefore need constant refurbishment. The conditions for remand
prisoners are now better than they were last year. However, there is
little for them to do, resulting in them spending very long hours
locked in their cells, especially at weekends.”
McLellan said that the main
source of prisoner anger in HMP Edinburgh came from some long-term
prisoners having to share cells.
No one has commented on this article.
Related news items:
|
Holyrood news 
