Whatton

PRISONERS

The prisoners praised the jail’s safety. They rated KeyworkA national scheme under which Prison Officers are given training and time to work one-to-one with around six prisoners, aimed at supporting their management and rehabilitation, good staff-prisoner relationships, a strong rehab culture and time out of cell. Education and training, including distance learning and vocational courses (e.g. business development) were praised. The gym and Chaplaincy were singled out. Outside links (including sports teams, outside speakers, Geese TheatreTheatre company offering interactive productions, drama-based groupwork, and training in criminal justice settings www.geese.co.uk, Learning TogetherScheme bringing together students and prisoners to study together – see also “Inside Out”) were positives, and visits, including family visits, were ‘very good’. Prisoner consultation was strong, with a wide range of reps meeting regularly with management. Peer support was a positive. Induction was highlighted. Autism and dementia awareness and support, with many staff and prisoners trained, were also positives, as was support for those with learning disabilities and reading problems. The ‘OPAL’ drop-in for over 50s was highlighted, and the grounds were appreciated by all.

MANAGERS

Managers agreed staff-prisoner relationships and safety were good and Keywork has been very positive. They highlighted support for older prisoners, and those with autism and dementia. Education (Ofsted ‘outstanding’), a preparation for release course, visiting lecturers and Learning Together were highlighted. Prisoner engagement and consultation were strengths. Low drug use was attributed to scanning of all mail, and strong support and consistent sanctions for users. The gardens and cleanliness were positives for all. The staff mess had been refurbished and was widely used. There was an excellent Care TeamA group of staff providing support to other staff, including after incidents, a strong focus on staff well-being, a widely appreciated monthly staff recognition scheme, and opportunities for family members to tour the jail.

OFFICERS

The Officers also rated safety and staff-prisoner relations, and noted the de-escalation skills of staff. They appreciated the staff mess, and the gardens and cleanliness of the prison which was good for staff and prisoners. They also highlighted support for older prisoners and social care provision.