Latest News
10 March 2011
Addiewell Prison report published
Addiewell is an impressive prison and has made huge progress in most areas. Conditions within the prison are very good and prisoners are treated well by staff. There is good access to Learning, Skills and Employability opportunities. Every effort is made to maintain contact between prisoners and their families, and excellent links have been developed with community based organisations with a view to helping prisoners reintegrate back into the community on release and reduce the risk of reoffending. However, levels of violence are high, particularly the number of minor assaults on staff and the provision of healthcare is basic and not delivered to the same standard as in the community.
Full report>>>
Full news release>>>
4 March 2011
Review of the Arrangements for Progressing Prisoners from Closed to Open Conditions published
The Cabinet Secretary for Justice asked HMCIP Hugh Monro to carry out an independent review of the arrangements for transferring prisoners from closed to open conditions following the absconding of prisoners Robert Foye and Brian Martin from HMP Castle Huntly in 2007 and 2009. It also followed a review by Professor Alec Spencer.
The report acknowledges the significant advances that have been made by the SPS in improving their processes in relation to risk assessment and prisoner progression. The reduction in rates of absconding from the Open Estate from 24% or 71 in 2004-2005 to 2.3% or six in 2010-2011 demonstrates this very clearly.
The report makes a number of practical recommendations aimed at making risk assessment and progression processes even more robust and improving the consistency of their application.
Full report>>>
Full press release>>>
17 November 2010
Peterhead Prison report published
Conditions at Peterhead Prison remain among the worst of any establishment in Scotland with sanitation and hygiene arrangements being of particular concern. The report also highlights concerns that there is insufficient provision to address offending behaviour and that very few prisoners are tested in less secure conditions before release. However, the prison is comparatively safe for both prisoners and staff; the provision of medical and mental health services are good and there is adequate access to constructive activity during the day.
The Chief Inspector praised staff and management who have continued to deliver under difficult circumstances.
Full report>>>
Full press release>>>
23 September 2010
HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland Annual Report for 2009-2010 published
Scotland's prisons are safe and well run with exceptionally diligent staff looking after prisoners with professionalism and commitment, but a number of important issues remain unresolved.
Full report>>>
Full press release>>>
Kenny McAskill, Cabinet Secretary for Justice's speech from launch of report>>>
26 August 2010
Glenochil Prison report published
Glenochil is a well managed prison that provides good conditions for prisoners.
Full report>>>
Full press release>>>