Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 168
168
Deferred
Implement new secure systems for distributing and administering prison medication to prevent diversion.
Conclusion
HMPPS should conduct an urgent review of all prescription medication dispensing procedures within prisons to identify and close loopholes exploited for diversion and introduce enhanced supervision of medication queries. New secure systems for distributing and administering medication must be implemented immediately to prevent diversion and protect vulnerable prisoners. (Recommendation, Paragraph 39) Drivers of the demand and impact of drugs in prison
Government Response Summary
The government's response focuses on staff training for emergency medical responses, including First Aid and Naloxone use, and general drug awareness resources. It does not address the recommendation to review medication dispensing procedures, close loopholes, or implement new secure distribution systems to prevent diversion.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Staff training in emergency medical responses is a vital part of safeguarding within prisons. MoJ, HMPPS and NHSE will work in partnership to deliver training to ensure all frontline staff are appropriately trained and able to work with health teams at an operational level to respond efficiently to medical emergencies. All new prison officers receive Emergency First Aid training, which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Additionally, the use of Naloxone is now embedded into the foundation training for all new prison officers. To determine the sufficient level of provision required to ensure an effective emergency response, every prison conducts a First Aid Needs Assessment in accordance with the First Aid at Work regulations. Within current HMPPS policy, these assessments are required to account for the needs of prisoners and individuals on probation. More widely, we build on staff capability through refresher resources and communication packages. For example, materials such as instructional videos have been developed and are available to staff through the Sphera Safety and My Learning platforms to update and maintain their First Aid knowledge and skills. Additionally, the Drugs in Prison and Probation (DiPP) guide offers accessible information on the most common substances found in custody and probation settings to educate staff at every level and strengthen their ability to responsively safeguard individuals across the estate.