Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Deferred
Paragraph: 88
Remand prisoners' entitlement to visits not consistently met post-pandemic.
Conclusion
We heard evidence that targets for the number of visits a remand prisoner is entitled to are still not being achieved as prisons are yet to fully emerge from their pandemic regimes. HMPPS should ensure this entitlement is met, including giving consideration as to whether greater use of video facilities set up to communicate with courts could be used to facilitate remote visits where in-person visits are not possible.
Government Response Summary
The government accepted the recommendation in principle but committed to providing specialised training for prison officers working with remand prisoners, rather than addressing the specific issue of visit entitlements or using video facilities for remote visits.
Paragraph Reference:
88
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
We accept this recommendation in principle. We will provide specialised training regarding remand prisons to prison officers who will be working with this cohort of prisoners. Current Prison Officer Foundation training includes training on a variety of cohorts, including remand prisoners, so learners are prepared for working in all establishments across the estate on their completion of the course. We will now move towards a modular foundation learning approach with a requirement for all to complete appropriate modules, dependant on the specific prison they will first work in. This approach will build knowledge and skills accordingly and will include specialist training in working with remand prisoners. There will be a particular focus on building relationships to engage prisoners and keeping people safe during the early days in custody period. Resettlement following time spent in custodial remand