Recommendation 3

HM Government Acknowledged

• We are considering models for accommodating older offenders as part of the older offenders strategy, and we will update further once this is published. Linked to this work, and as set out above, we are exploring how the prison environment can best support all cohorts, but in particular those who are most vulnerable such older prisoners. • In addition, we are updating our security categorisation and allocation processes, which will help to ensure that older prisoners are held in the most appropriate setting. • Security categorisation is an individual risk management process designed to ensure that those sentenced to custody are assigned the lowest security category appropriate to managing their risk of escape or abscond, harm to the public, ongoing criminality in custody, or violent or other behaviour that impacts the safety of those within the prison or disrupts the security and good order of the prison. • HMPPS is implementing a new policy framework for categorising offenders. As part of the work, a Digital Categorisation Service (DCS) has been developed that supports staff in identifying relevant risk information and reaching a decision on an individual’s security needs. It enables better access to information for those making categorisation decisions, particularly by taking advantage of data from partners and making more use of information known by prison security teams. It also includes a specific assessment for open conditions. • Once an offender has been given a security category, they are then generally allocated to a prison of the equivalent security category that is able to meet their individual needs, which would include any needs that they have in respect of their age or any disability they may have. • The implementation of the new framework and DCS is expected to be completed in the coming months for adult and young adult males, and during next year for female offenders. • Age and disability in themselves do not influence an individual’s category, which is based on an assessment of risk. However, where age or disability impacts risk, for example the likelihood of escape from a closed prison or of reoffending if the individual were to escape or abscond, then they are factors which will be taken into account when reaching a categorisation decision. • Alongside the DCS, the recently updated Offender Flows and Interim National Allocation Protocol (NAP) went live across the adult male estate (age 18+) on 28th September 2020. The flows focus on men transferring, including on initial allocation from Reception Prisons (once sentenced), on a ‘time left to serve’ basis. This is to ensure that men are sent to the most appropriate prison for their needs, including social care, and have enough time in custody to engage with the available services and interventions. Prior to transfer prisoners will be assessed on their most appropriate categorisation. • Although the Offender Flows and NAP do not specifically focus on the aged population or disabilities, all prisoners transferring to other establishment must be clinically assessed prior to transfer. Some prisons are more able to accept prisoners in these categories due to, for example, prison layout and accessibility to required facilities.