Resettlement/Release
Repeated
The Board retains its view that re-offending rates cannot be reduced unless there is suitable accommodation for all prisoners who have completed their sentence or are being released on HDC. Bail accommodation is limited in the south east, and the Board urges the minister to look into this further, to see how more accommodation can be provided.
Other
For the majority of the reporting year, the Rochester Board had just six active members from an establishment of 14. Consequently, the Board found it increasingly challenging to discharge its statutory duties. The minister is asked to note this issue, and assist by expediting delays which occur, such as with security clearances. (paragraph 8.1. refers)
Estate/Conditions
Repeated
As stated last year, the accommodation at HMP/YOI Rochester is very poor, and in the Board’s view, just about providing the minimal standard required. The Edwardian buildings on the old site are dilapidated and challenging to keep maintained; and the newer pre-fabricated buildings have exceeded their original use dates by several years, and are beset by poor ventilation as well as ongoing water supply, structural, and heating issues. A complete refurbishment of the site was proposed, but this appears to have been discounted. The Board strongly supports the redevelopment of the Rochester site.
Other
Repeated
Property losses on transfer: yet again, there appears to have been no progress in resolving the problems which occur when a prisoner and their property are transferred between establishments, and property goes missing. Volumetric control introduced via the new property guidance is being ignored, as prisoners arrive at Rochester with excessive amounts of property. Lack of ownership over this reoccurring problem is frustrating. There appears to be an ongoing lack of care in regard to prisoners’ property, illustrated by the 215 applications related to property which the Board has received this year. (See paragraph 5.8.1))
Safety
Repeated
As noted last year, there has been some improvement in cell clearance checks, but it still remains haphazard and many are not conducted properly, particularly when an individual is moved to the CSU. Can this be addressed? (See paragraph 5.8.c.)
Complaints/Property
The number of complaints has increased considerably, and is in line with the increase of applications to the Board. While complaints and applications related to property issues account for most of this increase, the Board will be examining whether there are any underlying issues which are causing the increase in both complaints and applications. It will be working with the complaints team over this.
Estate/Conditions
Repeated
Vermin continues to be an ongoing challenge at Rochester, with many prisoners opting to make barriers across their cell thresholds to keep the mice out.
Substance Misuse
Repeated
The availability of drugs, especially new psychoactive substances (NPS), at Rochester continues to be the main issue for safety and security management at the prison. Drug-related debt, and the subsequent bullying and intimidation, remain significant elements of life at Rochester.
Healthcare
The Board has raised with the Governor and Healthcare Managers that attendance by a representative from healthcare continues to be erratic. The Board has pointed out that attendance is required for the review to be valid, and in theory should not go ahead unless a healthcare representative is present.
Segregation
Repeated
Once again, on several occasions the 42-day time limit for segregation was exceeded when a prisoner’s status was changed to Category B. The Board’s view is that this delay is unacceptable.
Healthcare
The average wait to see the GP is approximately 17 days, and therefore commensurate to that in the community. In addition the Board is aware the GP can sometimes arrive late, which in turn can mean those prisoners with appointments are returned to their wings. Anxiousness about the waiting time to see the GP remains a key issue for prisoners.
Resettlement/Release
Repeated
For much of the year the lack of Category D (open conditions) places in the South East, remained a significant problem. Many of the applications to the IMB concerning categorisation related to the frustration felt by prisoners who have worked towards getting Category D status, only to find they remain at Rochester in Category C conditions.
Staffing
Repeated
Throughout this reporting period HMP/YOI Rochester has continued to provide a stable and safe environment for prisoners. This was a considerable achievement given there has been a continuing shortage of prison officers and other staff at the prison during this time.
Education/Purposeful Activity
Repeated
More generally a shortage of trainers remains a significant problem with Welding, Plastering and Carpentry facilities available but unable to be used.
Education/Purposeful Activity
Unfortunately, the Board notes that attendance at Education is only around 70%, and has not recovered to its pre-Covid level.
Resettlement/Release
Repeated
However, a significant number of prisoners are released without any accommodation, and are consequently homeless and vulnerable. The Board continues to monitor the preparation for release closely, and retains the view that too many prisoners are released to become homeless, for example 25 prisoners were released between from July 22-23 to be rough sleepers.