Wymott

Response
I acknowledge the number of prisoners serving indeterminate sentences for public protection (IPP) at HMP Wymott increased this year due to those who were recalled. Our main priority must always be to protect the public. I would like, however, to reassure you HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS) remains committed to doing all it can to support the progression of those serving IPP sentences and efforts to reduce their risk, to the point where the Parole Board determines that they may be safely released. Nationally, the number of IPP prisoners who have never been released stood at 1,437 at the end of September 2022 and is reduced from 1,661 at the end of September 2021. As the proportion of those who remain in prison who committed more serious offences and whose cases are complex grows, there will be prisoners serving an IPP sentence who have spent a significant number of years in custody after completing their tariff. The power to recall is another crucial public protection measure, where risk has escalated to the point where a person may no longer be safely managed in the community, even with the imposition of additional licence conditions. IPP prisoners may only be recalled if their behaviour has a causal link to their index offence (or they are out of contact with probation where the link can be presumed). It is vital to retain the power to recall a person back to prison for the duration of their IPP licence. As you will no doubt be aware, the Justice Select Committee recently published a report into the IPP sentence. The evidence and recommendations are being carefully considered and a full response will be provided in due course. My officials will also review the IPP Action Plan in light of this report. Locally, HMP Wymott is steadily increasing Prison Offender Manager contact with all IPP prisoners. As OBP delivery volumes increase post pandemic, we continue to prioritise prisoners approaching their release or parole date. This means that IPPs are prioritised for programmes where this is identified as the most appropriate pathway.

Response
In response to financial difficulties arising from inflationary cost increases in prison canteen items, the Ministry of Justice has recently and permanently increased private cash rates for prisoners by 10% (money that is sent in by family and friends of prisoners). For example, enhanced prisoners can access £66 or £33 a week depending on their conviction status. Other options are also being explored to support prisoners financially with the cost-of-living issue. Governors and Directors of contracted prisons have the necessary freedoms to set local pay rates based on a variety of reasons such as their prisoner population needs, the type of prison and regime in operation, and the jobs / educational / vocational training that are available. Under the Prisoners’ Pay policy they are also required to have a local pay structure which is reviewed annually as part of the business plan process, to ensure that it remains compliant with Prison Service Pay policy. As raised by the Board, the overall budget has not increased for some time and there is no scope for this locally. HMP Wymott has implemented a pay scheme following extensive consultation that attempts to reward engagement, support for others and encourages good behaviours. The Governor has also been exploring options for further private sector industries supporting workshops to offer enhanced pay schemes and increasing work with the courier company DHL in the near future.

Response
The newly published Prisoners’ Property Policy Framework came into effect on 5 September 2022. As the Board is aware, the framework is the result of extensive consultation, including with the IMB. It has been designed with procedural justice at its core and aims to ensure consistency and fairness and enhance prisoners’ satisfaction with processes and outcomes. Given the nature of property, and the movement of prisoners between establishments, the framework looks to provide greater direction and standardisation on a national basis. It strengthens processes in relation to the main problem areas identified by IMBs and staff including the handling of valuable property, managing cell clearances, compliance with volumetric control and forwarding on excess property following a prisoner’s transfer. Locally at HMP Wymott, it is recognised that staffing shortfalls at times have affected property management. The recruitment position is projected to improve in early 2023 and the managing of cell clearance process has been reiterated to wing staff and prisoners should see noticeable improvements once the new policy framework has been fully embedded.

Response
As the Board is aware, the kitchen refurbishment / replacement work was approved pending funding. To date, this has not yet been funded. The Governor will keep you informed of any further updates.