Manchester

Can the minister please tell us when the work will commence and when it is due to be completed?

I hope to reassure the Board that the contractor in place to fit the new cell windows recently carried out detailed surveys to finalise the project costs and timescales. The duration of the window replacement programme is primarily dictated by the number of cells that can be decanted and factoring in current population pressures. It is anticipated that the work will commence in February 2023, subject to the findings of the design proposal survey and, likely to be completed by December 2026. Repairs to damaged windows will be made for the duration of this period. An emergency programme of work to stabilise the central tower is anticipated to be completed by the end of March 2023. A permanent solution for the tower will then be designed and submitted for approval. Regarding the pest control programme, Amey has conducted routine cleaning of the designated area mentioned in your report with the result of fewer rats and other vermin have been seen recently.

Does HMPPS plan to take any action to address these issues at national level?

The new published Prisoners’ Property Policy Framework came into effect on 5 September 2022 and replaces Prison Service Instruction 12/2011 Prisoners Property. 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.

Does HMPPS plan any review of this process to identify how it could be improved?

The new published Prisoners’ Property Policy Framework came into effect on 5 September 2022 and replaces Prison Service Instruction 12/2011 Prisoners Property. 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. At HMP Manchester, a property summit has been carried out, consulting with key stakeholders including staff, prisoners, their families, and partner organisations. Feedback received has led to changes in local processes such as a review of the cell clearance local policy and associated documentation. Whilst there is still room for improvement, the number of property related complaints has declined significantly, and the Governor is confident that this new approach is working.

How does the Governor plan to address this?

To further assure and understand data, and then put specific actions in place to address emerging issues such as violence, an Intelligence Analysist has been recruited to work in Safer Custody. Furthermore, staff confidence and capability are being strengthened through awareness building sessions and training. The Governor has recruited for two Prison Officer Mentors to support staff. Key worker sessions have restarted, and individuals identified as having greater need are prioritised. However, there is still progress needed in this area, this is another key priority for the Governor.

Will the Governor be monitoring the waiting times for dental treatment and working with the prison’s healthcare provider through the local delivery board to reduce them?

Does the Governor have plans to address this?

To further assure and understand data, and then put specific actions in place to address emerging issues such as violence, an Intelligence Analysist has been recruited to work in Safer Custody. Furthermore, staff confidence and capability are being strengthened through awareness building sessions and training. The Governor has recruited for two Prison Officer Mentors to support staff. Key worker sessions have restarted, and individuals identified as having greater need are prioritised. However, there is still progress needed in this area, this is another key priority for the Governor.