Buckley Hall

Response
I was pleased to hear that the use of video-link visits has been popular amongst prisoners since its introduction at HMP Buckley Hall. In line with the recommendations of the Farmer Review (2017) it has always been our intention to roll-out secure video calling technology across the entire estate. The suspension of social visits due to the pandemic led to the introduction of video calling at pace. The roll-out began on 15 May 2020 and is now available in more than 100 prisons. We are currently working on the policies/procedures to ensure that video calling remains embedded as a permanent resource in all establishments to help support and maintain family contact.

Response
Like the Board, I recognise the importance of having In-Cell Telephony across the estate as it allows easier access to family/friends and support frameworks. The In-Cell Telephony project has now completed just over 60% of the estate. Installing infrastructure into the prison environment is, however, complex and can be time consuming due to local restrictions and security implications. It can take up to 12 months to install In-Cell Telephony into each prison. HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) determines the priority order of deployment and unfortunately HMP Buckley Hall is not currently in scope to receive In-Cell Telephony. The establishments currently in scope are financially covered under an investment fund, meaning only a certain amount of sites can be completed due to limited funds available at this time. Additional establishments will be added to the scope for In-Cell Telephony if further funding becomes available.

Response
The configuration of single and double cells on A wing will be reviewed as part of a strategic review of the drug strategy at HMP Buckley Hall.

Response
Locks have been fitted restricting access to healthcare staff only and sockets have been installed.

Response
It is disappointing that the new Prisoners’ Property policy framework has not been published. The project involving 14 prisons has been concluded and HMPPS is working closely with stakeholders to consult on proposed changes to the policy. However, in light of the pressures placed on Boards by Covid-19, HMPPS agreed with the IMB Secretariat to push consultation with Boards back until August 2020. Consultation with operational colleagues is also expected to resume soon. The feedback received from IMB members is being considered alongside the comments received earlier on in the year from other stakeholders, with the intention that the revised draft policy framework will be circulated for wider consultation at the beginning of 2021. While digital improvements are being explored, the nature of that work means that any digital changes are likely to take longer to develop. It should be noted that all prisoners, irrespective of the local incentive level, can have access to the permitted items listed under Part 1 of the National Facilities List set out in Annex C of the Incentives Policy Framework which went live in prisons on 13 January 2020. Governors can then choose to make additional items available from Part 2 of the list to those on the Standard and Enhanced levels or any additional levels introduced locally above Enhanced. Allowing prisons to determine locally what incentive level prisoners must be on to have access to these additional items provides them with the flexibility to tailor incentives to their local needs and challenges. Should a prisoner be subsequently transferred to another prison where items which they have earned are not permitted, the Incentives Policy Framework and Prison Service Instruction 12/2011 - Prisoners’ Property makes it clear that the prisoner would normally be allowed to retain these items unless it is considered a risk to good order, discipline, security, safety or would exceed volumetric control limits.

Response
The whole establishment has been re-profiled at Band 3 prison officer level. Resource is sufficient to deliver drug testing and searching. In addition, a third Custodial Manager will be deployed to support the security function.