An inquest into the death of a young woman who died in custody five years ago begins today.
Petra Blanksby, who was found hanging by a ligature in her cell while on remand for arson at HMP New Hall in November 2003, had a history of self-harm.
She had also been diagnosed with a personality disorder and in the 130 days she spent in New Hall she self-harmed 90 times. Some of her injuries were so serious she was admitted to hospital.
Co-director of charity Inquest Deborah Coles said the hearing, which will last two weeks, needs to explore why someone who was a suicide risk had been sent to prison.
Petra's father, Peter Blanksby, said: "It's disgusting we have had to wait all this time. We need to know why my daughter was sent to prison when she had so many problems and why they couldn't take care of her when she was there."
Related articles
Campaigners urge removal of women from prison
News round up: Are retired social workers willing to go back?
11 March 2009
Are retired social workers willing to go back after Baby P?
11 March 2009
News round-up: Ofsted chief in Haringey inspection row resigns
11 February 2009
Ofsted chief in Haringey inspection row resigns
11 February 2009
Positive images of social work
01 July 2009
Laming review of child protection
12 May 2009
Bristol finds common assessment framework liberates social workers and spreads responsibilities
01 July 2009
Helping people with mental health problems who are in debt
29 June 2009
How ITV Fixers have enabled young people to go public with life stories
17 June 2009
Social workers 'must use GSCC code to challenge workloads'
One third of children may be living with binge-drinking parents
Khyra Ishaq: Accused face retrial after jury discharged
Details of government consultations
12 June 2009
Government Legislation
02 December 2008
Private Member Bills
21 November 2008