Institution ‘falls short on activity’

Glen Parva young offenders institution was criticised by the chief
inspector of prisons last week for providing too little purposeful
activity and resettlement work.

Anne Owers found that at least 30 per cent of young prisoners had
no access to work or education and that those who were on work
schemes often found themselves with little to occupy their
time.

There was still a low uptake of places in education, the
unannounced inspection found. Only 60 per cent of education places
were filled on the day of inspection. But effective work had been
carried out in preventing suicide, self-harm and bullying, and
resettlement issues had begun to be dealt with.

The inspectorate’s main recommendations were for increased staff
supervision, a more respectful staff culture, and significantly
more purposeful activity. Sentence plans should also address young
prisoners’ resettlement needs.