Inspector's "sadness" at women prisoners

Miserable condition of Cornton Vale inmates has become even worse, says report

News, 26 May 2005

---

The physical and mental condition of Scotland's women prisoners is even poorer than a year ago, according to the Chief Inspector of Prisons.

Dr Andrew McLellan was speaking in advance of the publication today of his follow-up inspection report on the female-only prison at Cornton Vale.

At the time of his inspection in February this year, 98% of inmates were drug addicts, 80% had mental health problems and 75% a history of abuse.

Last year, he said, he had been "extremely upset" at the miserable condition of women coming into prison, and the unrealistic expectation that it could do anything to turn round their lives. A year on, he was "even more sad than before".

"I'm not saying women shouldn't be sent to prison, but I think I am being realistic enough to recognise the condition of those coming into prison makes it almost impossible for prison to do anything that will reduce criminal behaviour."

Dr McLellan also criticises conditions at Cornton Vale for "degrading" toilet access facilities which result in some prisoners urinating in the sink in their cells. However he welcomes building work on new accommodation and refurbishment of parts of the jail.

Current News 05.09.08 PM changes tack on tax-raising powers Allowing Scottish Parliament more accountability would strengthen the UK, says Brown 05.09.08 Summary justice reform success, claims Angiolini Lord Advocate's letter says figures to date indicate new system working 04.09.08 Advocates in Aberdeen launch new website Internet presence aimed at increasing awareness of Society of Advocates in the north east 04.09.08 Legal profession, local income tax top bill list Scottish Government unveils legislative programme for 2008-09 04.09.08 Step up to associate for Fife lawyer Sue Arrowsmith promoted at Murray Donald Drummond Cook LLP 04.09.08 Prosecution inspectorate publishes annual report Review pending of new fiscal fine system 03.09.08 Society welcomes Legal Profession Bill Hopes that bill will provide for alternative business structures for law firms 03.09.08 'No proof that plaques harmful': insurance lawyers Industry's legal team argue against proposed law extending compensation 03.09.08 Commissioner orders release of tender information Council not justified in claim that Street Outreach documents must be kept secret 02.09.08 Stamp duty break for lower value properties 12-month threshold of £175,000 among government moves to buck up housing market 01.09.08 Government publishes sentencing proposals Judges and sheriffs would need to reveal reasons for departing from guidelines 01.09.08 Revenue reminds of new tax return date 31 October now deadline for paper returns 01.09.08 Blackadders' review results in 44 job losses Two branches also close as firm consolidates to combat property market troubles 01.09.08 Area procurator fiscal appointment for Central Michelle Macleod takes on new role 01.09.08 Partner catch for Ledingham Chalmers Neil Anderson appointed, while Marysia Lewis takes up floating sheriff appointment