§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What measures are currently in use to prevent suicides among convicted prisoners, prisoners on remand and migrants temporarily detained; and what plans for improvements they have.
Earl FerrersCircular Instruction 20/1989, a copy of which is in the Library, describes the range of measures taken by the prison service in England and Wales to try to prevent suicide and self-injury among prisoners. The main elements are systematic screening and assessment; suitable location and supervision; sympathetic and supportive contact with staff and others; reducing the opportunities for suicide by physical prevention measures; and ensuring staff awareness.
The prison service is constantly looking to improve its suicide prevention strategy. Among present initiatives are: a planned trial of the use of closed circuit television; the continuation of the "family ties" programme (including the installation of cardphones in Category C establishments, a proposed experiment at Winchester Prison in the use of cardphones by remand prisoners and a pilot scheme to reduce routine censorship in Category B (non-dispersal establishments); and encouraging the increasing involvement of the Samaritans.
In addition, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons has been asked to review the effectiveness of the prison service's policy and procedures for the prevention of suicide and self-harm, with particular reference to the risks posed by mentally disturbed prisoners. Judge Tumim is expected to report in the autumn.