HC Deb 10 December 1997 vol 302 c586W
Helen Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proportion of(a) doctors and (b) other staff currently working in the Prison Service have undergone recognised training courses in dealing with mentally disordered offenders. [19292]

Ms Quin

Fourteen doctors (8 per cent.) are members of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Since 1 April 1997, 63 doctors (32 per cent.) attended two Mental Health training days organised by the Prison Service. These courses have received recognition from the Postgraduate Education Offices of the Regional Health Authorities. In addition, 20 doctors are currently studying for a Diploma in Prison Medicine which has a significant training element in dealing with mentally disordered offenders.

A further 332 other members of staff are Registered Mental Nurses, representing 21 per cent. of the total Health Care Officer and Nursing grades.