HL Deb 23 February 2005 vol 669 cc202-3WA
Lord Ouseley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Prison Service's suicide prevention strategy applies to immigration detention centres. [HL1075]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND) have separate procedures that contain elements taken from the Prison Service. Immigration Service removal centres operate under the terms of the Detention Centre Rules 2001. All detainees entering immigration detention are subject to a risk assessment that includes the risks of suicide and self-harm. Anyone who is identified at any point as presenting a risk of suicide will be treated in line with the centre's suicide and self-harm procedures, which are supported by the IND operating standard on the prevention of suicide and self-harm.

Lord Ouseley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many people have committed suicide since May 2004 in prisons and in immigration detention centres; and what steps are being taken to prevent such deaths. [HL1076]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

There has been one apparent self-inflicted death in an immigration removal centre, and 63 in Prison Service establishments since 1 May 2004 (up to end 31 January 2005). This includes deaths where it appears the individual acted specifically to take his or her own life, not just those that receive a suicide verdict at inquest. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman investigates all deaths in Prison Service establishments and Immigration Service removal centres.

Reducing the number of apparently self-inflicted deaths in prisons is a key priority. More is being done to prevent such tragedies than ever before. On 31 March 2004, I announced how the development of the suicide prevention strategy which aims to "Reduce distress and promote the well-being of all who live and work in prisons".

This strategy builds on a three-year programme of work that has been running since April 2001. It has close links with issues of resettlement, detoxification, health, purposeful activity, and staff training. Key achievements include ensuring that suicide prevention co-ordinators now operate in all prisons, an investment of over £21 million at six "safer local" pilot sites, a widening of peer support schemes and the development of a safer prison design that includes safer cells.