HL Deb 11 January 2005 vol 668 cc44-5WA
The Earl of Listowel

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What provision for bereavement counselling is made in young offender institutions. [HL510]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

Many prisons, including young offender institutions, have arrangements with local bereavement agencies, such as CRUSE, to provide individual bereavement counselling for prisoners bereaved while in custody.

All prisons maintain a care team and have in place a strategy to support staff and prisoners following a death in custody. The local chaplaincy team offers support to families bereaved by a death in custody, and to prisoners and staff. Additionally, governors appoint a member of staff to make and maintain contact with the bereaved family, and to provide information and practical support.