§ Mrs. BrookeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what special arrangements the Prison service makes over the Christmas and new year period to(a) prevent suicides, (b) prevent self-harm and (c) increase observation of at-risk prisoners. [29525]
§ Beverley HughesThe last two weeks of any year is a difficult time for most prisoners and particularly harrowing for those with suicidal thoughts. Staff are reminded of the enhanced dangers and to ensure that anti-suicide policies and procedures are firmly adhered to. There were four self-inflicted deaths in late 2001 but the overall total for the year was reduced by 11 per cent. for the second year running and the rate per 100,000 of average daily population was the lowest since 1993.
Prisons go to great lengths at Christmas and the new year to make establishments as pleasant and relaxed as possible in the prison environment. Specific arrangements will vary between prisons depending on local circumstances and available staffing levels, for example, allowing all prisoners one call on Christmas day to contact their family.