HL Deb 22 May 2003 vol 648 cc103-4WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their response to the review by Mr J Heavens of suicides at HM Prison Brixton; and whether they have proposals for limiting deaths in custody throughout the prison system. [HL2844]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton:

The Heavens report, a copy of which is in the Library, found no evidence that the deaths could be linked to Irish backgrounds but made recommendations covering such issues as suicide prevention procedures and support for Irish prisoners. The Director General of the Prison Service has accepted all the recommendations of the report, and these are being taken forward by the area manager for London prisons.

Significant numbers of lives have been saved in recent years as a result of the prompt actions of staff. The number of prisoners resuscitated following self-harm incidents totalled 130 in 2000; 147 in 2001, 155 in 2002 and 28 so far in 2003 (up to 31 March). Emerging research findings, including interviews with prisoners who have tried to kill themselves but who subsequently failed, indicate that the strongest predictors of psychological distress concern entry to prison and perceived safety.

As I said in my reply on 22 January 2003, (Official Report, WA 92) the Prison Service is in the second year of a three-year programme to develop new suicide prevention and self-harm reduction policies. This involves targeting work where the risks are highest, particularly during the crucial early period of custody, and developing integrated policies with the agencies with which prisoners may be in contact before, during and after custody. Much of the programme is currently in the pilot stage, and decisions about future strategy and resource allocation will be taken during 2004.

The Prison Service's developing policies, which include the direct involvement of prisoners themselves and a continuing strong partnership with Samaritans and the voluntary sector generally, are integrated with the health agenda and the Government's strategy for reducing suicide in the community. Much of the current work is based on re-emphasising the importance of time to talk and be listened to, specialist help, activities, contact with families, and support from other prisoners. The Prison Service is reexamining how to get the best balance between targeting risk and doing more for all prisoners.