DETAINEES are not treated humanely as they are locked in a cell for up to 23 hours a day, according to a report.
Inspectors from the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) said inmates at Lewes Prison had few opportunities to spend time outdoors due to restrictions imposed by the regime during the pandemic.
They found that although there was no spread of Covid-19 to the general prison population and that the pandemic restrictions were “justifiable”, inspectors say being locked in a cell 23 hours a day does not ‘is’ not human’.
The board said the prisoners’ reaction to the restrictions was largely a reaction of “tolerance and understanding,” but stressed that the psychological impact of being locked up every day for such long periods of time does not. may be “overestimated”.
He praised the Governor, Hannah Lane, her team and prison officers, however, for keeping inmates safe during the pandemic.
Selena Bevis, President of IMB in Lewes, said: “It has been an extraordinary year and we congratulate all prison staff for ensuring the safety of prisoners and being fully informed during the pandemic.
“The long-term impact of the restrictions cannot be overstated. We look forward to a relaxation of the current regime and a return to education and work, allowing prisoners to use their time productively towards their release.
The report highlighted concerns about the “disproportionate” use of force against BAME prisoners.
Lewes Prison statistics show that over a seven-month period from April to October 2020, the average prison population of Bame was over 17%, but contributed to 33% of the use of force.
The Watchdog also said it was not “human” that an average of 13 prisoners living at HMP Lewes did not have a set release date.
These detainees are subject to prison terms for the protection of the public (PPI), which were abolished by the coalition government eight years ago because they were considered unfair.
More about this article: Read More
Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-06-23 23:01:00
