A third of young men at HMP Polmont lack post-release living arrangements

A prisons chief has expressed concern that a third of young men at HMP & YOI Polmont do not have post-release living arrangements in place.

HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland, David Strang said in a new report that “despite the excellent work undertaken by the Throughcare Support Officers, 34 per cent of the young men they work with are not provided an address to live prior to liberation.”

He added: “Local authorities, housing agencies and organisation should work together to ensure that no young person leaves custody without a pre-identified and suitable place to live on their day of liberation.”

The report also notes that initial teeth problems in transferring more than 100 women from HMP & YOI Cornton Vale to HMP & YOI Polmont were tackled quickly and appropriately.

“The management and staff in Polmont should be commended for the successful transfer and integration of the women, whilst at the same time maintaining delivery of a full regime for the young men,” Mr Strang said.

The prisons chief also commended the provision of healthcare at the prison.

He said: “It was encouraging to note that NHS Forth Valley had developed the provision and delivery of healthcare in Polmont. In particular, improved and extended arrangements were in place for assessing the mental health needs of the increased and more complex population, with an associated improvement in access to the mental health nursing team and the psychiatrist support for both the young men and the women.”

“As I have stated in previous reports, too many young men spent long periods of time locked in their cells. Additionally, not all young men were able to participate in recreation each day, with access to the open air particularly restricted at the weekend, especially for those held on remand.”