What happens when prisoners first arrive at prison?
There are a few procedures that take place when a prisoner first arrives at prison. These are done to make sure the prisoner has everything they need and to highlight any problems they may have such as a medical complaint.
Prisoner's property
The first thing that happens is that the prisoner's property is listed by an officer and put into safe-keeping. Some of the items can be kept by the prisoner, the rest will be returned to them when they leave prison.
Checking the prisoner's health
Once the prisoner has had a shower and been allocated their Prison Number, they are seen by a member of the healthcare team. It is important that every prisoner is assessed so that they can be given the proper care that they need whilst they are in prison. All the information is treated as confidential - just like going to a normal GP.
The reception interview
Shortly after arriving at prison, the prisoner will have an interview with a member of the probation staff, or a 'personal officer'. A personal officer is a prison officer who has been allocated to individual prisoners. The reception interview is another chance for the prisoner to discuss any problems they may have. Prison staff are there to help if there is anything the prisoner does not understand or if they need any advice or support.
Induction
To help prisoners settle into prison life, an induction session has been developed to explain how the prison works and what each prisoner's responsibilities are. It also helps prisoners to think about making the best use of their time in custody.
Ongoing support
Of course, from time to time, prisoners may have worries or problems that they might need to speak to someone about. Their personal officer or the officer in charge of their wing or unit are there to talk problems through with prisoners. In addition prisoners can talk to a prison 'buddy', chaplain or directly to the Samaritans.
