Duty of Care to Offenders in the SPS

Overview:

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is entrusted with a duty of care to offenders, ensuring humane treatment and the provision of essential needs. This commitment encompasses various aspects of prisoners' well-being, including nutrition, clothing, cleanliness, medical care, meaningful activities, education, and exercise.

Basic Needs:

• Nutrition: Offenders within the prison system are provided with adequate and nutritious meals to maintain their health.
• Clothing: Prisoners are appropriately clothed, addressing their basic requirements for comfort and hygiene.

Healthcare:

• Medical Care: The SPS ensures that prisoners receive necessary medical care when required, promoting their physical well-being.

Rehabilitative Opportunities:

• Employment: Offenders are given opportunities for meaningful employment within the prison, contributing to their personal development and skill acquisition.
• Education: The SPS facilitates educational programs, offering prisoners a chance to improve their knowledge and skills during their sentence.

Exercise and Recreation:

• Physical Activity: Prisoners are afforded opportunities for exercise and recreation, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

In essence, the Scottish Prison Service strives to create a humane and supportive environment for offenders. By addressing basic needs, providing healthcare, and offering opportunities for rehabilitation through employment, education, and recreation, the SPS fulfils its duty of care to offenders. This approach aligns with the broader goal of contributing to the well-being of individuals within the prison system and supporting their potential reintegration into society.