“I am hugely honoured “Guilty, I am - radicalised, “Being free doesn’t solve by the opportunity to I was. Yet I still find my your problems it just gives the National Newspaper for Prisoners & Detainees lead HMPPS at such an entire situation incredibly you the space to deal with important time.” Jo Farrar surreal.” Zakaria Amara them.” Melanie Myers a voice for prisoners since Newsround // page 10 Comment // page 31 Comment // page 27
March 2019 / Issue No. 237 / www.insidetime.org / A ‘not for profit’ publication/ ISSN 1743-7342 WORLD BOOK DAY 11 // MOTHER’S DAY 46 // INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 54 An average of 60,000 copies distributed monthly Independently verified by the Audit Bureau of Circulations PAROLE REVOLUTION Justice Secretary David Gauke’s ‘landmark reform’
l Prisoners and victims l Process to be more l Victims still have no to have right of appeal transparent to counter veto on decisions to against decisions. ‘profound deficiencies’. release.
Inside Time report whether there could have The judge would be able to been serious mistakes or legal either ask the original panel 14 flaws in the ruling. If the Jus- to review its decision or order Credit: HMP Hydebank Wood Under the new plans, victims tice Secretary decides that a fresh hearing by a new who want to challenge a deci- there is a case for the decision panel. The new system will sion to release a particular to be reviewed he will refer apply from this summer to New kids on the block! prisoner would be able to the appeal to a judge at the those with the most serious apply to the Justice Secretary, Parole Board. The judge convictions, particularly Birth of kid goats brings spring joy to Hydebank on the basis that the ruling would apply similar thresh- those serving indeterminate was “fundamentally flawed”. olds to the bar needed to suc- sentences. The case would initially be cessfully launch a judicial examined by officials at HM review, based on illegality, Prison and Probation Service, irrationality and procedural Parole Board CEO Martin an agency of the Ministry of unfairness, according to Jones page 18 / Parole changes Officially Justice, who will consider officials. pages 7, 19, 39 and 40 the LARGEST prison law provider in NEWS FLASH! Durham telly adjudications ruled unlawful! 14 the Country The National Prison Law Specialists
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Our Expert team of over 40 specialist advisors have a wealth of experience to offer you including: • Parole Board Reviews • Category A Review Credit: NPR 44 • Recall to Prison • Minimum Term Reviews • Police Interviews • Sentence Planning Boards • Independent Adjudication Hearings • Re-Categorisation The Incredibles! • Governor Adjudications • Transfer A brand new three part National Prison Radio programme called ‘We Are • HDC “Tagging” & Sentence Calculation • Close Supervision Centre Review Incredible’ launches this month. The poet, former prisoner and NPR presenter Brenda Birungi (second left) will explore Women’s Centres which offer support for immediate FREE advice for women on release from prison to help get their lives back on track. In the first call us at the local rate on episode Brenda visits Brighton Women’s centre and talks to some of the residents. 08454 750 650
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insidetime Mailbites a voice for prisoners since 1990 Similar evidence case the national newspaper for prisoners published by Thomas Freeman - HMP Altcourse Inside Time Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of The New Bridge Foundation, founded in 1956 to I recently read an article in a newspaper about create links between the offender and the community. a police officer who was jailed for 25 years. Do we not think it’s about time that when a police Inside Time is wholly responsible for its editorial officer is found to be corrupt in any way, and content. Comments or complaints should be that includes being convicted of a crime, then directed to the publisher and not to New Bridge. ALL of his past cases should be undone, or at Board of Directors the very least looked at? This ex-policeman did not just become a criminal overnight, so how Trevor Grove Former Editor Sunday Telegraph, many cases was he involved in over the years Journalist, Writer and former Magistrate. where he may have lied in order to cover his Dr Peter Bennett Trustee, New Bridge own wrongdoing? All cases where a policeman Foundation and former Governor of HMP Grendon has been found to be bent, has been involved Geoff Hughes Former Governor of HMP Belmarsh John D Roberts Former Company Chairman and or given evidence in, should be examined Managing Director employing former prisoners again. Surely this is common sense? Louise Shorter CEO Inside Justice and former producer BBC Rough Justice Good treatment Alistair H E Smith BSc FCA Chartered Accountant, “We’re all in it together” Trustee and Treasurer, New Bridge Foundation © Andy Aitchison/Doctored image Name withheld - HMP Risley The Inside Team I just want to let you know that the treatment The insideteam What’s he in for? I’ve received down the block here has been first-class. I’m down here due to wrong Nikki - HMP Downview information that was put in my records by HMP Garth. It has made me a target for other I am writing with regard to ‘Phil of HMP Stafford’ and the mailbag ‘What you in for?’ in Janu- inmates. I got so low that I cut-up over ary’s issue. I couldn’t agree more with what he said - most of the people I have come across Christmas and was put on an ACCT. Staff here have had the same nonsense train of thought. Some people walk around proud as punch let- have supported me and helped me when I Erwin James John Roberts Rachel ting others know they have killed someone, that they took another life and destroyed a family needed it the most. There are cons down here Editor in Chief Publisher Billington OBE but to them that’s okay. Then there are people caught smuggling drugs, they seem to think spitting at the staff, making threats and and Director Associate Editor that it’s cool without thinking of all the people that probably overdose and die as a result of banging all night. The staff down here are their crime. I can say as an ex-user and drinker I am ashamed of the crimes I have committed sound and don’t deserve the abuse they get. and have been punished the right way, it saved my life too. But every case is different, and no Credit where it’s due, Risley gets a bad name one knows the truth and reason behind any crime except the people involved. Some are bul- and, in the past, rightly so, but they have lied, forced and manipulated into a situation while others are innocent. So, to quote Phil ‘It treated me with care and respect. seems like a lot of people look and judge other people’s actions and crimes, instead of looking at their crimes and the people they have affected.’ The people that walk around belittling oth- Noel Smith Paul Sullivan David Roberts Mental block ers need to take a long hard look at themselves and think about all the lives they have hurt Commissioning Editorial Operations Martyn Burke - HMP Garth Editor Assistant Manager and destroyed. Good on you Phil for saying what a lot of us have been thinking for a long time. Here in Garth the mental health help seems to be non-existent. For people who suffer with mental health problems we’re lucky to see anyone. The highlight of any involvement is seeing them walking in the corridors (am I seeing ghosts) I know this is not just an issue in Colin Matthews Justine Best Carla Rowe this jail and have read in Inside Time from Layout and Head of Admin Assistant FINANCE DIRECT LIMITED Design Administration other sufferers. The duty of care is a shambles. The health secretary needs to address this We are specialists in raising finance quickly to TIMELESS issue. Mental health is no longer a stigma in PROCESS society but a recognized problem worldwide. pay outstanding confiscation and other types It really comes down to the fact that people of enforcement orders. just want to know there is help out there, there are people who care and someone who wants Gary Bultitude John Bowers Louise Van to help. I wish you all the best of luck with your Website Design Proof Reading Mechelen DO YOU NEED MONEY TO and Advertising Accounts fight, hold your head high, you are not alone. 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On the Books Wire Not a care in the World Mailbag 2-9 Lifting life “The time is right J Lawrence - HMP Dartmoor John Eccles - HMP Parc to take back Book vandals I have wasted a considerable amount of my life by using il- control of our laws, borders, J Smith - HMP Wandsworth I write about your article licit drugs and committing spur of the moment crimes due to Page 7 my behaviour being irrational because of Class A drugs. In immigration.” I am unfortunate enough to find myself back in prison after Saving lives with LIFT. I too and out of Her Majesties prisons, not learning my lesson until Newsround 10-15 many years on the out, and I have to say that things, on the have a project doing exactly recently. Only I am to blame, and I understand that now. whole, seem to have changed for the worse. Smoking ban, the same and we have been “So, it occurred to Spice addicts, assaults and inexperienced staff seem to be doing well since November. me - perhaps I turning the system into a seriously dangerous place. One of the We deal with all inmates on “I was a typical addict, a liar, a thief and a could live for free things that has improved is the prisoner etiquette concerning an ACCT and anyone with manipulative person! I literally lived with not a if I lived in jail.” Page 13 books. When I was inside in the 1980s, it was almost impossible mental health issues. I have care in the world for myself or anyone else up to find a book that did not have the last page or some of the implemented a self-help Comment 16-31 middle pages ripped out. The amount of books I attempted to until around six months ago.” workbook and a construc- read, only to find that vital ingredients of the story had been “We are better off tive thinking workbook. I was removed from the streets because of a crime I commit- ripped away by some ignorant toerag, made me consider integrated rather ted. I didn’t worry about how I hurt people by what I did, I giving up reading (for pleasure) for good. I do not understand than divided.” was sentenced to three and a half years for robbery and as the mentality of people who destroy other people’s pleasure LIFT leading individuals for- bad as it sounds, I really needed the prison time. I am cur- Page 23 for the sake of their own. What would possess someone to rip ward together concentrates rently at Dartmoor which has really supported me to com- the pages from a book? I can only assume that these book-rip- on people in jail we can suc- Information 32-38 pletely turning my crime ridden life around. I am working, pers are as thick as two short planks and are frightened by cessfully say we have cut the completing courses and working well towards a rehabilitative “They are women books, hence the vandalism. At least this time I have been able self-harm rate down in Parc release and a better future. But ultimately not all prisons are who demonstrate to read books all the way through. I suppose the book-rippers and work closely with safer like this one. I have been to HMP Bristol on around five occa- determination are all out of their heads on Spice. and a strong work custody to make sure we are sions and every time I am stuck in a disgusting place waiting ethic.” seeing everyone who needs day by day to get transferred. The screws are horrible, they Page 34 Book boggling us. We are now getting don’t care at all and only care about making your life hell. Legal 39-43 John Jones - HMP Kirklevington Grange self-referrals and PCO refer- Every single wing is cockroach-ridden, waking up to find 3-4 On hearing that I had enrolled on a City & Guilds course in rals. We also just launched roaches in bed with you, not the type of cuddle you’d like! “Victims can horticulture, my son, unbeknown to me, ordered and paid for a The LIFT Build a Bear work- now request Drugs go unnoticed and illicit contraband and mobile phones book to be sent to me that he thought might be useful. So, I shop where inmates can a summary from are openly used in front of officers, hot-watering of fellow in- was surprised to get a handwritten note shoved under my door the Parole learn to make bears out of mates is at an all-time high, as I have witnessed about 10 in Page 39 which read - ‘Book in Reception but you won’t be able to have it Board.” origami to take their mind the 5 times I’ve been in Bristol. I am no inspector, but it due to the fact it was ordered through the wrong company. Sort off things. doesn’t take an intelligent criminal to realise HMP Bristol Jailbreak 44-56 your visitors to collect it’. In reception I was shown Annex 1 of needs serious help. There is literally no rehabilitative support PSI 30/2013 headed ‘Sending and handing in of books to “Roses are red, All workbooks and projects at all - 23 and a half hours of bang up every day with some prisoners’ which was stuck on a wall about knee-height beside violets are blue, days lock up all day. I am now working well at turning my life a desk. It stipulates that books could only be sent in from 6 inmates do get added to this special mes- around at HMP Dartmoor but for the rest of my life I will named and approved retailers. I was then told that I should their PNomis to show they sage goes out to never forget HMP Bristol and as it is my local prison I will do Page 46 arrange with my next visitor to collect the book as they leave. are engaging with Fallons you...” as much as I can to never be inside again, I am sure anyone And, if I wished, a subsequent visitor could bring it back in and I Thoughts self-help project. who has been there will agree! could have it issued to me as the rules allowed. Is com- Which is the main charity mon-sense not allowed to be used in prisons nowadays? above LIFT. Fallons Thoughts incorporating Explosive books LIFT limited company num- A prisoner’s father ber 11722637. We have also Last week my wife went to hand in some books on philosophy implemented yoga. Fallons and science to our youngest son at Elmley, who is not just a Thoughts helps youngsters university student but also a voracious reader. My wife was stay away from gangs, drugs informed that no more books could be handed in as they were and violence and to stop bul- a ‘fire hazard’! It was ok, however, if he ordered them from the lying. I’m hoping to work prison supplier. Likewise, a couple of weeks ago I tried to hand alongside the probation and in some pads of blank and graph paper, only to be told that police with this upon re- they could not be handed in because he could order them via lease. I would also like to Argos. No such items exist in the Argos catalogue! It seems like point out I suffer from au- the acting governor can arbitrarily change rules established by tism that’s why I got LIFT his predecessor, on which we have relied for almost 18-months. As a group of roughly 10 relatives and friends, we are all horrified going as people suffer in si- at the shocking shutting-down of lifelines which help maintain lence and they are not alone. our son’s sanity. My 90-year old mother has had books lining Also, can I thank Jo Wheat- the walls of every room in her house for over 60-years, and not ley for all her help and one of them has ever exploded or spontaneously combusted. support. Contributing to Mailbag If you would like to contribute to Mailbag, please send your letters to the address on the left. It is very important that you ensure the following details are on all paperwork sent to Inside Time: YOUR NAME, PRISON NUMBER & PRISON. Failure to do so will prevent us responding to you and your submission being withheld from publication. Please note letters for publication may be edited. ‘Mailbag’, We will be using the new ‘Money Transfer Service’ for prize money so include Inside Time, your DOB on your entries. 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We may need to forward your letter and/or documents to Prison Service HQ or Write to: • 13 St.John Street MANCHESTER M3 4DQ another appropriate body for comment or advice, therefore only send informa- • 15 Old Bailey LONDON EC4M 7EF tion you are willing to have forwarded on your behalf. 4 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2019
Star Letter of the Month Prisoners Needs Jim won’t fix it, Mailbites Congratulations to this months winner who receives Assessment our £25 prize but Rory might Tony Joyce - HMP Littlehey Tell the truth HMPPS! Steven Johnson - HMP Altcourse Evan Prevett - HMP Lewes I recently undertook 11 hours of assessment for Kaizen. I must say that when I first saw Rory Stewart on Lately, everywhere I look I see HMPPS’s new This then produces a Pris- television claiming to sort out the jail system buzz phrase; ‘improving lives, changing oner Needs Assessment within one year or resign… I almost wee’d in futures.’ What a load of tosh! Let’s look at it a (PNA) by an assessor. Much my pants laughing and thought he best be bit more closely - we are banged up for of it was misrepresented and handing in his resignation straight away! 22-hours a day, in 10x8 cells, two to a cell, trainee psychologist diag- eating meals next to an unscreened toilet, nosed. I sent a copy to my However, I’m a fine one for saying “never earning an hourly wage per week, and seeing solicitor for her parole re- judge a book by its cover” and not listening our families twice a month. My life doesn’t feel ports (Rule 39). I was asked to my own advice… as I feel he might just ‘improved’. And what of the future? A cut- for another copy by my pro- have the balls to pull it off and make a com- ting-edge offending behaviour programme bation officer, apparently plete sap out of me. That is if what I’ve read has taught me to ‘count to ten’ when I get “Gizz a bed Guv…” programmes and probation becomes true about housing inmates being angry and, of course, I have my £46 discharge don’t liaise, I wonder why? released from prison. grant to look forward to next year…things are looking up. Not. Wheelie bins treated better! As probation is not Rule 39, I “It’s about time someone realised couldn’t seal the 32-page Arron Hoey - HMP Winchester that kicking us out onto the streets Systemic judicial failure sensitive document. I in- A prisoner’s mother cluded a letter about my undoes all the good work and train- Having read the letter, ‘In full judicial agree- The whole system is a failure - letting a recovering class concerns. It seems that any ing prisons provide us with to better A-drug addict out of prison with nowhere to live and £46 in his ment’ (January issue), I am also in full agree- letter sent to probation is succeed.” pocket - what a joke! Try dealing with the reality of climbing first vetted by Programmes ment with the sentiments regarding the flawed into a sleeping bag at night to keep warm and try to sleep to- jury system. I would like to add that the jurors through the censor’s office. A positive start by Rory Stewart and none too tally sober - not happening - even if it’s just a few tins on the seem to be swayed or biased by the media The PNA was removed at soon, as I’m getting old and thought I’d first night to help you get ya head down. You know by night hype and ‘catchphrases’ used by the prosecut- source, she only received the never see the day when the government real- two it’s whatever knocks you for six the best - there, you’ve ing side. Add this to an incomplete police letter, why? My parole is ap- ised there was a way to stop offending be- failed - day two of being out of prison. I was 40 years old in investigation and, to repeat a phrase, a proaching. My probation of- haviour by helping homelessness. I crossed January and it’s killing me, I prefer it in prison than outside. ‘witch-hunt’ in the case of sexual crimes ficer wants me out after 18 this bridge with the Home Office back in 2011 allegations and the result is a complete bias of years. Programmes over the and it’s taken this long for someone like Rory one person’s word over the others. A few I got a light sentence of 12 weeks for a commercial burglary, years have been nothing but Stewart to come along and pay some attention. early guilty plea and all that but, I still think 12 weeks, do 6 obstructive, even anally re- suggested words and phrases can easily destroy many lives. I too have no faith in the weeks, isn’t enough time for catch 22 housing to find any- tentive. They want a regular Rory, can you also please pay attention to ‘justice system’ and believe many wrongly where. I wonder if the system will fail me again! Also, think source of income by keeping prosecution cases that are being tried on convicted people are in prison at a great cost about this, any new build, let’s just say anything built in the inmates in, it seems, in con- persons because of their previous convic- last 5-10 years has a little house on the side of said new build flict with the rest of the sys- tions and not because they have committed to themselves and society. Little wonder the and this delightful little house is for the wheelie bins to live tem who want long-termers an offence. Laws are being abused by both prisons are overflowing. in. Heaven forbid they might get wet and cold, or feel unsafe. out. the police and the CPS and it needs to stop. If Jeremy Kyle can use lie detectors on na- No example in the Commons Shouldn’t these bodies all Bloody wheelie bins are housed no questions before any Brit- tional television, then why can’t an innocent Mark Wrightwick - HMP The Verne ish man being released from prison. Some of these little work for the same goal? Dis- person use one to stop being jailed for crimes buildings, I’d love to make it my own - ha! - whereas your rupting communication by he/she didn’t commit? The way MPs behave in the House of wheelie bin, tucked up nice and safe in their little houses, tampering with mail is not Commons is disgraceful. People in prison ha-ha! The wheelie bins of the UK have had it right off. just levelled at the rank and When will the police stop harassing people show more respect for each other than MPs file in prison. Probation too, do. They should be made to visit prisons to see They’ve blagged free housing from their local council! because they are ‘known’? Surely this makes should be Rule 39. rehabilitation impossible and explains how to treat each other. When someone where all our pounds, shillings and pence is stands up in the House to say something, DAVIES & JONES being wasted. A better justice system is members of the party opposite shout them ASN LAW needed that is fair to all and not one from the down and make hand signals at the person SOLICITORS ‘Jim’ll Fix It’ era! talking. This example shown by the ‘honoura- SOLICITORS ble’ members is in no way honourable. If it is Anthony Stokoe Joel Binns okay to act the way they do, then how on Rasheed Nujeerallee Specialising in So many people with mental health issues. And lack of drugs to provide a chemical bal- earth can they criticise anyone else or make Independent Prison Law Criminal Defence and ance in the brain. You need to take your the rules of this country? I believe they should Expert since 1994 Prison Law hand out of the doctors backside and allow lead by example but the example they show ‘People Before Profit’ O f f e r i n g them to prescribe more freely especially in the world is shameful. There really is some- prison, then treatment can begin in the be- thing very wrong with the United Kingdom. It Continuing the Fight and Challange haviourist approach. starts at the top. Despite Legal Aid Cuts N a t i o n w i d e S e r v i c e Straight advice/representation • All Criminal Court Proceedings for Male and Female Prisoners Janine Doolan • Parole Applications Deton Solicitors Dedicated Adjudications Lifer/IPP Specialist • Licence Recall DEFENDING YOUR CAUSE!!! Prison Law Recall Parole Judicial Reviews Experienced Representation in Prison Law, Solicitor Mental Health Law Expert • Appeals Criminal Defence and Appeal & Reviews North West • Adjudications Human Rights - European & International • Independent Adjudications Based • Appeals against conviction and sentence Cat A Reviews Contact • Challenges to sentence calculations (will represent Pre-tariff Sift/Hearings • Re-categorisation & knock backs appeals (Private) Nationwide) David Rees or Simon Palmer • ROTL applications and appeals (Private) • Judicial Review Legal Aid: Write to: Suite 8, Vine House, Davies & Jones • Parole review IPP & lifers • Parole reviews for recall - PAROLE Janine Doolan, 143 London Road, 32 The Parade, Roath, • Crown/Magistrate Court Representation - RECALL 54 St James • Confiscation of Assets and Forfeiture Cases Kingston KT2 6NH - ADJUDICATIONS Street, Cardiff, CF24 3AD Liverpool We also handle Personal Injury Compensation Claims - CAT A REVIEWS L1 0AB Tel: 029 2046 5296 For Prompt representation call William or Mo on - PRE TARIFF 020 8549 4282 or 24 Hour Emergency Number: 0208 617 0120 or 0757 240 1468 EXPIRY REVIEWS Alternatively please write to: - PAROLE / RECALL NATIONWIDE SERVICE 079 7096 9357 0151 3622421 28 Portland Road, South Norwood, London SE25 4PF SPECIALIST 07842 996400 Insidetime March 2019 ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Mailbag 5 Mental health EMAP service The cost of a life unavailable? Atmosphere Processor barriers TJ Walker - HMP Whatton Terry Coleman - HMP Leicester A prisoner’s mother Dean Heron - HMP Onley We are all in prison for a reason (many are innocent I will I don’t know what the pay structure is like in My son has been moved to most jails, but here in Leicester I find myself HMP Doncaster and I have add). Most work for very little wages. I don’t, I’m unem- One thing I have really struggled with in on a measly wage of £10 per week as the prison is mental health. I was diagnosed now been told that I can only ployed, but that doesn’t stop me when I’m focussed with a wing orderly/painter. with emotionally unstable personality disor- use EMAP to send letters, positive mental attitude. If I’m lucky I get on the education der before coming to prison. Whilst I’ve been but the reply service is not courses, it benefits me, and recently I did the AIMS level 2 in As far as I’m concerned, £10 per week is not inside, I’ve noticed there isn’t any help or available here. It’s available environmental sustainability. The certificate isn’t worth any- support for mental health sufferers, and very everywhere else, so is it be- thing to an employer, but the course has opened my eyes to enough to survive on. Inmates who smoke little understanding. cause this is a private prison? doing something good. far outnumber the minority of non-smokers Everyone I meet in visits tells by about 80%. A smoker will use approxi- One part of my condition is really bad anxi- me it’s just Doncaster, they Prison is a nasty place, so using the library has been a com- mately 2 packs of vapes per week at a price of ety. I have basically done 10-months locked keep asking but nothing fort for me, I’ve read books on environmental issues and now around £8, this leaves a paltry £2. And that behind my door because I have been robbed, ever happens about it. This I want to take the next step when I’m released. With all the pretty much buys you nothing. So, what beaten up and had prison-made shanks is not fair as it stops us keep- recent media coverage on climate change and David Atten- about toiletries, phone credits, birthday pulled on me, which has made my condition ing in touch. Is the prison borough at Davos speaking about these on-going issues, I cards, writing materials, stamps, etc? worse, to where it has resulted in me just trying to save money? want to join campaigners to help reduce climate change. self-harming. I am on an ACCT, which I don’t They don’t allow photo ser- Most of you will say “what’s the point?” Many think nothing This system encourages inmates to go to the vices either. Can somebody mind, but the part I find hard is the ACCT re- can be done to stop climate change. ‘barons’ and borrow at the rate of 2 to 1. view. This is because officers doing the re- please tell me why every When they find they cannot pay the return view come to my cell and ask me to go to the prison doesn’t have the I’m working on an atmosphere processor that takes carbon rate they either get threatened, beaten or office for my review. The problem is that they same things available for dioxide, nitrogen oxide, methane and PM 2.5 and using a forced to pay by some other means. This usu- do it when the other inmates are out, and I prisoners and their families plasma chamber, by way of a CVD - Chemical Vapour Deposi- ally results in outside charges, self-isolation actually can’t leave the cell when it’s like and some prisoners are hav- and, at worst, an attempt at suicide. that because of my anxiety. They think I’m ing to pay more than others? tion, the results are nitrogen / oxygen (air), clear water but just being difficult but I’m not, it’s a mental also vapour can be turned into a solid to create carbon for barrier. EMAP response carbon fibre, even graphene batteries for electric cars. The All of the above comes at a cost. How much The basic E Mail A Prisoner same process can create diamonds for jewellery, medical does it cost for a bus to court? How much for I try explaining to them that if someone service operates in all prisons equipment, it’s semi-conductors can be use in robotic tech- the trial? How much a lost cell space due to needed a walking-aid to get about, would now, private and public. The nology as well. self-isolation, and more importantly the cost you take it away from them? The only differ- reply and photo services are of a life due to the relentless pursuit of debt? ence between me and that person is that you options available in all estab- Prison has allowed me to gain an education that I can use on can normally see their disability, you can’t lishments and there is no cost my release. Forget working for someone else, I’ve got a crimi- I believe that if a £15 weekly minimum wage involved to the prison. We see mine. nal record, so I want to do my own start-up. In time I hope to was introduced you would see a reduction in will contact HMP Doncaster be successful and with my autism I never give up. If I can violence. It would also reduce debt and stop again to make them aware Jail is stressful for everyone and there are a campaign to get ministers to listen to my ideas, whether the of this request. excessive costs due to the consequences of lot of people here with mental health prob- atmosphere processor, or autism rights in prison, I will do my debt and help a large percentage of prisoners lems, so surely there should be more help, This letter is also waiting for a part. Too many of us give up, don’t, if you believe - you can live a debt-free sentence. Surely that’s worth support and understanding? response from HMPPS. achieve. the cost?
JAMES’ STORY...
Inmate James’ top bunk didn’t have a safety rail; he rolled and fell 5 feet onto an unforgiving concrete floor fracturing his pelvis.
Unfortunately, the subsequent operation failed because a collapsed screw underpinning the fracture went undetected.
Through no fault of his own James had to endure considerable pain for several months. We sued the prison and the NHS on his behalf for personal injury and negligence. In the end, James was awarded £30,000.
James is just one of many prisoners Jefferies Solicitors have successfully represented over the years.
You may not have your freedom but you still have your rights. YOU could be entitled to make a claim for personal injury caused by trips, burns, gym or workplace accidents or dental and clinical negligence.
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Don’t feel sorry point - it is the dog searching them.’ Mailbites Upskirting for DHL staff Andrew Hawke - HMP Swansea So, according to the governor, a strange male One rule for us… Name withheld - instructing females to lift up their skirt and open their legs and then sending a dog in to R Bagnall - HMP Littlehey HMP Holme House To say I am incredulous would be an under- statement, so I feel I am obligated to make sniff between their legs is fine. Am I being I am in prison and a pensioner. My state pension, which is not a unreasonable to suggest that this is, at the In response to the corre- the world aware of the disgusting search ‘benefit’ but something that I have contributed to for all of my very least, degrading? It could be considered spondent who wrote of a ‘cli- practises here at Swansea. working life, has been stopped. Yet a Member of Parliament, as sexual harassment. My partner is not a mate of fear at DHL’, ‘fear’ is Fiona Onasanya, who lied through her teeth in an attempt to criminal or a prisoner, yet just visiting me not the issue. Sure, if a box Prior to visiting, security staff require all vis- pervert the course of justice and who has been found guilty means she feels humiliated and intimidated. of vapes goes missing or a itors to go through a completely humiliating and sent to prison, is not only allowed to keep her job as an MP few lollies are nicked then and reprehensible practise with the sniffer but is also being paid her £77,000 a year salary whilst in prison! I feel very angry about this and consider it this results in a warning for dogs. I am only concerned with the way they She can not perform her duties as an MP while in prison and should be put to the MoJ for an answer as to all the DHL staff - you might search females and I honestly believe it is she should not be allowed to draw a wage for a job she is not how they can try to justify this policy. lose your bonus! But there very close to sexual harassment. doing. Justice? What a joke! are bigger issues. Put sim- HMPPS response ply, there is a lot of incompe- My partner was on her period last week and Each and every Prison Dog deployed within Growing old waiting tence amongst DHL staff. came to visit me. When she came into the the Prison estate by an Officer of the Service Brent Healey - HMP Garth Simple processes are done visiting room she was very upset and told me will have a current Certificate of Accredita- inconsistently across the lines that the male dog-handler told her to sit on a I’ve had years of scanning the news and prison notice boards tion. All Prison Dogs and their Handlers will in the workshop, but the staff chair and to lift her dress up and open her half-expecting to see something about a concerted drive on are too busy laughing and legs as wide as the legs of the chair. He then be managed and deployed in a manner that rehabilitation, or a coordinated new scheme that helps joking, often with prisoners sent the dog in to sniff between her legs. contributes to the effective security of the es- prisoners into a decent job, accommodation and perhaps gives who are not pulling their tablishment. Passive Drug Detection Dogs us a lump sum grant in order to help us back on our feet when weight, to notice or intervene. I was infuriated by this. Apart from the in- should be deployed in line with PSI 20/2011 we are released. However, the only thing that comes even dignity of doing this to women who have (currently under revision). Prior to any opera- remotely close to this abstract idea of rehabilitation is maybe Bar a couple of exceptions, committed no crime and just want to visit tional use of the seated search process all pas- one of the small scale back-to-work pilot projects that we the staff have no idea how to their loved ones is bad enough, but we are sive drug dog teams must be assessed as occasionally read about in Inside Time, but that never seems to manage a large group, and it all aware that if there were any drugs on competent in this method by a Security Group get rolled out nationwide. Fortunately for me, one thing that I is often down to a handful of people the dog would be able to smell it from approved assessor. have learned from my many years wasted in prison is that the prisoners to make up for a standing position. nobody will ever hand us the future that we are dreaming of. their shortcomings, or cor- With effect from April 2009 the seated search We need to go out there and get it for ourselves or we will grow rect mistakes made by the She then informed me that they next got the method has been a mandatory requirement old waiting for the prison system to give it to us! staff. It is only down to the dog to go behind her and the dog-handler for all passive drug dog teams within the li- fact that there is a core of encouraged the dog to jump up with its paws censing procedure. We’re doing it already harder-working prisoners on my visitor’s shoulders. She obviously was David Brown - HMP Wymott that the work gets done. Oth- not expecting any of this, let alone a dog The circumstances described would not gen- jumping on her. erally be considered as normal practice for I noticed that on page 3 of the February issue of Inside Time erwise canteens would not dog handlers and passive search dogs em- there was an article regarding Pets as Therapy, by ‘Belinda be getting to their locations My partner was crying because of the com- ployed and trained by HMPPS. The seated - prison commentator’. Here at Wymott the scheme is already even remotely correctly. Climate of fear? No. Failure plete shock and humiliation. This is happen- search process is viewed as an additional running and has been since September 2018. It is a very ing to every female visitor, and a lot of positive scheme and is proving very successful. of management? Yes. method that may be used under some circum- people are unhappy with this new practice. stances to enable a passive drug dog team to Surely the clue is in the name - these are carry out a more effective search. Any action ‘Passive Drug Dogs’ and should not be jump- on a positive indication will be in line with ing on people? And the dog-handler should local establishment policy. definitely not be telling females to lift up their skirts and open their legs. During assessment for licensing the assessor will need to hear the brief that handlers give I complained in a COMP1 and was told by the to visitors. Handlers are assessed for using ap- governor - ‘The dog handlers have recently re- propriate language to place visitors and staff turned from their training and these are the in the correct position for searching. An In- methods they’ve been told to follow. In rela- spectorate Team independently conduct li- tion to opening their legs, they ARE requested Prison Law Experts / Legal 500 Recommendation censing and audit of all dog handlers to do so but not as wide as to be demeaning nationally and ensure standards expected are which would be inappropriate. The dog jumps abided by. Any actions that need to be com- Nationwide Coverage - in-house video link facilities available on the back of the chair to search the rear of pleted as a consequence of audit may result in the individual and sometimes the dog’s paws loss of license renewal, additional training touch the person, which is unavoidable occa- and/or internal investigation. Specialist advice on sionally. As for your point that a male dog handler can ask a female visitor to follow I hope this will suffice. Unfortunately, we are parole reviews these instructions IS appropriate as the dog police interviews unable to comment on any specific case. recalls criminal appeals handler is not touching the person at any extradition adjudications criminal defence con scation & proceeds of crime NATIONWIDE PRISON COVERAGE Members of the Association of Prison Lawyers Our head o ce is based in the North West of England but we provide nationwide coverage and due to the location of our sta we oer regular and consistent coverage Contact our Prison Law Department to the North West, Midlands, London, South West and North East England. • Parole paper reviews and oral hearings • Recall reviews and oral hearings • Removal from open conditions • Pre-Tariff reviews • Category A reviews 01904 431421 • Adjudications [email protected] For more information please contact Jeremy Pinson using the detials below. Howard and Byrne Chestnut Court, 148 Lawrence Street, York YO10 3EB Freepost HOWARDS AND HENRYS 0161 872 9999 - [email protected] - howardssolicitors.co.uk Insidetime March 2019 ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Mailbag 7
Gauke’s onus has shifted heavily from the Prosecu- tion to the Defence when it comes to estab- outlandish lishing a person’s guilt or innocence.
parole proposals I could argue that ‘victimhood’ is a state of Brad Foster - mind and that by recognising someone as a victim you are providing that person with former prisoner the opportunity to avoid dealing with emo- tions that belong to that individual. I could Prisoners may have read re- also argue that by doing so, you are disre- cently that Justice Secretary specting that individual by removing any David Gauke has said vic- real chance that person has of emotional tims of crime in England and © Deposit Photos healing. Wales will now be given new rights to challenge Parole We’re all trafficking An old adage says ‘emotions never decom- Board decisions to release pose, even when you bury them’. No fear of the cliff edge
© Deposit Photos life sentence prisoners and Lee Morgan - HMP Oakwood violent offenders. We are responsible for how we feel, plain I see the way people treat each other and it and simple. Transferring our emotions on to Brexit will be great! causes me great pain. There is a lot of vio- Instead of having to go to other persons is simple avoidance. Whether lence and assaults in our prison system, Name withheld - HMP Ford court and challenge deci- we blame others for our feelings; whether we from both prisoners and staff. Whether or sions by way of judicial re- transfer emotions or whether we simply su- not they are aware of this negative interac- press and bury them, we are doing ourselves I am a firm Brexit supporter and I am looking forward to view, victims will now be March 29th when we leave the EU, it has been thirty-three tion is not important. The reality is that we a disservice, and, in the longer term, a great able to apply to the MoJ to months since the referendum and we just need to get on with treat each other badly. deal of harm. It is unhealthy to absolve our- appeal against decisions. it. Boris Johnson and Jacob Rees-Mogg are both right to be selves of emotions. This outlandish and unlaw- vocal about how the time is right to take back control of our I read something recently which made me laws, borders, immigration and step out into the world free to ful change in policy has stop and think, it was along the lines of, ‘we I am not responsible for how you feel. How make our own trade deals. Just look at Trump in America - he come about following the sometimes get angry for being held up in could I possibly be so? Your emotions are is looking out for America putting its interests first and it ap- public outcry last year. traffic, but fail to recognise that we are, in generated within your brain. I am not in your pears to be working. fact, traffic ourselves’. The same could be brain; therefore, I cannot be responsible for The Secretary of State for said for our attitude towards other people in anything created there. I may provide a stim- We need to stop propping up the European council / commis- Justice is by this action ef- our dealings with them. We are all people ulus (or a trigger) of some description, but sion with massive budget contributions, along with Germany fectively reducing the role of and therefore all responsible. you are ultimately responsible for how you and France we are the largest contributor and the EU are the Parole Board to that of respond, emotionally. scared that if our divorce deal goes well, other countries will an advisory panel which rec- Emotions are something of an unknown quantity for many people. We are almost pre- follow. There is unrest throughout Europe with the slowdown ommends rather than “di- I wanted to make these points perfectly clear disposed to blame others for our emotions, in economies, high unemployment and immigration. Just rects” release. In practice it because I feel we are in danger of separating when, in truth, they belong to us and we ourselves from the responsibility of our emo- look at the recent riots in France - the yellow vests were com- will effectively return the re- should own them. We exist today, more than tions and this is a recipe for disaster. Believe plaining about higher fuel costs, higher rents due to immi- lease mechanism for inde- grants and that wages were no longer allowing working ever, in a blame-culture. This has now re- me, it is only the thin end of the wedge to terminate sentences back people to have a decent life and the same is happening here ceived legal backing in a sense because the come, if we are not careful. into the hands of the in Britain. The UK has for too long apologised for once having executive. an empire and we need to stop trying to be so politically cor- rect and if it’s not in our interests then maybe we need to of- fend a few countries. Such arbitrary action is in- compatible with article 5(4) C r o w n I find it amusing when I hear that we are going to fall off a of ECHR which requires de- cliff edge and the world is going to stop. We had all this hype cisions regarding detention D E F E N C E S O L I C I T O R S around the millennium bug and it passed by without a hitch, post tariff/minimum term to it’s a scare tactic. Yes, there is going to be disruption but not be carried out by a court like on a biblical scale the politicians, especially Labour would body with the powers re- have us believe. We are a far more important trading partner quired by such a court (see, than the EU cares to admit, we are the seventh largest econ- Thynne, Wilson and Gunnel omy in the world, we import far more than Britain exports, so v UK [1990] 1WLR 134). are the other twenty-seven countries going to stop selling us Contact goods and hurt their economies further? Of course they are It is also unlawful under not, France is still going to sell us cheese and wine, Germany 0121 392 8000 s116 of LASPO 2012 which is going to sell us as many Mercedes or BMW’s as we want, stipulates that the Parole Greece is still going to sell us olive oil and Italy is not going to Email stop us from buying Parma ham or olives. Board ‘directs’ rather than [email protected] recommends release. The Irish backstop is just the EU’s way of keeping us via the Freepost backdoor, border or no border the peace process is down to For a legal challenge to be Crown Solicitors the people who have kept it since the Good Friday deal was successful it must be agreed and it will continue whether we are part of the EU or brought by someone await- not, again its just a scare tactic. There are several countries ing release as they would with no hard border between them and an EU member state, have clearer standing. so the technology is there - we just need to get up to speed and implement it. Rather than spending thirteen million on My advice to any and all lif- Reduced by over 99.9%from £196 million to £107,000 more ships to bring in freight we should spend it on this in- ers is that if a challenge is frastructure in Northern Ireland. not brought against this pol- icy, we could be dragged The twenty-seven-member states have been bullying us since back 30 years to a system the negotiations began - trying everything in their power to whereby Parole Boards were keep us in a sinking club, with unelected high paid officials merely consulted by the Jus- who have an influence over our daily lives. We are a strong nation and Macron, Merkel and Varadkar will cave in at the tice Secretary as to the suita- twelfth hour and give us the concessions the Prime Minister bility of prisoners for release is demanding to get a bill through parliament and the UK on parole. Think hard and will leave on the 29th with a deal. Then watch the EU over act to prevent this from the next few years - ours will just be the start of the divorces. happening. www.crowndefence.com 0121 392 8000 No one can whistle a symphony... page 23 Andrew Sperling page 19 8 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2019 Keyworker TERS explained scheme Mark Repin - HMP Warren Hill Chris Goetze - HMP Highpoint TERS is the Tariff Expired Removal Scheme. If you are identi- fied an IFNP “Indeterminate Foreign National Prisoner” you will be considered automatically for removal from the UK I am serving a determinate under the TERS scheme. TERS is mandatory for all IFNP’s sentence and looking to fin- who must be considered by the Public Protection Casework ish my sentence here, as I’ll (PPCS) under the scheme. The scheme only applies to those more than likely never be prisoners identified as IFNP serving sentences for public pro- granted a D-Cat. Highpoint tection or life. Determinate sentenced prisoners continue to have now introduced a “key- be entitled to apply for removal under ERS /FRS - Early Re- worker” scheme which I am moval Scheme; Facilitated Removal Scheme. By definition being told is mandatory and Grayling, May and Gove: “We all want out” IFNP’s can only be removed if immigration is able to effect © Deposit Photos I have to engage with them removal. 18 months prior to the expiry of the TED, (Tariff Ex- as they are there to help me piry Date) the process to consider your removal will com- progress. This to me seems a mence. Your case will be passed to the head of casework who Brexit and miscarriages of justice complete waste of my time will then decide your suitability for removal under the scheme. and that of the staff allo- Tony Yallop - HMP Peterborough cated to spend time with me Can I be refused removal under TERS? Reasons for refusal when they could be put to to remove under TERS include confiscation order / proceed- Is it a coincidence that some of the most sen- Then, the cherry on the cake - slash prison better use attempting to ings against the prisoner, the prisoner has outstanding ior members of our government who worked funding at a time when it is needed most, bringing the system to breaking point. Then achieve and maintain the charges against them, the prisoner is serving a sentence for for the MoJ are Brexiteers? Is it any coinci- there is the question of how to remedy this safety of the prison. In my terrorist related offences, there is evidence the prisoner is dence that the most important red line that situation. Here are some more things they opinion there are three planning further offences, or to evade immigration controls Theresa May will not compromise on in any Brexit deal is to end the European Court of have done: things that are needed to re- and return to the UK unlawfully and the removal of the pris- Justice’s supremacy over English law? Well, duce the rate of re-offending oner would undermine the confidence of the public in the if you look at the facts the answer must sim- Make the CCRC ineffective. Pretend there is (if this is actually the goal of Criminal Justice System. ply be ‘No’. no problem. Make a token gesture and re- the keyworker scheme), they view only rape cases. Change data protection are housing, employment Can I be forcibly removed under TERS? The simple answer Michael Gove, Chris Grayling and Theresa laws making it impossible for people to ex- and money, and since none is yes you can, unlike ERS / FRS which is the system set up by the Ministry of Justice, TERS is mandatory. A prisoner can May have all been instrumental in the han- pose the problem through this legislation of these can actually be pro- however challenge the legitimacy of their removal through dling of the police and MoJ since 2010. Since like what was achieved in another one of vided, I can only assume the the courts. Legal Aid is available for such challenges. Re- then the Conservative mantra has been to Theresa May’s hostile environment scandals scheme has been introduced moval will not ordinarily occur until all legal measures have make tough choices and reverse the wrongs - the Windrush affair. as yet another HMP box-tick- been fully exhausted. of New Labour with plenty of austerity, but ing process. As a determi- at what cost? Answer: The justice system. Then, when all other sectors of the Civil Ser- nate sentence prisoner, I am What happens if I return to the UK after being removed? vice are rewarded with tiny pay increases, making progress every day If you return to the UK after being removed under TERS you Here are the facts - just as the legal aid sys- they propose to increase pay for judges by a as my release date is getting will be re-arrested under s.32b crime sentences Act 1997. You tem was savaged, some other equally cata- whopping 33%! Why? You might well ask. closer so why can’t I opt out will be treated as if you are still serving until such time that strophic calamities were unleashed by this Well, how else can this government cover up of the keyworker scheme? you are released by either the Parole Board or further removed. Conservative government. Police funding all these issues and make the Appeal Court was cut, allowing the police to deliberately so ineffective it is not fit for purpose. hide behind their pretend shield that be- SPECIALISTS IN PRISON LAW, PAROLE DELAYS, cause of lack of funding they were unable to The Court of European Justice is the only EQUALITY CLAIMS, PERSONAL INJURY, investigate cases effectively, leading to the thing left in the way of this draconian gov- Kesar & Co ernment. A court that believes in natural jus- CLINICAL NEGLIGENCE, IMMIGRATION, current disclosure crisis. S O L I C I T O R S CRIMINAL APPEALS AND DEFENCE. tice. No sensitive unused schedules without Then, in 2012, Statutory Instruments were the use of Special Counsel, full disclosure, We are the prison law specialist with combined laid before Parliament with overriding objec- and is opposed to the use of participating in- formants who instigate crime on behalf of experience totalling more than 40 years. tives to progress cases expeditiously and ef- ficiently, making all participants involved the police, get to keep all the money, avoid Parole hearings Recall to prison rectify any procedural steps rather than jail, lie and send innocent people to prison in IPP Category A reviews what should be done - dismiss cases for place of themselves, then simply carry on Excessive use of force Disability discrimination abuse of process. and renew the cycle. Police interviews Criminal appeals Sentence calculations Unlawful detention Bring in a new Director of Public Prosecu- Is this why the Conservative members who tions and then slash her budget, giving free worked/work in the Home Office and the MoJ APPEALS PAROLE COMPENSATION reign to progress cases to trial with no so badly want Brexit? Don’t take my word for checks or balances, thus allowing the charg- it, look at the facts, delve into it, then decide. If you feel that your defence We are the Parole Hearing CLAIMS ing of offenders with no scrutiny of unused Or are you all content to be part of an indus- team did not do enough specialists with experience We can assist with claims evidence. try with no complaints department? or that your sentence is totalling more than 40 years! for parole delay, personal unduly harsh, maybe our We will get you an oral hearing injury, clinical and dental team can review your case? and work with you to ensure negligence as well as Our commitment and service to you, does not that you can either progress claims based on age, stop when you leave the dock. Reeds solicitors We have an experienced or get released. disability, religion, race, are dedicated to providing legal expertise along and dedicated team who sexual orientation etc. with unparalleled client care. This service also have successfully appealed In special cases we take active No win-no fee and includes issues you may experience in custody. a number of cases at the steps to have you released legal aid available. Our Prison Law Team are able to offer advice and assistance under the Legal Aid Scheme for the following issues: Court of Appeal. into rehab as an alternative to open conditions. Determine/ IPP Recall Parole Independent Adjudications Sentence Calculations Pre-Tariff Reviews Cat A Reviews CSC Reviews We specialise in di cult cases Our experienced Solicitors also offer competitive fixed fees for general Prison Law matters including: for lifers and IPP prisoners Re-categorisation Sentence Planning and, when possible, we do not hesitate to challenge refusals Contact our team now by calling 01865 592670 or write to us calling our Freepost address: Registered with by applications for judicial review. emailaprisoner RTXS-CHLX-SYRC - Reeds Solicitors - 403 Silbury Boulevard - MILTON KEYNES - MK9 2AH
Contact us in writing at: Kesar & Co Solicitors, 2nd Floor, 20-25 Market Square, Bromley, BR1 1NA Or by telephone on: 020 8181 3100 Insidetime March 2019 ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Mailbag 9
On the Good Wire Action needed No holiday camp Mailbites The Phantom G - HMP Parc Sam Little - HMP Woodhill No matches Human kindness Regarding ‘Stop your moan- Mark Davies - HMP Birmingham Wayne Moroney - HMP Dovegate Like many others, I am sick and tired of writ- ing’ by Trevor Young (Febru- ing to MPs and Ministers and then being ary issue), I would like to say I recently applied to the Burnbake Trust for I have never sent in a letter before but felt I had to write as a lot passed on to the MoJ so they can fob me off. you are absolutely correct, some art materials. These items were for me to of the letters in Inside Time show how bad British prisons have we are in prison and not But- occupy time in my cell as I have an issue with gotten. But I do see the human good in others in this new year. I want real answers to what they are going to lins holiday camp. I would self-harm. My application was successful, and In the previous year I felt lost and hopeless. I am a lifer and you do to correct the injustices done to people have a wild stab in the dark they sent me a bag of matchsticks, glue and tend to get ‘dark times’ and I went to a dark place where I like myself who, wrongly, received an IPP that you, Mister Young, are match-cutters. But then security stepped in wanted to end it all. I started self-harming, something I had not sentence? The sentence was designed to re- in prison for breaking the law saying that these items were ‘not for issue’. done in many years. It got so bad that I had to ask for a Listener. tain people who were prolific offenders who and not just for the banter. These items were sent from a charity that Two Listeners came to my cell and at first, I didn’t know what to kept getting short custodial sentences, and it deals only with prisoners. Also, I had a rosary say, but they were so patient, and I eventually opened up about was in order to give time to deliver the inter- But though you are being bracelet sent to me by a Catholic Chaplaincy, how I was feeling. They listened to what I had to say and ventions they required to break the cycle. punished for breaking the law, but security said it was ‘not for issue’ due to it showed so much kindness. They helped me to see what I had to This is my first custodial sentence and I have staff, governors, Ministers having 10 stones on it, they claimed I might live for and that I had to keep going. So, this is to say a big thank now served 8-years of a 5-year tariff. and others in authority can use it as a knuckleduster! Please can anyone you to the Listeners, thank you so much for your kindness and break the rules, regulations tell me why security are suddenly finding help, you do a great job. “Never having served a previous and Acts with impunity as problems with the most mundane items when ‘We listen’ page 37 custodial sentence, I should not have the rest of us plebs suffer. our prisons are swimming in drugs and mobiles? been given an IPP in the first place. I’m here for many years, in MoJ? More like KGB Life savers Surely it is an admission that the fact decades. I’m attempting Mark Wrightwick - HMP The Verne Jay Chaston - HMP Bronzefield to make life better and, you system does not work if they think an The British justice system is out of control. The never know, my moaning I would like to say a huge thank you to SCU day and night MoJ is getting too big and powerful, it’s starting IPP is warranted for someone who might lead one day to an im- officers here at Bronzefield. Very recently I’ve been suffering to look like the KGB of the 1970’s. It’s about time provement of conditions that with depression, intrusive thoughts and memories due to has never served a prison sentence?” journalists started looking into the failings of you are subjected to. complex PTSD. I attempted to end my life because things got the MoJ, CPS, police and the government. The How can I have a risk of reoffending within far too unbearable for me. SCU officers helped save me from media should be holding them to account, not 12-months if I was on unconditional bail for But, Mister Young, it’s just a ending it all three times recently. The caring way day and night automatically believing the police or the 15-months before I was charged? And in that shame you couldn’t spout staff were was amazing to me. The officers have encouraged verdict at a trial. Mistakes are made. How can time, I committed no offences nor breached your nonsense to the gladia- me to talk instead of doing what I was doing. I really appreciate the CPS charge someone and start a trial any of my sign-on rules. I have always fully tors of the 1990s who fought officers looking out for my welfare. They need recognition for without any evidence? How do the police get adhered to previous community orders, yet to get the system changed. all their continuing efforts. Thank you so much. away with withholding evidence at rape trials? now apparently I cannot be managed in the I’m sure you like having a How do the police get away with charging community. This is all bull shine and a com- proper toilet rather than a men with sex crimes with no evidence at all? Safer custody plete fantasy on their part. plastic pot or bucket, and Charlie Gaskin - HMP Lowdham Grange have you refused to wear Non-judgemental support The government need to admit that I, and your own clothes, have an I would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you many others like me, need our sentences re- in-cell TV, regular showers? Anthony Revill - HMP Whitemoor to all of the Safer Custody team at Lowdham Grange. Whilst I voked and reverted to a standard determi- Do you get the wing staff to May I say a very big ‘thank you’ to our chaplaincy have been in this prison, I have experienced a lot of bullying nate sentence to correct this. No more talk, beat the crap out of you for team and especially the volunteers Jane, Alexis, towards me, mainly for being a Traveller, but the Safer Custody we need action. The abolition of IPP should no good reason? If not, then Pauline, Yvonne, Eileen, Bonita and John. And team have always been there to help me. At first, I felt very have been retrospective and, by it not being you are a lot better off than also, the Kairos volunteers. You are all so inclusive, isolated and scared but once I plucked up the courage to call so, the government knowingly and willingly past British prisoners. welcoming, non-judgemental, supportive and 222, the safer custody number, and talk about my problems, it are abusing our family’s human rights as Prison could and should be down to earth. Your naturally caring and kind felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. well as ours, yet nobody is doing anything better, but it could also be a personalities show through on the wings as Thanks once again, guys, keep up the good work. about it. lot worse. well as in the chapel services/groups.
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Email us on: [email protected] Write to us: 102-108 Borough Road, Call us on: 07469 859 854 available 24/7 Middlesbrough, Teesside TS1 2HJ 69 Ringley Road, Whitefield, Manchester M45 7LH 10 Newsround www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2019
Horizon programme examined Newsbites Inside Time report of some of the modules; giving the programme a consistent pitch; Post-release deaths rise providing more session time on The number of deaths of released prisoners has continued to The Horizon programme is an moving on e.g. disclosure of offences rise. 30% of these deaths have been classed as ‘self-inflicted. intervention delivered to men who and follow-up work; and more There were 300 natural-cause deaths in 2017/18, an increase of have a sexual conviction and are optional one-to-one time. 10% from 2016/17. There were 285 self-inflicted deaths in considered to be at a medium, high 2017/18, an increase of 14% from 2016/17. 149 of the deaths • Staff raised additional concerns were in people under supervision after release from prison. 102 or very high risk of reconviction. The regarding the perception of the programme is delivered in both of these deaths were classified as self-inflicted. There were 11 programme from outside treatment deaths in approved premises. Figures from MoJ custodial and community sites and teams, i.e. parole boards, offender New prisons boss named the Ministry of Justice say it is suitable supervisors etc. as the discussion on risk Asleep on the job for men accepting responsibility for Dr Jo Farrar (above) has been appointed as has been reduced on the programme. A High Court judge has “expressed remorse” after falling asleep their offence and those maintaining the next Chief Executive of HM Prison and during a hearing. Mrs Justice Parker, 68, briefly dozed off during their innocence. A study to gauge the • Staff expressed uncertainty at Probation Service (HMPPS) and will take up a case in London. The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office perceptions of both the staff deliver- selecting the right participants to go her post from 1st April. She replaces Michael (JCIO) statement said: “Mrs Justice Parker has been issued with ing Horizon and the participants on the programme due to the Spurr who held the position for nine years. At formal advice following a complaint by parties in a case that completing the programme took withdrawal of the tool used by staff present, she is Director General for Local she had fallen asleep during a hearing. While concluding that place in 2016 and that study report ‘A to identify risk and protective factors. Government and Public Services at the this amounted to conduct which had the potential to under- Process Study of the Horizon • Both staff and group members Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local mine public confidence in the judiciary, the Lord Chancellor Programme’ has now been published. agreed that a shorter programme like Government. Before that, she served as Chief and the Lord Chief Justice took into consideration that the Horizon was preferable to previous Executive first at Bath and North-East judge fell asleep only momentarily and has expressed remorse Key findings of the study longer programmes, however it was Somerset Council and then at Bridgend for doing so.” The case did not have such severe ramifications • Completion rates for the first felt that some additional sessions County Borough Council. as that of Manchester-based Recorder Philip Cattan, then 65, Horizon programme at the initial would be beneficial in order to who fell asleep whilst presiding over a rape trial in 2014, implementation sites were high, with adequately deliver everything in the Jo Farrar said: “I am hugely honoured by the causing it to collapse. Credit: The Telegraph 83% of those who started the programme. opportunity to lead HMPPS at such an programme completing it. important time. It is a service that is critical • Staff expressed a preference for Out of the frying pan into the fire to protecting the public and helping people • Both staff members and group group members to disclose their A newly enrolled prison officer quit after five days following turn their lives around. Early in my career, participants provided positive conviction(s) to avoid later difficul- being left alone on a wing of HMP Cardiff with, he says, no training. my work in prisons and probation gave me a feedback. Group members identified ties in role play scenarios etc. Group He said he was terrified being inside the prison: “There’s murderers lasting commitment to public service and a that they had increased confidence, members were more divided on in that prison. You’re walking through the workshop and they’ve passion to make a difference. I am delighted greater assertiveness, increased disclosure, suggesting this should be got hammers. In the kitchen they’ve got knives.” The 29-year-old to return. The issues we face in our prisons, problem solving skills and improved discussed and agreed by the group at man has now joined the fire brigade saying he would sooner and the need to put vital probation services relationships following completion of the start of the programme. walk into a burning building than work in a prison. Credit: Mirror the programme. onto a strong footing, are well known. Working alongside the dedicated people in all parts of The research has led to a number of Calls for recorded interviews in Scottish trials • Staff members liked that Horizon HMPPS, I look forward to addressing these recommendations for improvements The Scottish Justice Committee have supported the use of was more strengths based and future challenges and delivering improvement over to Horizon including changes to the pre-recorded evidence in criminal trials. They are calling on the focused than previous treatment the years to come as we create an outstand- delivery order of the modules, Scottish Government to adopt the Scandinavian ‘Barnahus’ programmes. They also praised the ing service of which we can all be proud.” flexibility and responsivity of the improvements to the manual and principles: under this system children have their evidence pre- training, and some additions to recorded by specialist interviewers in special ‘child-friendly’ programme, and that it could be David Gauke MP, Justice Secretary and Lord accessed by those maintaining their programme content. environments which includes wellbeing support. The Committee Chancellor, said: “As HMPPS enters a new want a bill to include child witnesses in High Court, and sheriff innocence. era, under new leadership, I very much look The report was authored for the and jury domestic abuse cases in the first tranche of those forward to working with Jo as we strive to • Both group members and staff Ministry of Justice by Keely Wilkinson eligible for the new measures. They want professionals involved deliver the world-class service to which we made some suggestions for improve- and Beverly Powis and the above are in questioning child and vulnerable witnesses to receive all aspire.” ment; including: changing the order edited extracts from their report. appropriate, trauma-informed training. Credit: Scottish Legal News
The Johnson Partnership Confiscation Specialists “Recent Cases dealt with by MKS LAW “ CROWN COURT Our dedicatedSolicitors prison law team have years of experience - Section 17 responses; R v S and Others – Charged with Murder. All defen- representing prisoners and fighting for their rights. dants found Not Guilty. - Section 23 (variation) applications; R v W and Others – Charged with supply of drugs. Our team ensure all prisoners nationwide can have the - Time to pay applications; Hung Jury. Discharged. best representation available. R v B - Charged with Attempted Murder. Reduced to We have specialist and expert knowledge in the areas of - Third-party interest applications; GBH following negotiation with CPS. parole board proceedings, adjudications and other areas such as HDC and re-categorisation. - Enforcement; PAROLE HEARINGS LICENCE RECALL JM, BH, AL, AM, DC On a legal aid basis we can represent clients for: - Appeals. Clients all released following Parole hearings. Adjudication Before The Judge Licence Recalls APPEALS AGAINST CONVICTION/ SENTENCE Lifer/IPP Reviews Judicial Reviews Cat A Reviews “...a reputation for excellence...” Legal 500 Pre Tarriff Reviews Oral Hearings 1st stage appeals undertaken on private client basis only. We are also able to represent prison law clients on a Contact James O’Hara on 0207 404 3004 CCRC REFERRALS number of other prisons law matters for which or 2nd appeal attempts undertaken privately and some legal aid is not available which include: Legal Aid. Challenging License Conditions Freephone 0800 254 5001 Adjudications Before The Governor ADJUDICATIONS Contact Us For A Quote FA - Client found Not Guilty following positive MTD. Murder, Drugs, Fraud? Facing serious criminal charges? Prison Law Department Face them with the Legal Team that is right for you. Call 0115 9419141 MKS LAW - Suite 19, Unit 9 Liberty 24 Hours a day Centre, Wembley, HA0 1TX 7 days a week 13-16 Elm St, London WC1X 0BL Nottingham Office J Tel: 020 8123 3404 Fax: 020 8181 6512 Cannon Courtyeard P www.ikandp.co.uk Off Long Row MKS LAW Solicitors Nottingham, NG1 6JE [email protected] Criminal Defence Lawyers [email protected] Legal Aid & Private Client OFFICES NATIONWIDE 020 8123 3404 - [email protected] - mslaw.co.uk Insidetime March 2019 www.insidetime.org Newsround 11
Looking Tentative success Newsbites Back... for ten prison project Site chosen for new Glasgow prison through the Inside The Scottish Prison Service’s new £100million Barlinnie ‘super Time archives Prisons Minister Rory Stewart has said that “significant prison’ is likely to be built at Provan, north east Glasgow on March 2007 progress” has been made at the ten prisons where he land owned by the National Grid, and next to Provan promised to cut violence or resign. Six months after the Gasworks, with its iconic storage towers which were granted launch of his £10million project, he claims that things are ‘Listed Status’ last year. The new prison will be double the size getting better; the introduction of significant additional Books for all! of the current one which in January was 130% overcrowded. security measures at the prisons to tackle the influx of drugs Rows continue over the fate of the gas towers but the Prison which fuel violence, as well as investment in leadership and World Book Day, 7th March, Service hope to resolve these so that they can start work on the building refurbishment he says has been a success. is the biggest celebration new HMP Glasgow as soon as possible. of reading for pleasure in New scanners have now been the country. Since 2017, Enhanced checks for cab drivers installed at the ten prisons which WBD has sent their special Anyone wishing to work as a taxi or minicab driver will face can detect invisible traces of £1 World Book Day books new enhanced criminal record checks under possible new drugs, including psychoactive to prisons so that children legislation. The Department for Transport is currently consult- substances, soaked into visiting family members No pampering ing with local authorities who issue licences to drivers. clothing and paper. Positive can take part in the Transport minister Nusrat Ghani said: “While the vast majority “Pampered lags are being results give staff grounds to celebration and Share a lavished with free satellite TV of drivers are safe and act responsibly, we have seen too many carry out further investigation, Story. This year all prisons cases where taxi and minicab drivers have used their job to while our troops have been Rory Stewart: “The first which could result in sanctions in England and Wales will prey on vulnerable people, women and children. These rules told they must pay for their six months have given us or criminal prosecution. As receive books so children would make sure that drivers are fit to carry passengers, own sets; and stump up a solid platform from reported last month, the and young people visiting keeping people safe while stopping those with bad intentions £131.50 for a licence’. I read which we can set a more roll-out of x-ray body scanners on 7 March can take part. this in a Sunday tabloid and positive direction for all from getting behind the wheel of a taxi or minicab.” The checks at the 10 prisons is also are part of a range of new ideas including CCTV in every car. felt it warranted the record our prisons.” underway. David Kendall, who being set straight! The Home worked with World Book London pilots knife offender tagging Office revealed taxpayers In his latest move he has assembled 60 experienced staff into Day to coordinate the Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, has announced a pilot forked out £100,000 in three teams who will work in rotation around the ten prisons to project, said: “Sharing a scheme whereby people convicted of knife crimes in London years to provide TV sets in jail support and mentor the staff, many of whom have less than story with your children will be the subject of ‘tagging’ on release. The trial will target cells, plus £18,406 a year for two years’ service. The Ministry of Justice say: “Working on brings you closer.. It’s an 100 people in four boroughs - Lewisham, Lambeth, Croydon satellite fees. Tory defence rotation around the 10 prisons and comprising some of the amazing gift from World and Southwark, which have been worst hit by knife crime. spokesman Liam Fox stormed: brightest and best officers from across the estate, the team Book Day and the publish- “It’s a national disgrace to will provide advice and encouragement to inexperienced ers, to send out 20,000 There were 128 murders in London in 2018, the highest number treat villains better than officers to build their confidence, particularly in their books. And we also want in a calendar year this decade. Mr Khan said: “This innovative heroes.” Prisoners pay £1.00 relationships with prisoners. The team is also supporting all to thank prison libraries, pilot will build on the good work of the City Hall-funded per week for the ‘privilege’ of staff to get the basics right and meet consistently high and all the charities and violent crime taskforce by helping offenders integrate back into in-cell TV, so let’s do some standards in routine tasks such as cell checks.” visits staff who take part society and reducing the risk of reoffending, as well as giving calculations. There are 420 and support this.” the police the information they need to thoroughly investigate inmates here at Erlestoke who Mr Stewart said: “In six months these prisons have made reported crimes.” pay £420 per week; that adds significant progress, from tougher security to improved up to £21,840 per year. There standards of decency … I have no doubt the Standards are now an estimated 80,000 Coaching Teams will make a significant contribution. Their inmates in prisons in England knowledge and experience will be invaluable in driving & Wales and if all had in-cell further improvement. TV’s that would calculate to over £1 million per year in “I promised that I would resign if violence did not start to fall Child Abuse rental.” Mailbag within a year. There is still much to do, and I do not underes- timate the scale of the challenge, but the first six months have Helping victims achieve justice Unclean undies given us a solid platform from which we can set a more positive direction for all our prisons.” “Prisoners in Barlinnie have complained of being forced to The ten prisons making up the project are: HMPs Hull, The law allows people to make claims for compensation wear dirty and ill-fitting Humber, Leeds, Lindholme, Moorland, Wealstun, even if the abuse they suffered took place many years ago. underwear. Scottish Chief Nottingham, Ranby, Isis and Wormwood Scrubs. Inspector of Prisons, Dr Andrew McLellan, said the issue was a Our specialist abuse solicitors deal with cases concern. “You have to take New youth violence what you are given,” he added. against children’s homes, other institutions and “The underwear might fit or it programme announced social services for lack of care. might not, it might be unstained Home Secretary Sajid Javid or not. I think it’s a very has set out new measures to We have a proven track record in handling child abuse important thing if you don’t target youth violence. The new get a chance to wear you own Youth Advocates Programme claims and can help you if you have been the victim of underwear.” Newsround will see respected members sexual, physical or psychological abuse in childhood. of communities, such as Speak to one of our specialist male or female solcitors sports coaches and youth workers, receive specialist in complete confidence. training in order to have safe conversations with young people and provide them Sajid Javid: “Intervening Prison Visits Legal Aid Available Complete Confidentiality with positive alternatives to early is key.” carrying a knife. There is also a social media campaign that we communicate with The rhythm of time #knifefree which aims to them directly through the 0800 260 5002 [email protected] Prison Visits Legal Aid Available Complete Confidentiality “Musician and campaigner educate 10-21 year-olds on the people in their communities www.simpsonmillar.co.uk www.abuselaw.co.uk Billy Bragg pictured above with dangers of carrying knives. who they respect and listen inmates and prison workers at Mr Javid said: “Intervening to. That’s why the grassroots © Simpson Millar LLP, 100 Talbot Road, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0PG. Guys Marsh in Dorset where early in the lives of vulnerable advocates programme and Simpson Millar LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales: No OC313936. Registered office 21-27 St Paul’s Street, Leeds, LS1 2JG. A list of members in available from our registered office. We use the term he delivered six guitars as part youngsters is key in combat- our #knifefree campaign are ‘partner’ to refer to an employee of equivalent standing to that of a partner in a partnership. Members of the Law of his new charity campaign, ing the rise of serious integral to the work we are Society’s Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Panels. A list of our offices can be found at www.simpsonmillar.co.uk. Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Registration No. 424940. ‘Jail Guitar Doors’.” Newsround violence. It’s therefore vital doing to stop this bloodshed.” 12 Newsround www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2019 Long term aims for justice Recycling troubled lives orders were “much more effective at tackling the root And the 2019 Lord Corbett Award goes to… causes behind criminality”.
Stressing the vital role awarded £3,000 and the commendation technology has to play in £1,000, all courtesy of sponsorship from the effective community orders, inspirational Chrysalis Programme. Winners he said: “GPS tagging will also receive glass plaques donated by James help to better protect victims Timpson plus a book about the life of Lord and give them the reassurance Corbett. that perpetrators will not be able to breach an exclusion Alasdair Jackson, Chief Executive of zone without triggering an Recycling Lives Charity & Social Enterprise Hi Tech monitoring immediate alert. I am Commenting as she presented the award: “It © Deposit Photos confident that this important is always fantastic to win any award. To Justice Secretary David Gauke is only a choice between new technology will become Inside Time report receive the Robin Corbett Award is particular- has announced that from “soft” and “hard” justice, a vital tool to increase public ly special. It means so much, as we are being this summer, some people arguing that the focus should protection and strengthen recognised by experts in the prison field. To Recycling Lives, a social business which convicted of less serious instead be on a system based options for tougher commu- go from working with one man on ROTL 10 enables prisoners to gain skills and qualifica- crimes will not be sent to on evidence of what actually nity sentences.” years ago to changing hundreds of lives every prison but will wear GPS tags works - “punishments that tions to help them reduce their risk of year is something we are immensely proud which will constantly report are punitive, for a purpose”. “Prison will always play a reoffending on release, has been awarded the of. My team deserve all the credit as they 2019 Robin Corbett Award for prisoner their position. It follows a part in serving as punish- leave no stone unturned to help the people reintegration. Recycling Lives works in 11 UK successful pilot in the North On sentencing, he said that ment for serious crimes and we work with. However, the real winners are prisons and was nominated for the award for East and is expected to be the high rate of reoffending in rehabilitation, and our those men and women who have turned their its work at HMP Wymott in Lancashire. This used instead of remand in for those on sentences of less reforms will deliver that. But lives around. I couldn’t be prouder of them.” custody for some people. It than 6 months showed that we need to think more annual Award, which recognises outstanding rehabilitative work with prisoners by a can be used for curfews and for them and wider society imaginatively about different Lord Corbett’s widow Lady Corbett said: also to enforce exclusion “prison simply isn’t working” and more modern forms of charity or community group working in partnership with prison staff, was set up in “Amongst some outstanding applications, zones, so defendants cannot and there is “a very strong punishment in the Recycling Lives’ work and exceptional results approach witnesses. case to abolish sentences of community. the memory of Lord Corbett (above), the respected chairman of the Home Affairs meant that the judges were unanimous in 6 months or less altogether, their decision. A Fairer Chance was also “As with our approach to Committee. For ten years, up until his death The system is part of a with some closely defined worthy winners of the runner-up prize, and short sentences, ultimately, in February 2012, Robin Corbett also chaired government initiative to exceptions, and put in their we were very happy to commend Circles reduce the number of people place, a robust community it’s about doing what works the All-Party Parliamentary Penal Affairs South West for its vital work. All three sent to prison. Announcing order regime”. Offenders to reduce reoffending and Group, to which the Prison Reform Trust charities stand as outstanding examples of the new measures, Mr Gauke were less likely to reoffend if make us all safer and less provides the secretariat. how organisations can assist prisoners to said he challenged the they are given a community likely to be a future victim of help themselves.” “polarising” view that there order, he said, because these crime.” The first prize is £5,000, with the runner-up
Fighting for the Rights of Vulnerable Immigration Detainees in Prison Vulnerable immigration detainees in prison are not given the same rights as those held in immigration removal centres. Duncan Lewis Solicitors are leading a challenge to address the Home Office’s failure to provide safeguards for potentially vulnerable immigration detainees held in the prison estate, which could find them unsuitable for detention. Solicitors Our Challenge Vulnerable detainees held in immigration removal centres can be identified Our specialist team of prison immigration solicitors are as unsuitable for detention under a Rule 35 assessment. This includes: currently bringing a judicial review on behalf of a claimant who was held under immigration powers in prison. Whilst in prison he disclosed that he was a victim of torture, but since there is no • Victims of torture obligation on medical staff to report torture or health concerns • Modern slavery victims to the Home Office, he remained in detention. • Victims of trafficking • Those with mental health problems We have submitted to the High Court that this is unlawful discrimination, as it breaches Article 14 of the European If you believe you fall under any of these categories, we want to hear from Convention on Human Rights and the Equality Act. you, as you may be eligible to join our challenge.
Contact our team to find out about our challenge and how we can represent you: 020 3114 1333* @ [email protected] Immigration Prisoners Team, Spencer House, 29 Grove Hill Road, Harrow-on-the-Hill, HA1 3BN *No matter where you are calling from England and Wales, we can assist you.
Interpreters Offices Available 8 all across England & Wales Insidetime March 2019 www.insidetime.org Newsround 13
Prisons are creating ‘voice World prison review print’ databases Prisons across the United States are building biometric databases that include voice recordings of prisoners. Prisons are using voice recognition technology that can extract and digitize voices to create unique and identifiable biometric signatures known as voice prints to track phone calls and find past communica- tions that match the voice ‘El Chapo’ convicted print of a particular person. Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán Loera (above), the infamous They could also identify the Mexican drug lord, was convicted by a U.S. jury of 10 criminal voices of outside callers, counts in connection with his narcotics empire. Mr. Guzmán, 61 meaning people who have I’m a criminal, let me in! years old, is now expected to spend the rest of his life in a U.S. not been accused of or prison without possibility of parole. “It is a sentence from which committed a crime may still there is no escape and no return,” said Brooklyn U.S. Attorney have their voice print Japanese pensioner crime wave Richard Donoghue, calling the verdict a victory for “every family recorded by the systems and World prison feature harm. I just showed the knife to them hoping who’s lost a loved one to the black hole of addiction.” El Chapo added to the database. one of them would call the police. One did.” (or Shorty) ran the Sinaloa cartel in northern Mexico. Over He has now spent the last eight years in Japan, normally known for its polite and time, it became one of the biggest traffickers of drugs to the US. prison. Unlike in the UK, the Japanese state law-abiding citizens, is in the grip of a crime In 2009, Guzmán entered Forbes’ list of the world’s richest men pension is still paid to prisoners so, whilst wave by people over 65. It transpires that at number 701, with an estimated worth of $1bn (£775m). He incarcerated, they are able to save up money many elderly Japanese are desperately poor for release. Mr Takata says: “It’s not that I like it, was accused of having helped export hundreds of tonnes of and they see prison as a place where they can but I can stay there for free. And when I get cocaine into the US and of conspiring to manufacture and live free of charge and be looked after. In out I have saved some money. So, it is not that distribute heroin, methamphetamine and marijuana. He was Japan, even a petty crime can land the offender painful.” also said to have used hitmen to carry out ‘hundreds’ of Say that again… with a prison sentence of a year or more. murders, assaults, kidnappings and acts of torture on rivals. Currently one in five crimes in Japan are It is not only the men who have cottoned on committed by people over the age of 65. In to the free board and lodging. A 70-year-old US man may be cleared after 43 years in jail 2016 there were 46,977 senior citizen arrests women told the BBC: “I couldn’t get along with In 1976 a US jury convicted Charles Ray Finch of shooting a gas station owner in a robbery gone - over 20% of all arrests. The crime rate for the my husband. I had nowhere to live and no wrong, connecting him to an eyewitness description of a shotgun-wielding assailant wearing a elderly has quadrupled in the last twenty years. long coat and hat. Now, 43 years later, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has granted place to stay. So, it became my only choice: to steal,” she says. “Even women in their 80s who him a new hearing, citing problems from the 1970s trial as so strong that jurors today would doubt A Japanese research group, Custom Products can’t properly walk are committing crime. It’s his guilt. In its ruling, the three-judge panel noted trouble with the murder weapon, eyewitness Research Group, says that the very low because they can’t find food or money.” testimony, an “unduly suggestive” police line-up and pressure to implicate Finch. Fortunately, he Japanese state pension is too hard to live on. did not receive the death penalty, but would this be the longest wrongful imprisonment? They say the costs of rent, food and healthcare The explosion in the number of elderly people alone will leave recipients in debt if they have seeking shelter in Japanese prisons has meant no other income - and that’s before they’ve the state has had to create more suitable paid for heating or clothes. Previously children prison places. A prison at Fuchu has nearly a would have supported their parents but, with third of prisoners who are over 60 and the the current economic climate in Japan, many military drills, which are a part of the Japanese cannot now afford to do so. prison regime, have become ever more difficult with the ageing population and Speaking to the BBC one man, 69-year-old prisoners on crutches. Toshio Takata, said: “I reached pension age and then I ran out of money. So, it occurred to me There are people in Japan now arguing against - perhaps I could live for free if I lived in jail. So, the imprisonment of all these elderly people I took a bicycle and rode it to the police station for minor transgressions. They say the theft of and told the guy there: Look, I took this.” a 200 Yen sandwich (£1.40) can cost 8.4 million Yen (£58,000) in prison costs. Although this was his first offence, at the age of 62, Mr Takata got his wish and was jailed for Japanese State Pension is 779,300 yen (£5,420) a year. When he was released he was back at 30% less than UK pension. Prices for food and square one so took a knife to threaten some groceries in Japan are about 20% higher than women. He says: “I went to a park and just UK and rent up to 35% higher. threatened them. I wasn’t intending to do any Credit: BBC
Forensic Accountants with over CANTERS CRIME We are a friendly rm, with solicitors and legally 20 Years Experience quali ed sta who are experts in their particular • Proceeds of Crime & Confiscation areas of law • Money Laundering • Tax Investigations • Fees with Legal Aid Funding AREAS OF WORK • Ex-Serious Fraud Office Forensic Accountant LICENSE RECALL PAROLE REVIEWS “The case settled very favourably thanks in large measure to your report. It is not often that one IPP REVIEWS ADJUDICATIONS finds an expert who is so thorough” Other Prison Law issues considered Client Benefit Amount Riley Moss Benefit but payment may be on a private fee basis Mr M £783,000 £6,000 Mr D £1,176,000 £18,000 All areas of Criminal work including Police Mr A £2,040,000 £77,000 Interviews/ Court Appearances Contact Waseem Yasin or John Rafferty for FREE no obligation advice CONTACT US 0161 832 1438 0151 239 1020 [email protected] www.rileymoss.co.uk [email protected] 184 Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester, M8 8LQ ›› Registered with EMAP ‹‹ 24 DALE STREET , LIVERPOOL L2 5RL Two years ago, as part of an animal therapy initiative for students at YOI Hydebank 14 Newsround // Local Prison News www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2019 Wood College in Belfast goats were introduced. Since then the programmes thrived Good Prison News years ago as part of an Durham governor and the goat family expand- animal therapy initiative for Newsbites ed. Michele McElnea, students. Michele McElnea, has adjudications Business Development Business Development reviewed Wandsworth ‘loses’ a prisoner Officer at the college, said: Officer at Hydebank Wood Wandsworth was put on lockdown last month after one of its “The therapeutic value of College, said: “The therapeu- The governor of HMP Durham prisoners escaped from inside the prison after a court appear- looking after and caring for tic value of looking after and was sent for retraining after ance. The Ministry of Justice isn’t sure exactly when he escaped animals is widely recognised caring for animals is widely inviting Channel 4 to film in but think it was about 9pm. Escapes from inside prisons are and initiatives like this are recognised and initiatives the prison. The resulting film extremely rare and the last successful escape from Wandsworth helping us to support the like this are helping us to was broadcast showing her was in 2004 when a prisoner pretended to be a court officer and young men in our care, support the young men in making statements and sent an email to the prison telling them to release him. Great challenging them to change, our care, challenging them finding verdicts in adjudica- Train Robber Ronnie Biggs fled Wandsworth in 1965 to lead a and helping to build a safer to change, and helping to tions that broke the rules. free life in Brazil. community in Northern build a safer community in One prisoner, who appeared Ireland.” Page 15 Northern Ireland.” before her with serious facial Friends of the friendless injuries which he said were An elderly man who served a short sentence at Wormwood caused by officers, was told Scrubs is suing the Prison Service because he says he developed New goat life that staff were allowed to Credit: YOI Hydebank Wood College PTSD, depression and skin rashes as a result of having rats strike prisoners if they felt running over his body during the night. He says he suffers threatened - a breach of the terrifying nightmares because of his experience at the prison. No kidding! Use of Force rules. CCTV The man claims that on his first day a friendly rat sat on his feet showed nine staff escorting as he read the newspaper - he says they were so tame they had Irish goat family expansion the bleeding prisoner from his no fear of people. cell wearing only underwear When two residents at YOI Mr Graham said: “These two and when staff said he had Wandering into prison Hydebank Wood College in young men had never worked attacked them she found the A migrant who stowed away on a lorry to sneak into Britain Belfast started working with with farm animals before, prisoner guilty ‘on the came unstuck when he jumped out of the lorry and wandered goats and learning about but I’ve been teaching them balance of probability’ and into the grounds of HMP Thorn Cross. He was detained by staff animal husbandry they never basic animal husbandry. So, We three kids Credit: YOI Hydebank Wood College said she had no reason to at the prison who saw him wandering around the sports field. dreamed they would have to when it came to birthing the doubt the word of her officers. fulfil the post of midwife to kid goats, they knew exactly Hydebank Wood College is a one of their charges. Ricky what they were doing. They’re young offender’s institution Prison rules state that charges New unit seizes prisoner money A prisoner at Gartree has had his bank account frozen and Graham (above), Vocational now bottle-feeding the kids and prison in Belfast, which against prisoners must be £8,000 seized by a new unit formed to investigate organised Training Officer at Hydebank and caring for their mothers. consists of two parts. The dismissed if they are not college part houses young crime within prisons. It was the first success for the Financial and part-time farmer, has It’s just been incredible to proven ‘beyond reasonable watch these two young men men between the ages of 18 doubt’. The Prisoners’ Advice Investigations Unit, which was created last year as part of the been working with the working with animals and I - 21 and has a focus on Service (PAS) wrote to the chief wider effort to disrupt organised crime in prisons which can students, teaching basic know it has really boosted providing education and executive of the Prison and fuel drug use and violence; and is part of a £60million effort to husbandry skills and their self-confidence.” employment opportunities. Probation Service (HMPPS) bring stability to prisons. The unit is made up of specially-trained watched over as they helped The other section, Ash House, Michael Spurr to highlight prison service analysts and police financial investigators who deliver not one, not two, not Goats were introduced to holds female prisoners, both the unlawful nature of the use intelligence to identify bank accounts used for illicit three - but seven kid goats. Hydebank Wood College two sentenced and remand. governor’s findings. Mr transactions. They have the power to freeze bank accounts and Spurr replied that the ruling make arrests. was unlawful and said the governor would be given Sudbury security secured training and every adjudica- Security is being beefed up at HMP Sudbury after a judge tion she has presided over labelled it a “holiday camp.” A prisoner climbed out of a window would be reviewed. and climbed over an unguarded fence before disappearing for six months. For absconding from the open prison, the man got National Prison Law Solicitors Lubia Begum-Rob, of PAS, eight months added to his sentence, but the judge also ordered said that there are thousands the Sudbury governor to provide a written explanation as to how www.instalaw.co.uk of adjudications each week a man could walk out of the prison without anyone noticing. and after legal aid was cut for Instalaw Solicitors have over 40 years combined experience representation at adjudica- No return for G4S to Birmingham yet tions there is no way of representing prisoners rights and we can represent you no matter where you It has been announced that the Prison Service will continue to knowing how widespread are in the country! manage HMP Birmingham for a further six months. They took problems are. Adjudications over the running of the prison from G4S last August after an are not tape-recorded. Specialists in Parole Board paper reviews, oral hearings & independent adjudications inspection found increasing violence and drug use and If Durham prisoners who are ‘appalling’ living conditions for prisoners. Announcing the Our Prison Law Experts can help you with: reading this have had similar decision last month, prisons minister Rory Stewart said that although the situation remained “fragile” he was confident that • Parole Board oral hearings • Mandatory Lifer Reviews adjudications then we suggest that they submit an out of actions taken already had “begun to arrest the decline and • Paper Parole Reviews • IPP Paper & Oral Parole Reviews time appeal on a DIS8 form. brought signs of improvement.” • Recalls • Independent Adjudications • Discretionary Lifer Reviews • Private cases (Transfer/HDC) GRAHAM & CO CRIMINAL SOLICITORS PRISON LAW Call us today for free advice on: 01782 560 155 Adjudications Home Detention Curfew Instalaw, 4th Floor Parliament House, Oral Hearings 42 - 46 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham, NG1 2AG CRIMINAL DEFENCE Recall Confiscation Crown Court Representation Instalaw, 2nd Floor Copthall House, King Street, Fraud Assault/ Drug Cases APPEALS INCLUDING SOPO VARIATIONS AND DISCHARGES CCRC Applications POCA Appeals and enforcement. 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Plumb art Newsbites
With all the talk about saving the world’s Whitemoor trouble resources and recycling waste material it is Six staff from HMP Whitemoor were taken to hospital late last no surprise that domestic furniture and month after a major incident involving around 40 prisoners. lighting made from such materials is turning Some staff were attacked with snooker cues. The Prison Service up in people’s homes and becoming increas- say the incident was resolved after two hours. A spokesperson ingly ‘in-vogue’. Who would think that such said: “We do not tolerate violence in our prisons and, where ‘arty’ materials could be produced in a prison incidents like this occur, will always push for the strongest workshop, but that is exactly what is Prison footie scheme
© Deposit Photos possible punishment for those involved.” happening at HMP Standford Hill.
The prison has a busy and successful The Twinning Project update New Bishop makes prisons a priority A new Bishop for Hexham and Newcastle has been appointed plumbing shop where residents are taught all Rachel Billington - HMP Stocken, Liverpool - HMP Liv- by the Pope. Bishop Robert Byrne has pledged to make poverty aspects of domestic plumbing from taps and erpool / HMP Altcourse, Manchester and prisons his priority. Throughout his time in the church showers to installing boilers. Part of the City - To be confirmed, Newcastle The Twinning Project is in the news Bishop Byrne has worked with people in UK prisons and he training is in bending copper pipework and United - HMP Northumberland, again with a follow-up to their end of said, as Bishop, he would be visiting local prisons. “My main soldering up a variety of pipe installations. Southampton - HMP Winchester, Tot- year launch of the initiative which I ministry was in the prison service, where I did twenty odd years Inevitably there will be lots of off-cuts and tenham Hotspur - HMP Pentonville, wrote about. David Dein, the busi- waste bits. Now, when the prisoners have West Ham United - HMP Chelmsford and I will be visiting the prisons around here. I will be making it spare time in their training, they are getting nessman with the vision and the en- central to my work. I’ve already spoken to Bishop Seamus ergy to ‘twin’ English football league to grips with cutters, benders and solder to English Football League about it. It’s something I’m concerned about.” clubs to prisons has reported on pro- create amazing artworks and lighting from Aston Villa - HMP Birmingham, Brent- gress. His aim had been to kick off what would have ended up in the bin. ford - HMP Wandsworth / HMP YOI Riot at Bedford with twenty prisons, in fact he has Feltham / HMP Bronzefield, Bristol Crisis hit HMP Bedford had to call in a ‘Tornado Squad’ last month signed up thirty-two, some of them Rovers - HMP Bristol, Bury - HMP to quell a riot. The prison was described by Chief Inspector of very big names. He also announces Forest Bank, Charlton Athletic - HMP Prisons Peter Clarke as “filthy and decrepit”. Prisoners’ cells were that the Twinning Project is con- Belmarsh, Doncaster Rovers - HMP found to be overcome with rats and a notice on a door said it firmed as an official umbrella for all Doncaster, Exeter City* - HMP Chan- should be kept closed to stop rats. The report, published last collaboration between football and nings Wood / HMP Exeter, Leeds United prisons, and that a charitable foun- month, said there were too many inexperienced staff and the - HMP Leeds, Lincoln City - HMP Lin- dation will be set up to help clubs prison lacked “order and control.” Last October the Independent coln, Millwall - HMP Isis / HMP YOI with financial constraints. Here is Monitoring Board (IMB) claimed that prisoners had effectively Feltham, Notts County - HMP Not- the list of proposed twins: taken over control of the prison. tingham, Oldham Athletic - HMP Plumbing amazing! Buckley Hall, Plymouth Argyle* - HMP Credit: HMP Standford Hill Premier League Tabloid horror over new prison facilities Channings Wood / HMP Exeter, QPR - Arsenal - HMP Pentonville / HMP Tabloid newspapers are complaining about the facilities Adjacent to the prison is a large retail area HMP Wormwood Scrubs, Rochdale - Downview, AFC Bournemouth - HMP planned for the new £91million super-prison next to HMP Full called ‘The Emporium’ and members of the HMP Buckley Hall, Rotherham United Guys Marsh, Brighton & Hove Albion Sutton. They say the proposed 1,400 category C prisoners will public are welcome to buy some of the - HMP Moorland, Stoke City - HMP - HMP Lewes, Cardiff City* - HMP have “six football pitches plus landscaped gardens and fitness artworks from the plumbing shop. The Stoke Heath, Tranmere Rovers - HMP Parc / HMP Cardiff , Chelsea - HMP centres - and no bars on the windows!” They continue, that woodwork workshop has a similar scheme Styal / HMP Berwyn / HMP Risley / YOI Feltham, Everton - HMP Liverpool prisoners will have a room “packed with video games to keep recycling waste wood into art products and HMP Kirkham / HMP Thorn Cross these are sold alongside the metalwork in / HMP Altcourse, Fulham - HMP Brix- lags happy.” They quote ‘a source’ as saying: “The hope is that a The Emporium. ton / HMP Feltham, Leicester City * Project funded by EFL Trust. softer regime will help in the rehabilitation of prisoners.”
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two pilot programmes but hope to find finance for more. How successful are they? Can group sessions, even if com- bined with one-to-one ses- sions, really change the trajectory of a person’s life? The couple of hours I spent as part of the group was impres- sive, but what happens when the men go back on the wing? Like many, perhaps most pris- ons, Peterborough is reputed to have a problem with vio- Space is king
lence. Can Khulisa help ag- © KKatie Wilson gressive men so that they choose another way? Bedrooms of London
It’s different London is filled with historic elsewhere, sometimes the buildings. One of my favour- mother has left a violent part- now on the wings ites is the Foundlings Mu- ner or been trafficked as a sex because those men seum in East London, all that worker, often, less dramati- Therapeutic process
© Khulisa - Library image remains of the Foundlings cally, they have lost touch I’ve met in the Hospital set up over 275 years with anyone to help them and group know things ago as a place where mothers an overstretched Social Ser- could leave babies who they vices has offered the best they about me and I could not care for. Famous have. Even when a couple are Space to grow know things about artists of the day, such as both in work it can be hard to composer Handel and painter afford decent accommoda- them. We’ve become Gainsborough led the rich tion. Many are waiting hope- real to each other and fashionable in this phil- fully to be moved. Rooms for trust, optimism and hope anthropic effort to see the Month by Month where before we poor babies of London had a One boy de- were strangers. chance of survival and, as they grew up, a real educa- scribes how he uses Kate - prison officer tion, including music and the lavatory seat singing. Over the past ten years, Khu- as a desk for his Rachel Billington It is an appropriate place for lisa has delivered 198 pro- The Childhood Trust to show homework. grammes, trained 2,015 their exhibition about Lon- ‘So what animal do you feel professionals and directly don children suffering from a London is a hugely rich capi- like today?’ It’s not a question helped over 3,265 people. Their modern form of deprivation: tal city, but its provision of I’ve been asked often when flagship programme is called lack of space. The exhibition, public housing falls well short visiting a prison. I was in the Silence the Violence (STV), called ‘Bedrooms of London’, of what is needed. ‘Bedrooms male section of HMP Peter- lasts for up to eight weeks and shows photographs (by Katie of London’ is a fresh way of borough (run by Sodexo Jus- is delivered by art and drama Wilson) of small areas into looking at the needs of chil- tice Services) invited by the therapists. A study commis- charity Khulisa to join in with sioned by the Cabinet Office a therapy session. Their aim in 2016 showed that Khulisa’s is to help men to rehabilitate “Past impacting on futures” interventions reduced re-of- © Khulisa - Library image themselves and reintegrate fending by 77% and 79% had important when you’re asked been discussing in previous with society. The group in- increased their motivation. It to agree or disagree with sessions, many of them im- cluded eight men from the seems my positive impres- statements such as, ‘You portant ideas like ‘respect’ prison, two facilitators, one sion, although gained over a should beat your children’ or ‘discrimination’ ‘purpose’. prison officer, two Khulisa short period of time, is backed ‘The world is unfair’ or ‘Your These men have chosen to organisors and one funder. up by the figures. past impacts your future.’ Led join the course voluntarily, Once the session started we by facilitators Thalia and Da- which sets it apart from the were all part of the same Every sensible person knows mian, we agreed, we disa- usual prison courses, often process. that prisons can only run on greed and listened to each described as ‘tick box exer- co-operation between prison other’s views. Quite often we cises’ which are necessary This was the last day for the and staff. But with staff short- changed our own views after hurdles to anyone wishing to men, apart from a one-to-one ages, there is a tendency to listening. progress in the system. Per- session the following week, rely on heavy-handed pun- haps that partly explains the Time for a tidy up? and they knew each other ishment. One of the things © Katie Wilson Round the walls were rolls of strikingly positive atmos- well. The atmosphere was that remains with me after my paper scrawled with words phere. At the end of our ses- which beds, cots and bunk dren and pinpointing one as- friendly, interested and visit was the comment made suggesting what the men had sion, the men had to be beds are crammed, clothes, pect of deprivation that puts tolerant. Tolerance is by Kate, the prison officer sit- shooed out of the room. None basins and stoves. Not unlike them at risk. These are not ting in (and joining in) with of them knew each other be- a prison cell perhaps, this is abandoned children, all of our session, ‘It’s different now fore the course but now they where babies, children and them have loving mothers or on the wings because those had created a group mental- teenagers are expected to parents, but it is very hard for men I’ve met in the group know ity, with the men, however grow up, do their homework, them to grow and thrive with- things about me and I know different their outlook and eat and sleep. One boy de- out fresh air or space. things about them. We’ve be- backgrounds, prepared to scribes how he uses the lava- come real to each other where help each other and them- tory seat as a desk for his In the words of Gloria, ‘We before we were strangers.’ selves in the process. homework. have to build (them) up, like a house, children are like a To return to that first ques- Khulisa work in seven pris- The bedrooms are empty but house, tree or flower. If you tion, there was a cat, a dog, ons, although a big part of beside them a few paragraphs take care of flowers they grow an eagle and a sparrow their work is done with tell the touching story of their well; children are like flowers. among us and several schoolchildren who are facing inhabitants. Many families You need to encourage them. wounded lions. As Jo com- exclusion or other problems. have been put in these rooms I tell them they are flowers and mented: ‘When we’re here it’s Sensible participants They were in Peterborough for because of problems they have to grow up nicely’.
© Khulisa - Library image not like being in prison.’ Insidetime March 2019 www.insidetime.org Comment 17
Hugh Clough’s ‘Say Not the Struggle Naught In the same way that an artist spills their feel- Availeth’, also famously quoted by Winston ings onto the canvas, writing a poem can pin Deep and permanent Churchill in his wartime speeches. down good times, as well as make sense of adversity and anaesthetize trauma. My head ‘In front the sun climbs slow; how slowly, may be full of chaotic pain, but I find the chaos The healing power of words But westward, look, the land is bright’. lessens when I get my thoughts onto the page. At least I have created something concrete and My mother and I began with short poems. One Meanwhile William Wordsworth’s ‘I Wandered tangible when before there was just a swirling favourite was New Every Morning by Susan Lonely as a Cloud’ is about the power of imag- and shapeless darkness in my mind. It feels Coolidge. It particularly helped at the painful Rachel Kelly ination that can function even in the incarcer- like building a well when previously all I could start of the day: ation of a hospital bed - or indeed prison cell. see was desert. Nelson Mandela famously clung to W.E Hen-
Just over twenty years ago, I was lying in bed Every day is a fresh beginning, ley’s ‘Invictus’ and its last verse: I don’t write poems very often, only when I feel in so much physical pain that I begged to be Listen my soul to the glad refrain. strongly about something, and not usually for allowed to kill myself. That I didn’t was in And, spite of old sorrows ‘It matters not how strait the gate, large part thanks to my love of poetry, and my And older sinning, How charged with punishments the scroll, publication. But here’s a poem I wrote after a mother. Troubles forecasted and possible pain, I am the master of my fate, visit to mum in hospital where she was having Take heart with the day and begin again. I am the captain of my soul.’ chemotherapy, our roles now reversed, me at She would sit by my bedside in the psychiatric her bedside. hospital where I had been admitted for severe Another treasure was the lyrics to Oscar Ham- Of course the healing power of words has a depression and recite poetry aloud. Some merstein’s song ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, long history, dating back to primitive societies Growing up mothers and daughters are bound by a shared which my mother would repeat as she held my who made use of cures involving the spoken love of baking; my mother and I had always hand. Later, as my concentration improved, I and then the written word. The ancient Egyp- And will I ever feel grown-up? been united by poetry. I was a child again, turned to the 17th-century poet George Her- tians wrote remedies on papyrus, which was And what does that mean? lying in bed as she read to me. It turned out bert. When I read the first verse of Love (III), I then soaked in water and the liquid drunk by Up to where? that all these years she had been keeping a felt a bolt of electricity pierce through me. All the patient. In Greek and Roman myth, Apollo Grown to what? book of snippets of poetry, prayer and anec- the hairs on my arm stood on end. was the god of both poetry and medicine. By the I feel as I have always felt dotes that had particularly struck her, entitled first century AD, the Greek theologian Longi- Unsure, uncertain, still a child ‘Consolations’. Love bade me welcome. Yet my soul drew back, nus wrote about how he believed in the powers Yet now a mother, Guilty of dust and sin of language to transform reality in deep and I drank up the collection as if it were ice-cool To my own mother, permanent ways. In 1751, Benjamin Franklin water offered to a parched traveller. I wasn’t Who stumbles now The idea that my soul was ‘guilty of dust and founded the first American hospital, the Penn- well enough to listen to, let alone read, any- And grips my hand sin’ seemed the most perfect description of sylvania Hospital, where reading and writing thing longer than a few verses. Even that could As once I gripped hers. depressive illness. Yet there was Love, welcom- were among the treatments prescribed for exhaust me. I didn’t have the attention span ‘I have had a good run,’ ing me. I would also repeat phrases from The mental illness. In modern times, recognition to read an entire novel. So poetry’s brevity was My mother says Flower, another Herbert poem. One of my best- of the power of words to heal began with the a blessing. But my run with you loved was Grief melts away/like snow in May; psychologists Freud, Adler, Jung and others. Has only just begun, I want to shout! I wrote it on a post-it note and stuck it on the So too was the way it dissolved the feeling of You can’t leave me now! bathroom mirror. Spool forward and by 1969 the Association of solitude: I wasn’t alone, others had suffered The drugs must work! and made something of their suffering. They Poetry Therapy was established in the USA, But I say nothing. had reordered the seemingly random cruelty In those moments of the day when I held hands while in the last few years the organisation How can I complain of the illness into some kind of sense. Poetry with Herbert, the depression couldn’t find me. ‘ReLit’ has attracted tens of thousands of peo- absorbed and revitalised me. Its condensed It felt as though the poet was embracing me ple to its online bibliotherapy courses. When hers is a life of pain? nature and sophisticated vocabulary required from across the centuries, wrapping me in a Of scraped retinas and Catheters, and chemo? a concentration that shocked me into the mo- cocoon of stillness and calm. Here was a new As the years have passed, I have found it not just ‘I have had a good run,’ she says, ment in an almost physical way, freeing me welcome voice in my head, preaching the vir- healing to read poetry, I now like writing it too. But who will hold my hand? from worries past and future. It was as if the tues of acceptance and hope rather than strug- Studies have linked good psychological health I want to shout words had become embodied, almost physical gle and despair. with creativity. Research suggests that GPs Even as I lend my arm in their power, something to hold on to and who prescribed arts activities to some of their To take her back to bed. rub, like prayer beads for the mind. Other favourites include the last lines of Arthur patients saw a drop in hospital admission. For I am the grown-up now.
have had a good run’ which I used in • Take note of whatever is happening • If you find it easier, you could use the poem about her being unwell. for you in this moment. Is your head the structure of an acrostic poem full of thoughts? Or are bodily sen- to help give your poem form. You Sometimes the emotion occurs as a sations grabbing your attention? Is write down a word vertically; then strong image. Recently, for example, something you are seeing or smell- use each letter as a prompt for that a boy in a yellow T-shirt flying a kite ing taking centre stage? Do you feel line of your poem. summed up happiness. So did the the emotion somewhere in your sight of a man in a purple tracksuit body? How does it feel? Does it have • If a poem doesn’t come naturally, practising shooting a ball into a a colour or shape? Does it smell, or do not worry. You could try jotting makeshift goal, despite the rough- make a sound? down a simple line which ex- ness of the grass and the lack of any presses how you are feeling posts in the park. • Is there an image that occurs to you instead. that sums up how you are feeling? • If you are still suffering from If you want some help on structure, ‘writer’s block’, set a timer for you might create two characters in • Is there a line of dialogue which three minutes and write continu- the poem. This is particularly helpful sums up how you are feeling? ously - about anything and if I am trying to make sense of some- 15 minutes of creativity everything to help generate ideas. © Deposit Photos thing troubling. One character can • You could use this first line as a personify whatever is bothering you; prompt ... either ... ‘The sky dark- the other a character you identify ened’ or ‘The sky lightened...’ Rachel Kelly is a former judge of the Art of the poem with. Write a poetic dialogue between Koestler Poetry Awards. Her memoir the two, whereby the character you • Could you create two people in about how poetry helped her recover If the thought of writing a poem as much about how you feel as the embody ends up feeling empowered. your poem to discuss whatever di- from depression ‘Black Rainbow: How daunts you, make the process less words you choose and the images • Set a timer for a maximum of 15 lemma it is you are writing about? words healed me - my journey agonising by giving yourself a time they suggest. With me, sometimes minutes. through depression’ is published by limit. Don’t worry about rhyming that feeling is physical, held some- • Write first, worry second. It’s better Hodder & Stoughton. She runs ‘Heal- or scansion or rhythm or if the where in my body. Sometimes the • Don’t worry about rhyming or the to get something down than agonise ing Words’ workshops in schools, uni- poem is any good. Instead, write feeling is suggested by a simple rhythm of each line; just write from over whether what you are doing is versities and prisons. straight from the heart: poetry is phrase, like my mother saying ‘I the heart. any good. www.rachel-kelly.net 18 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2019
The Parole Board has released more IPP prisoners Erwin James over the last three years than
Prior to the recent announcement of changes it ever has before. The number to the parole system of England and Wales by of IPPs is now down by sixty Justice Secretary David Gauke, I met up with Parole Board chief Martin Jones at the Board’s per cent over the last five new offices in London’s Canary Wharf. I’d in- years. I think that’s real terviewed both previous Chairs of the Parole Board for the Guardian newspaper and for progress. Inside Time. Sir David Calvert-Smith, a former Director of Public Prosecutions and High Court Judge was Chair from 2012 to 2016. He was serving a mandatory life sentence is better followed by Professor Nick Hardwick, a former placed to make progress than someone serving Chief Inspector of Prisons who was Chair until a discretionary life sentence, which effectively he was sacked by David Gauke in March 2018 an IPP order is. Those serving an IPP now following a controversial decision by the Board surely are in the most need of hope. Is there to release a high profile prisoner. The current anything hopeful for them in the pipeline? “My Chair is Caroline Corby, a former non-execu- assessment is that the legacy of IPPs is a legacy tive director of the Criminal Cases Review Martin Jones: Champion of progressive regimes Commission (CCRC) and children’s fiction of failure. The sentence itself failed. The fact writer. that it was only in place for six years I think is a pretty damning indictment of the problems The first thing I ask Martin Jones when we that beset the IPP sentence right from the off. Hope for progress I do think it’s left a dreadful legacy. I do feel meet was ‘what is the difference between the role of the Chair of the Board and his role as We want to be fair and make confident decisions based extremely sorry for people who got scooped up Chief Executive Officer (CEO)?’ “The way I in that sentence. The amount of time many of would describe the difference in the roles is on evidence and common sense, says CEO of the Parole them have been in prison completely out- I’m full-time. I’m here five days a week, some- Board for England and Wales Martin Jones weighs the seriousness of the offence they times seven days a week, running the organi- committed. But I think there is hope. The hope sation day to day. I’m responsible for ensuring I would give people is this – the Parole Board we’re running the show properly, getting hear- to make independent, impartial decisions I We have a statuary re- has released more IPP prisoners over the last ings on in good time, ensuring we manage our think there’s just a perception problem. So three years than it ever has before. The number performance and spending our money well, we’ve launched a new recruitment campaign lease test that we have to of IPPs is now down by sixty per cent over the money that we get from the public. And then and we’re absolutely determined to get better apply in every case, and that last five years. I think that’s real progress. the Chair is responsible most of all for the over- results. The way we are doing that is two-fold: Clearly we can’t reach back and repair the all strategy of the organisation. They tend to we’ve completely re-engineered the process to release test is whether the damage of the past. But we have encouraged be here one or two days a week. They will quite make sure we get the best possible candidates; parole applicant’s continued our members to take an honest view using the often be the media face of the organisation.” and we’ve been running a whole series of out- test, as I said before, of looking at real risk. For reach activities in an effort to attract more detention is necessary for the somebody that’s been in prison for ten years As a journalist, I’ve been aware that in the applicants from those under-represented com- protection of the public. We longer than expected, unsurprisingly their three years he’s been CEO he has generally munities. The next recruitment campaign is behaviour in prison can be chaotic. Prison managed to stay under the public radar. “Ab- going to be more regional than national. We’re are dealing with people, and itself is not good for your mental health.” solutely,” he says. “Ideally, you would just see recruiting particularly in the north east and the organisation functioning well and I should north west of England where we need quite the Parole Board only deals Stuck in the middle not be visible. Obviously when I go to give urgently to get new members in. We believe with people who have com- “Parole Board members have received exten- evidence at Parliamentary Select Committees that way we can make some real difference in sive material on the reality of the IPP sentence. I am visible and get brought along because I our diversity make-up.” mitted serious offences.” Ultimately, our decision has to be about risk. understand best the workings of the Some IPP prisoners should not have got the Paid or not paid? organisation.” sentence in the first place, that’s pretty clear I always wondered if Parole Board members offence: what’s the person’s background, to everybody. I think there is a hard core of were paid, and how many of them there are. what’s their history, why are they in prison? people who have committed really grave of- “Currently we have around 240 members mak- Then we look at who is the person today? And We believe that way we fences who probably would have got a discre- ing the decisions,” he says. “They are public I’m a firm believer that people are capable of tionary life sentence had the IPP not been can make some real difference appointed; appointed ultimately by ministers change. We have to look at the risk they present available. But my real concern are those who and they are paid a daily rate. Some are judges, today, not the risk they presented ten, twenty in our diversity make-up. are stuck in the middle, stuck by virtue of the but the majority are simply independent mem- or thirty years ago. And finally we have to look sentence, caught in this really difficult circle. bers. You don’t need to come from the criminal at the future. A key point for me is that out Diversity justice system to be a Parole Board member.” there I don’t think that anyone is risk free – I What the Parole Board has been doing has The Parole Board attracts criticism for many What about ‘Lay members’? “We’re quite egal- don’t think I’m risk free. I think there could be been encouraging members to take a much reasons I say, but one really important thing itarian,” he says, “All members get paid ex- circumstances in which anybody could be in- more problem-solving approach. In other is the obvious lack of diversity among panel actly the same as judges. The reality is there is volved in a serious incident. For us deciding words, what are the obstacles in the way of that members. The Board is too white, too mid- an element of law about our decisions, but to release someone from prison is how do we prisoner being progressed, and that has dle-class and hardly representative of the peo- actually it’s about common sense - looking at manage that risk out here? The Parole Board reaped some dividends for us. ple it has to make often life-changing decisions the evidence and making a fair decision. We releases thousands of people every year, and about. Inside Time regularly gets letters pre- provide detailed training on how to do it. But we know, if you look at the figures, the rate at The way out cisely to that effect, I tell him. “I have to say in reality it’s listening to people.” So how ex- which our decisions prove to be wrong, where “One prison I rate really highly is Warren Hill. that I don’t think our diversity make-up is good actly does a panel judge whether someone is people commit a serious offence after we’ve They have a Progression Regime there where enough,” he says. “At the moment less than safe to be let out into the community? “We made a decision to release them, is a fraction really, really positive work is going on identi- five per cent of Board members are from a have a statuary release test that we have to of one per cent. 99.5 per cent of our decisions fying prisoners who have repeatedly failed at Black or Minority Ethnic background. That’s apply in every case,” he says, “And that release prove to be right. That should give people con- parole hearings, working on preparations for incredibly low when you look at the make-up test is whether the parole applicant’s contin- fidence in our decision-making process. Ide- release – and actually what they have found of the general population, and indeed the ued detention is necessary for the protection ally we’d want a zero failure rate, but we do is a much higher release date than what would prison population - yet we know there is sig- of the public. We are dealing with people, and make these decisions incredibly carefully. We have been expected in an ordinary regime. nificant over-representation from those groups the Parole Board only deals with people who have to do so in a way that’s fair, for the pris- That regime is being extended to other parts in our prisons. That means if you are a Black have committed serious offences.” oner and for victims and the public.” of the country. I’m absolutely certain by doing or Asian prisoner applying for parole there is this we will be giving those people hope. When virtually no prospect of you seeing anyone Risk Hope for IPPs I went to Warren Hill and spoke to prisoners other than a white person to determine your “Generally speaking, it’s the most difficult There are still thousands of people in prison that’s exactly what they told me. One said, liberty. I think that goes right to the heart of twenty-five per cent of the prison population serving Imprisonment for Public Protection ‘Until I arrived here and began this work I had confidence in the system. Whilst I’m abso- who come before us. When we deal with those (IPP) – a sentence which has been abolished. no hope, but now I can see a way out of this lutely sure that all of our members are trained cases we look at three things. We look at the It seems profoundly unfair, I say, that someone sentence.’” Insidetime March 2019 www.insidetime.org Comment 19
It will be wise to get good advice to prepare claims that this will be a quick and efficient such an application and not to expect that it process. Parole decisions will succeed. Applying a judicial review test is not straightforward and the application will Can the Parole Board judge itself? need to be compelling. The Reconsideration Paper says that the ulti- mate decision-maker will be a Parole Board No details have been worked out yet of the judge. The judge or judges who will perform reconsidered funding system to support this. A fair system this function have not yet been defined. As will ensure that prisoners can access legal aid with most lengthy documents, it is important New mechanism may lead to a rocky road ahead for high quality legal advice and assistance to read them carefully. Fairly hidden away is both to make and defend applications. It could a paragraph which reads: the state should not be involved in decisions reasonably be argued that victims should also regarding the release of prisoners serving in- have legal aid to provide access to quality as- ‘Subject to the volume of prisoner applications determinate sentences. They have emphasised sistance. The Secretary of State’s proposals do and member capacity, it may be necessary for Andrew Sperling that these decisions should be made by courts not allow for that, arguing that the presence of the Parole Board to operate an administrative or court-like bodies such as the Parole Board. PPCS is a sufficient service and safeguard for sift process so not all prisoner applications may victims. be seen by a judicial or accredited member.’ The Ministry of Justice has announced that The review mechanism allows PPCS to act on there will be a new review process to challenge a request to stop a prisoner being released. Is the new process lawful? This paragraph undermines the commitment Parole Board decisions termed the Reconsid- PPCS will be able to refer the case back to the The new mechanism gives the Secretary of that it will be judges who have experience in eration Mechanism. This is a worrying devel- Parole Board to ask for it to be reconsidered. State’s department ‘two bites of the cherry’. If applying judicial review tests who will be mak- opment for prisoners serving indeterminate The Reconsideration Mechanism paper ex- they do have concerns about a prisoner being ing decisions. and extended sentences. When it comes into plains that judicial review type criteria will be released, it is already open to them to play a effect - and there is no definite date for this yet used to assess cases. It suggests that PPCS full part in parole proceedings. They already Will Parole Board members have the necessary - there will be two inevitable results. A pris- have the expertise to apply these criteria effec- have an extensive role in presenting evidence distance and objectivity to judge whether their oner who has had a release decision from the tively and Victim Liaison Officers (VLOs) will to the Parole Board. This is what they are sup- colleagues have made an irrational or proce- Parole Board will no longer know for certain be able to advise victims about the possibility posed to do. They can already have an advo- durally unfair decision? that they are to be released. In every case (for of a case being reconsidered. People who have cate at the hearing and argue a case. If they do indeterminate and extended sentenced pris- The Ministry of Justice has also begun a ‘Tai- day to day experience of PPCS and VLOs might not like the Parole Board’s decision, the new oners) there will be a period of 21 days in which lored’ Review of the Parole Board in which they have some doubts about this claim. mechanism makes it much easier to interfere it will be possible for that decision to be chal- will look (again) at whether the status of the with the Parole Board’s decision that the pris- lenged. Prisoners will not be released during Parole Board should change. I have been ad- oner meets the test for release. This looks like this period. This is a deprivation of liberty for vocating for a long time that the Parole Board This looks like interference interference with the Parole Board’s independ- all those prisoners. The Parole Board will al- needs to become a proper court or tribunal. ence and some might argue that this makes the ready have decided that they do not need to be with the Parole Board’s This would require the removal of the Secre- process unlawful. confined for the protection of the public, but independence and some tary of State from many aspects of his current they will stay in prison for at least three addi- role within the parole process. It could give the The Secretary of State will say that he is not tional weeks. Many will stay in longer. might argue that this makes Parole Board powers to enforce directions and making a decision to overturn release. He will the process unlawful. to operate like a real court. It could also pro- The Secretary of State has decided that his maintain that the mechanism only allows his vide a proper appeal route which could cure department, the Public Protection Casework department to refer a case back to a Parole some of the flaws of the new Reconsideration Board judge and that judge will decide whether Section (‘PPCS’), should be the gatekeepers of The good news for prisoners Mechanism. the case should be directed to a new panel to this process. The explanation given for this is The one aspect of the new mechanism which hear again. At the very least, it will give him that it will save victims the cost and risk of is likely to be welcomed by prisoners is that it In the meantime, prisoners who rely on the the chance to delay the release of a prisoner taking legal proceedings and will avoid cases is open to them to use too. They will not need Parole Board for their release should be pre- for several weeks, possibly months. This might which do not have merit going ahead. On the to ask the Secretary of State to request a review pared for a rocky road ahead. face of it, this may seem reasonable. The main of a decision to refuse to release them. They destroy the prisoner’s release plans as well as problem is that it puts the state at the heart of will be able to apply directly to the Parole forcing that person to endure the stress and an important judicial process. There is a long Board, either by themselves or by a legal rep- anxiety of not knowing the outcome of their Andrew Sperling is a former adviser to the case. I do not have much confidence in the line of cases in which courts have decided that resentative applying on their behalf. Parole Board
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