“The sense of community Junior at the Parkrun is fantastic.” Downview prison governor runs the run

DOWN A DARK PATH ALL IN A SPIN! “Porridge is a great oppor- The danger of feigning Breaking down barriers tunity … to get listeners the National Newspaper for Prisoners & Detainees mental illness in order to and pedalling to a better pumped and ready for the make ‘progress’ way of living day ahead!” a voice for prisoners since 1990 Comment // page 27 Jailbreak // page 49 Jailbreak // page 46 March 2020 / Issue No. 249 / www.insidetime.org / A ‘not for profit’ publication / ISSN 1743-7342 Beating the booze 19 // Inside Scotland 30-31 // 2020 Koestler entry form inside An average of 60,000 copies distributed monthly Independently verified by the Audit Bureau of Circulations SCOTTISH PRISONERS GET THE VOTE Forbidden kiss… 32 Credit: Richard Ansett l Overwhelming ma- l Foreign nationals in l Historic moment for jority of MSPs agreed Scots prisons included the UK Coming out brave Inside Time report The new legislation was passed by a vote of 92 TV programme reveals the challenges and triumphs of life to 27 by MSPs. Voting rights were also ex- in a women’s prison. And BBC debate ends with a public jury of tended to foreign nationals. Scottish Conserv- The Scottish Parliament has passed an historic atives opposed the move saying: “There can experts opting for rehabilitation over punishment for prisoners. new law - The Scottish Elections (Franchise be little hiding from the fact that this Bill will and Representation) Bill - that will allow Scot- bring prisoners into our elections, and it will tish prisoners serving sentences of twelve be a consequence of a decision made here in NEWS FLASH! PRISONERS MISSING OUT ON HEALTHCARE! 13 months or less the right to vote in Scottish Holyrood, not one of compliance with a court elections. This is the first time that convicted in Strasbourg. Many simply disagree that pris- prisoners in the UK have been given this right. oners, people who have stepped beyond the The Scottish Constitution Secretary, Mike Rus- rules set by our society, should have the right With our team of Prison Law specialists we can provide sell said that, although it was an emotive to vote for those who set those rules while they are still being punished and still have yet to assistance Nationwide. issue, Scotland had to extend the right to vote be rehabilitated and reintegrated into our by the limited number of prisoners in order to Our commitment and service to you, does not stop when community.” comply with the European Court of Human you leave the dock. Reeds solicitors are dedicated to Rights. Continued on page 14 providing legal expertise along with unparalleled client care.

NEWS FLASH! UNDER-25s ‘NOT FULLY LIABLE FOR CRIMES COMMITTED’ 14 This service also includes issues you may experience in custody.

RTXS-CHLX-SYRC Reeds Solicitors Offices Nationwide Suite 358, First Floor, Silbury Court 358 Silbury Boulevar, Milton Keynes MK9 2AF

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Our experienced Solicitors also offer competitive fixed fees Mums ‘R’ Us 16 for general Prison Law matters including: Mothers’ Union raid toy shop! Re-categorisation Sentence Planning A mothers’ union group, Carlisle Diocese Mothers’ Union, was able Contact our team now by calling 01865 592670 or write to us to choose £500 of toys donated by The Entertainer Shop in Carlisle using our Freepost address city centre to the family and visitors’ area at HMP Haverigg. Suite 358, First Floor, Silbury Court 358 Silbury Boulevar, Milton Keynes MK9 2AF 2 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2020 Punishment insidetime Not just men Mailbites a voice for prisoners since 1990 W Kram - HMP The Verne Name supplied - HMP Whatton Who really is ‘vulnerable’? the national newspaper for prisoners published Is coming to prison and hav- Dillon Finn - HMP Lewes by Inside Time Limited, a wholly owned For many years I was the victim of domestic abuse from my ing your liberty taken away subsidiary of The New Bridge Foundation, partner, who I thought loved me. We had 4 beautiful children the price being paid for How come rapists, paedophiles and terrorists founded in 1956 to create links between the together, but she became controlling. I wasn’t allowed to being found guilty or should get housed when they leave prison, but offender and the community PUBLISHED work or have friends, but she could have her friend who she WEEKLY ONLINE AND MONTHLY IN PRINT prisoners be punished while shoplifters, like me, go back onto the streets went to college with back in the 90s come around. I was jeal- in prison? with no help? I’m not proud to be a shoplifter, ous but could not say anything. far from it, but when you get released from Board of Directors There seems to be two lines prison with a few quid in your pocket and It all started with her slapping me around the head, and up to of thought by not just the nowhere to live, obviously I’m going to screw having a table thrown at me. When I tried to leave her, she Trevor Grove - Chairman Former Editor Sunday general public but those up. It’s in my nature, but I’ve never been a Telegraph, Journalist, Writer and former Magistrate. threatened to take my kids and kill them, so I stayed. I did working for the justice sys- danger to women and children, even when I’m Dr Peter Bennett Trustee, New Bridge housework, took the kids to the park, did the shopping and tem. One line of thought is, drunk. But those who are ‘vulnerable’ get put Foundation and former Governor of HMP Grendon dropped my stepdaughter to school. commit a crime and we will into accommodation. It really pisses me off John D Roberts Company Director employing take away your liberty, lock former prisoners that they get housed but I get turfed onto the When I got back from shopping she always asked for receipts you up for a period of time Louise Shorter CEO Inside Justice and former to prove I had been in town and not out having an affair. All streets. producer BBC Rough Justice as your punishment. Then Alistair H E Smith BSc FCA Chartered Accountant, her ex-partners had cheated on her and she was raped by her there is the other view, we Trustee and Treasurer, New Bridge Foundation twin brother between the ages of 5 and 15, but no one be- will not only take away your Guide for a harmonious jail Phil Wheatley Former Director General of Prison lieved her until she was at secondary school. This is why she liberty but also find ways to Nicky Hughes - HMP Stocken Service. is the way she is. punish you while you are in prison. The following is a very short and simple, idiots The insideteam For many years I took the beatings and cuts, blood constantly guide to a happy and therefore more compli- dripping down my face where she had punched and kicked Surely it is the thin end of ant prisoner. me. After one incident the children were taken into care. The the wedge if punishment 1) Do not mess up our canteen. beatings got worse, I was dragged out of bed in the middle of while in prison is what the 2) Please ensure our mail is delivered on time. the night and thrown downstairs. She even assaulted my dog general public really want. Both incoming and outgoing. for trying to protect me. I started self-harming and was diag- For example, 345 people 3) If the phones break down, please endeavour nosed with severe depression. went to prison last year for to fix them ASAP. John Roberts not paying TV license or 4) If we ask for two toilet-rolls, give them to us. Publisher I told my probation officer about it and she said that it was Council Tax, so that begs the The cost is not coming out of your pocket and and Director just a ‘domestic’ and that I should go to the council and get a question, will some prisoners we are NOT using them to escape. move. I just shut down and took the beatings. I was lonely get punished in prison and 5) Please deliver our newspapers with the TV and craved company. This is when I committed my offence some not - based on their guide still in them and do not read them and ended up in prison. crime? But let me remind all before we have. of those people who work for 6) Do not lie to us. We are not stupid, we just Back then it was unheard of, men being abused by women, but the justice system, coming to got caught. now we even hear of celebrities, like Ross Kemp, who suffered prison IS the punishment. You’re welcome. Erwin James Rachel Noel Smith years of it. If you have been a victim then you should talk to Don’t further punish people Editor in Chief Billington OBE Commissioning someone about it. There is plenty of help, outside and in. who are already in prison. Associate Editor Editor Tell the truth Steven Frogg - HMP Wakefield With regards to the January issue when some ‘unknown’ person praised the healthcare at HMP Wakefield, I would like to counter and oppose that statement. This will be the second Ben Leapman Paul Sullivan David Roberts Reporter and Editorial Operations letter I have tried to send to you, the first, in Feature Writer Assistant Manager which I stated the actual truth about the healthcare, was stopped by the authorities here from reaching your pages. It was deemed ‘inappropriate’, which should tell you some- thing about how they operate. Anything ‘praising’ them goes out, anything negative is Justine Best Carla Rowe Louise Van stopped. Wakefield cannot handle the truth Head of Admin Assistant Mechelen and should wake up to the facts about this Administration Accounts prison. Supervisor KEEP IN TOUCH! Send secure emails, photos & get replies back! • Fast and easy from any Colin Matthews Gary Bultitude John Bowers (mobile) device Website Design Proof Reading Layout and • Design and Advertising Only 40p per message • Available in all *UK prisons Correspondence • Receive a reply • On your phone? Use our app! Inside Time Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton, ** Hampshire SO30 2GB. Telephone: 01489 795945 • Send photos [email protected] / www.insidetime.org *Reply Service now available Facebook: InsideTime / Twitter: @InsideTimeUK in more than 60% of prisons **In selected prisons only Subscribe More info on our website. Inside Time is distributed free of charge throughout the UK prison estate. It is available to emailaprisoner other readers via a postal subscription service. SUBSCRIPTION CHARGES 03333 70 65 50 £35 per annum with concessions available see for further details or visit: website for details or [email protected] ›› Registered with EMAP ‹‹ www.emailaprisoner.com Insidetime March 2020 ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Mailbag 3

How can it be retrospective? Mailbag 2-11 Star Letter of the Month Swaleside Congratulations to this months winner Released IPP prisoner “Kobe Bryant who receives our £25 prize making good e x e m p l i fi e d everything that is I am an ex-prisoner (released IPP) but I still follow Inside Robbie Bleach - good about life.” Our loved ones suffer most Time online as it was always something that I looked forward Page 9 HMP Swaleside to reading each month. Name withheld - HMP Durham Newsround 12-17 I have only been at Swale- I very much doubt that I am going to be the only person to “I’ll enjoy every Being locked up in prison gives us all a lot of time to side for a short time and this raise this issue but feel that I have to say something reference moment of it. You think, and I’m sure I speak for the majority when I say place gets a bad rap. This re- the upcoming legislation with regards to preventing terror- have done it that thoughts swarm through our brains during those ally isn’t that fair because ists from being released from prison at their halfway point. beautifully.” sleepless nights. Recently I found myself thinking about Swaleside is the only prison Page 16 the effects of our crimes on our family and friends, beg- in the country that runs the The objection that I have is to make it retrospective. Now I am Comment 18-33 ging the question, are they suffering more than us? Emotional Wellbeing men- not here to judge what people have done or the length of sen- “I’m still serving toring (EWB) programme. tence that they have received. My issue is that back in 2012, EWB mentors provide 1-to-1 the sentence, not I’m currently in my 4th month of being on remand for when the IPP was abolished, it was stated by the government what will be my 3rd conviction and second time in prison. help and support to resi- in prison but at that time that the ruling could not be made retrospective people’s bigoted After I said I wasn’t coming back the first time, seeing the dents with emotional and because that was the law at the time of sentencing and the Page 22 attitudes.” effect on my family and those close to me, surely that mental health needs. The government did not have the power to overturn the decisions should have been the thing to distract me from a life of mentors also facilitate a Information 34-38 of the courts who used the law as it stood at that time. crime? But no, here I am again. number of peer courses, “Studying will such as Anger Management; open new doors Why do we do this? Is it just a selfish act, putting our own Cognitive Behavioural Ther- “If this is to be the case for IPPs, then how can to a new career.” ‘needs’ before anything else? Is jail an easy escape from apy; Dealing With Conflicts; legislation be brought in to apply a sentence our problems on the out, leaving people behind to pick up Problem Solving; Overcom- Page 37 the pieces? When you think about it, we don’t really have change retrospectively for one particular offence?” ing Addiction and Building Legal 39-43 it so bad, a roof over our heads, meals every day at no Self Esteem. Therefore the argument should be that if the terrorism law is cost, a job or education, essential toiletries provided, free “All I was doing was brought in and made retrospective, then all currently serving healthcare and free gym access. It could be a hell of a lot I’ve seen big changes in the selling to mates IPP (and by this I include not just the people still in custody, worse. Does returning to prison give us the security that people around me. and taking some we crave and with very little to worry about? but also like myself being released on life licence) should myself. Do I have have their sentences put back to a determinate sentence. Page 42 to go to prison?” “This is the only prison In comparison, how much do those we leave behind suf- Jailbreak 44-60 fer? They are left to face the shame and hatred of the local that does anything like The actual time to serve would be extremely simple to calcu- community because they are related to us criminals, this, which should put late as it would simply be the tariff doubled, as the tariff was “Transformations something that they cannot change. It can result in them calculated as half the full determinate sentence. So, someone I see in my work losing friendships and relationships and, in some cases, this place on the map as serving a 2-year IPP would simply be back to a 4-year deter- with offenders is their jobs. Then there’s the financial worries we leave somewhere with hope minate. Probably in 90% of cases this would mean that their inspiring.” Page 48 them, should our families have to take these burdens on for a better future.” sentence is now finished, and we would be able to get back their shoulders? Then there’s the cost of coming to visit on with our lives. us. The staff go out of their way to help whenever they can Maybe we all need to use this time to think about the af- and support us when we fect we are having on those left behind and try to support need them. With even a little them through what is likely to be a difficult time. They bit of hope in your life things don’t have to stick around and support us, but they have, look a lot better. and we should be truly thankful. It’s refreshing to have a gov- The January issue showed high figures of reoffending ernor that has the foresight within 12-months of release, with Durham top at just to help develop and support below 50%. I don’t want to be in that statistic anymore EWB staff and mentors. and pledge to become a better person for the sake of my loved ones. We are aware of the some- times-bad publicity Swale- Here’s to all those people we left behind, you are loved side receives, but we rarely and appreciated more than can ever be expressed. Don’t hear of anything good. This suffer in silence and try not to let our actions hinder your place should be the light in life. Let’s make 2020 the year of change and success, for the dark where hope can be all our sakes. found. 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’, Inside Time, We will be using the new ‘Money Transfer Service’ for prize money so include Botley Mills, your DOB on your entries. Botley, Southampton, To avoid any possible misunderstanding, if you have a query and for whatever Hampshire reason do not wish your letter to be published in Inside Time or appear on the SO30 2GB. website, or yourself to be identified, please make this clear. We advise that wherever possible, when sending original documents such as legal Freephone 0800 144 111 papers, you send photocopies as we are unable to accept liability if they are lost.

We may need to forward your letter and/or documents to Prison Service HQ or another appropriate body for comment or advice, therefore only send informa- tion you are willing to have forwarded on your behalf. 4 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2020

Fighting the IPP Failures do Mailbites Adam Robinson - not define us HMP Thameside Why so one-sided? David Adams - Mr Fairclough - HMP Liverpool I am an activist and go by HMP Guys Marsh the name Pepsi Watson. I I have spent 10-years behind bars and have noticed that prisons across the UK only tally the numbers of alleged assaults against run a YouTube channel When I stop and take a mo- staff, but who keeps the tally on the number of assaults by Crime and Justice TV and I ment to gather my thoughts, prison guards on prisoners? Or do we not matter? I have to say fight the injustice of the I always ponder how myste- that I have been assaulted by staff on numerous occasions, so I cruel, dehumanising, bar- rious life truly is. All the speak from experience. baric and utterly indefensi- twists and turns into the un- ble IPP sentence. I have been known and without that ev- fighting and campaigning er-elusive crystal ball, we False Accuser - False Facts against this horror for nearly can never predict the future. Name withheld - HMP Isle of Wight 4-years now. I am, myself, a So, here I am, surrounded by short tariff IPP detained in- I watched the news yesterday and listened closely to the “Send me back!” the four walls of redemption presenter giving out statistics on rape allegations. It transpires definitely with no right to re- © Deposit Photos and the eternally daunting lease other than via a that the amount of ‘No Further Action’s’ (NFAs) increased. What steel door locking me away does that tell us? Take a thousand cases of NFA and you will politically paralysed Parole from society. Board. ‘Where’s my plane?’ realise that there just has to be a percentage of these which were blatant false-accusers, but we never hear about the Name withheld - HMP Whitemoor The majority of people in the On 7th of January 2020 I at- outside world would see us consequences, if any, for any of them. Why? Why don’t the CPS tended a Probation appoint- as failures and, I’m not or police report those who make false accusations and why are What is the point of a prison transfer agreement if no one ac- they not prosecuted? I believe we should take a cue from ment and was recalled to tually gets transferred? going to lie, it’s hard not to prison for the second time. I look at myself at times and Germany where they no longer give compensation but pay for excellent psychologists to help genuine rape victims. You would want those that know me to I am 5-years into a 17-year life sentence, at this rate a transfer see a failure. However, this appreciate that I am in good doesn’t have to be the case. soon see, as they have in Germany, how many ‘victims’ stop to Nigeria will be pointless. It has been over 2-years since I crying rape once the compensation cash-cow comes to a halt. spirits and being taken care signed all the relevant paperwork, yet I am still here. Where’s This is not game-over this is of by the exceptional staff my plane? just one misadventurous here at Thameside. I also chapter amongst many more Rule 39 ignored wish you to know that the HMPPS is destabilising my family ties by keeping me here. virtuous ones in the story- Trevor Hunt - HMP Winchester fight against injustice goes book of our lives. The worst thing is I know a lot of people from a variety of I am writing this to inform you that HMP Winchester has a total on without me. countries who actually want to be transferred. Why the If your hopes and dreams disregard to Rule 39. I’ve been here for two-years and I have delay? They seem to be in a rush to deport the people who always sealed my Rule 39 Legal Mail and written my name and IPPs should know there are were to come to prison, then don’t want to leave, resulting in legal battles, costing the tax number on the outside. Recently I had to seal an A4 letter with a lot of good people outside congratulations you have payers millions, but the foreign nationals prison population Sellotape as it was the only way it would stay sealed. I posted it working hard to fight the in- succeeded, and you should is well over 10% and not moving. out as normal under Rule 39 and a few days later the letter was justice of this sentence. maybe have a little think about consulting a profes- returned to me and I was forced to open it so a member of staff Truth is on the side of the Why don’t the government focus on those who actually want sional. But for those saner could look inside the letter. I was then told that all outgoing oppressed. Do not ever give to be deported or repatriated, this would save millions of people who didn’t even see Rule 39 mail was opened, the correspondence gone through up hope. pounds. Why is no one addressing this? this blip coming, we have and then posted out. failed but that doesn’t make us failures. This mishap What about us? does not define us. Danny - HMP Nottingham Life is full of failures and Here at Nottingham we get 40p per session, around £7.50 per successes too. We should week. People are talking about how badly treated and poorly take this gift of time to paid the workers in Chinese factories are and say it is ‘inhuman’ Fighting for you, Always protecting your rights re-evaluate our lives and and wrong to make people work for pennies under threat of when the day finally comes, punishment, but it’s what the British Government are doing in and we are released, we can prisons right now. If you refuse to work you will be put on a PRISON LAW leave with our heads held basic regime, where you get very little. DHL prices are going up high - more determined and it seems all the time and prisoners are finding it hard to buy even • Specialists in parole board cases dedicated to truly living a the basic necessities. I hear it is a better situation in the • Lifer & IPP reviews good life. privatised prisons when it comes to wages and canteen prices. • Recall appeals & hearings A recurring topic I hear con- Diabetic nonsense • Experienced advocates with over ten years expertise in parole stantly around this estab- lishment is how individuals Jay Graham - HMP Edinburgh board hearings always took things for I am writing in reply to GG ‘Diabetic Dilemma (January Issue). • Legal Aid Available for most parole/recall reviews & hearings granted, so let’s no longer do As a type 1 diabetic who has had it for the last 15-years, I find this and enjoy every moment his claims that Bovril helps lower his blood sugars completely • Other areas of prison Law work undertaken under private funding of the day. We can become ridiculous! If he is truly a diabetic, as he claims, then he should better versions of ourselves know that insulin and/or exercise is the only thing that helps and strive for what we’ve al- lower blood sugars for type 1 diabetics. As for his complaining National HMP Coverage ways wanted. about the lack of canteen choices for diabetics, he should consider himself lucky he even gets diet lemonade, as the only I always say to those around Over 20 Years Criminal Law Experience sugar-free choice here at HMP Edinburgh is a packet of Polos. me not to give up, gather the lessons our mistakes have FAMILY LAW & CRIMINAL LAW provided, and I promise Eating prisoners’ rations CHILDCARE you’ll find a path you hav- RM - HMP Rye Hill • Police Investigations en’t discovered yet leading Can you please tell me whether it is a disciplinary offence for • Contact With Children • Magistrates Court to a more meaningful life. prison officers to eat rations from the prisoner’s hotplate? Remember, there are no out- • Divorce • Crown Court Cases side factors that control our HMPPS replies • Care Proceedings • Confiscation lives, our futures or our des- There are occasions where staff and managers are encouraged tinies, just ourselves. So, to have a meal from the serving area to assess its quality and take full advantage of this ensure that it is at a good standard. There are also times that 07000 818283 / 26-28 Stuart Street, Luton, Bedfordshire LU1 2SW detour to once again become staff and managers are encouraged to have a meal and sit on proud of ourselves and go on the unit with prisoners to discuss issues in a less formal manner. [email protected] / www.noblesolicitors.co.uk to write many more pro- If it was found that a member of staff had taken a prisoner’s found chapters of our lives. meal, then this matter would be investigated. £10,500 COMPENSATION because of BROKEN FINGER

After a delay in treatment left Lesley in a lot of pain and Lesley was eventually seen by a doctor at hospital 2 needing surgery on his finger, our solicitors helped him weeks later. An x-ray confirmed he had a dislocated finger claim £10,500. and an unsuccessful attempt was made to treat it under Lesley got into a fight, injuring the fingers on his left hand. anaesthetic. He eventually had to have an operation to He went to healthcare where his little finger was strapped. repair the break. Because he was not treated sooner, However, he was still in a lot of pain and he was worried it Lesley experienced prolonged pain and suffering and had was broken. He visited healthcare again and asked for an to have surgery. Our Lawyers investigated his case and x-ray. helped him claim more than £10,000.

Call: 0161 925 4155 I Click: jefferiessolicitors.com I Email: [email protected] The Triangle 8 Cross Street Altrincham Cheshire WA14 1EQ

Michael Jefferies Injury Lawyers is a trading name of Jefferies Solicitors Limited, authorised and regulated by the SRA

3099_MJ_Campaign_Dec2019.indd 2 25/11/2019 10:57 6 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2020

Albert’s theory Follow the money Mailbites Sam - HMP Wakefield Mr Hall - HMP Chelmsford Hypocrites Since the subject has raised R Bagnall - HMP Littlehey Contrary to belief, general behaviours are its ugly head again, in both not linked to offending behaviours by paral- January and February is- I was watching the Jeremy Vine show on TV leling association. Applied psychology pro- sues, perhaps I can supply a recently, and there was a story about people vides that general behaviours are fleeting, little clarification about our in China being named and shamed for wearing pyjamas in public. What annoyed me was that amorphous and fluxuational as cloud forma- canteen services. an ex-high-ranking police officer on the show, tions in the wind. There is no planning or said - ‘People should dress appropriately, how goal associated, thus the link to offending is • DHL are just a sub-contrac- Courage on the bridge tor for HMPPS/NOMS; you present yourself is how you come across illusion created by the profane, driven by the to other people’. There is no doubt at all that lower-ego, in their muddled perspectives. • HMPPS set the prices and receive the profits; this ex-police officer would have said exactly The best of us • HMPPS buys the items the opposite if a man was accused of assault- Offending behaviours are quite different. The wholesale from Bookers, ing a woman that was wearing a very short Marlon Hamer - HMP Berwyn ‘modus operandi’ of offending is premedi- DHL are paid by HMPPS to skirt, and a low top, exposing yards of bare tated, specific and planned with a definite flesh. That woman should be able to dress I am happy to know a real hero, Mr John Crilly. I am from Sal- distribute it (picking and goal in mind. however she pleases, and rightly so. What I ford/Cheetham Hill area of Manchester and I know Crilly packing). can’t understand is that someone so two- from back in the day when we were both users of class A faced can judge other people, or even hold a drugs, now we are no longer drug users. I have come to the Focused modus operandi offending is thus Yes, prison is a business, a position of trust. point in my life, like John, where I realise I’m worth more. entirely differential in tandem with the very corrupt and secretive When I read about John and saw him on TV I was proud of ‘mens rea’ (offending mindset). one at that. I have tried the fact that ‘one of our own’ had thwarted that coward on many times to find out Well done to Mrs Sampey London Bridge. All other behaviour is triggered and driven where the millions made in Darren Townsend (Decency Team) - HMP/YOI by fear(s). By identifying the fear and facing prison industries disappears Hindley I am now on a learning curve. I’ve taken John Crilly’s route it head on, the obstacle vanishes, and reha- to, but I always get the and re-educated myself. I am currently halfway through a BA bilitation of the psyche is achieved. The pro- standard answer - ‘We do Over the Christmas period we were able to raise a hell of a lot of money for three families Hons Arts and Humanities degree, and I feel that education fane will, of course, deny they have any fear not hold this information’. In who we found were struggling. We donated is the key to rehabilitation. blocking their path, driving them in the one workshop, I was privy to money presents for the kids and food. The wrong direction by avoiding. the fact that the net profit in As regards terrorism, what can be done? Up and down the one single year for that governor, Mrs Sampey, raised funds by holding raffles and having violence-free country there are young men and women who, in my opin- Full rehabilitation is verily as simple as that. workshop was £1.2million, ion, are too insulated and too isolated within their own com- but no one could or would months. We would be ever so grateful if you tell me where that money could print this in order to show our gratitude munities. Radicalisation is now a sad part of life in the UK. I Throughcare should include practical and goes or what it is used for. for the fantastic work and support Mrs have to say that it is also very prevalent within the prison en- definitive aid with rehousing, employment, vironment. Isolation within different cultures does exist, Sampey has brought. any addiction issues and relationship media- prisoners who are of the same religion will mix only with The ‘justice system’ provides tion as required in the community. those who share their beliefs. I feel that key workers, prison too many jobs for them to Words not a crime officers and governors could play a key role in breaking want to reduce the prison Name withheld - HMP Onley down these barriers between prisoners. The individuals will then be rehabilitated, population, that’s exactly stable and happy. The happy and content do why they are building more Can I ask how can it be legal or logical that prisoners are given extra days - in reality a My experience of education has helped to turn my life around not offend. prisons and not using the further prison sentence - for using insulting and made me realise the potential everyone in prison has. On money to follow the prison words or abusive behaviour towards staff? This release I now hope to help other men in prison to realise their The above is the only primary solution to the models of Scandinavian is NOT a criminal offence and on the outside it potential and to turn away from crime. rehabilitation dilemma. countries, or the likes of Hol- land or Germany - the coun- is a public order offence, so how come we are given between 12 and 24 extra days in prison A note to John Crilly - The ones who are the bravest among us ‘If you cannot explain it simply, you don’t tries with systems that for this? This cannot possibly be right. are the best of us. even know it well enough’. Albert Einstein. actually work.

[email protected] JANINE vhs 0115 959 9550 DOOLAN fletchers SOLICITORS PRISON LAW SOLICITOR Dedicated Prison Law Department with over 35+ years experience. We offer specialist prison law Money LLB (HONS) advice & representation – nationwide. Laundering LEGAL AID PRISON • PAROLE BOARD REPRESENTATON (PAPER Criminal & ORAL HEARINGS) IPP/LIFERS/EDS/DCR Appeals LAW • RECALL SPECIALIST • ADJUDICATIONS • CATEGORY A REVIEWS Proceeds NATIONWIDE PRACTICE • CSC of Crime LIVERPOOL BASED • PRE-TARIFF SIFTS • SENTENCE CALCULATION Legal aid available for: In addition Lucinda Nicholls Parole Cat A representation • POCA Licence Recall Pre Tari Sift • JUDICIAL REVIEW Legal Aid Available FIXED FEES Return to Closed - Lifers/IIP We also offer FIXED FEES to provide advice for Criminal Matters and representation in other prison law and release related matters 0207 842 1995 VHS FLETCHERS also undertake criminal Write to Lucinda at: I have been quali ed as a solicitor for 22 years and have proceedings & appeals specialised in prison law for 13 years. When I take your case, Write to us: Irene Tolley/ Louise winning Freepost LAWYERS you deal directly with me, an experienced quali ed solicitor 111 Carrington Street, Nottingham NG1 7FE who specialises in Parole and Licence Recall Hearings. www.nicholls-nicholls.com Email: [email protected] Call: 0115 9599550 Insidetime March 2020 ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Mailbag 7 Random act of kindness The land of Backdated Is this prison? Paul Disney - HMP Hull make-believe Chris Harvey - HMP Hull

I attend the Strength2Talk sessions which Kevin Isham - HMP Whatton time I’ve been in prison for nearly four years, and I struggled for are held on Saturday mornings on my wing. Bruce Child - HMP The Verne the first year, missing my family and friends, especially Although I am not a new prisoner, I do enjoy There’s a term that’s becoming very popular when birthdays and Christmas came around. This does not meeting any new residents and chatting over in TV shows and movies in recent years - I read the report in the get any easier. After my first year in prison I came to terms a cup of tea/coffee. These sessions help to get dystopian society. This usually describes a February issue of Inside with being here, I got into a routine and got used to it. I had a things out, such as emotions, self-harming cruel, twisted world of inequality and op- Time, ‘More jail time for few hiccups along the way but got over them with help from and/or suicidal thoughts, and gives an in- pression, as seen in the truly classic movie serious offenders’ and noted friends and family. But, is this prison? sight to prison life as well as clearing up any ‘V For Vendetta’ and ‘The Hunger Games’. On the words ‘It will not be of the myths about life in prison. the small screen there are such gems as ‘The backdated, so current Prison is supposed to be a place for reform, not a place for Handmaid’s tale’ and the BBC’s terrifying prisoners are not affected’. punishment. Your punishment for your conviction is being in I know it is now spring but let me take you prison. Prison staff are supposed to help and encourage re- ‘Years and Years’. back 3-months to what happened before Then I listened to the news form and rehabilitation while maintaining order, but that Christmas. In the two sessions in late De- which said ‘The Government does not mean there are not staff who believe in reform, but What makes the worlds in these tales so dis- cember we discussed kindness and life in- are to introduce emergency there are not enough. The trouble is that there are more staff turbing is the ease in which they came side during the festive season. We touched legislation to end early who would punish you rather than rehabilitate you. about, how freedom and free will can so eas- on what we would miss, such as family, release for terrorists - their ily become state-controlled oppression, with friends, the food and the freedom as well as response to the second One thing I’ve learned is that if you keep your head down how to cope with the added stress and emo- the people told what to say, what to think, appalling attack by a and be polite you can avoid this extra punishment. I’m not tions, and who to go to for help. We talked what to eat and drink. Every aspect of their recently released terrorist. saying that you have to be a pushover, but you have to pick about kindness and how to help the new in- lives managed, watched and controlled, all the battles you can win. take to settle over the festive period and to ‘for their own safety and security’. This, however, will apply to look out for any changes in people who were those currently serving a Another thing I have learned is that rehabilitation only dealing with their first Christmas in prison. And who is to blame? Well, as Hugo Weav- custodial sentence. My comes to those who choose to accept change, with or without ing’s Guy-Fawkes-Masked hero V tells the immediate thoughts were staff help. Some believe that completing programmes does Christmas morning arrived and I swapped people of Britain in a hacked TV broadcast, that this is another knee-jerk not work. This is usually because they don’t believe in my usual grey prison clothes for my own ‘If you wish someone to blame, just look in a reaction, retrospective change or they don’t want to change. brown shirt and beige trousers and in order mirror…’ that is the truly terrifying aspect of legislation - what difference to look really smart I had even made a neck- these cautionary tales - how easily the peo- would it have made if he’d Change is something that everyone endures regularly, even if tie using a blue dishcloth and cardboard. I ple let the state oppress them. Now, I’m not spent another year inside? they don’t realise it. People need to accept change so that went around the wing wishing everyone a saying we’re there yet, in this fluffy-bunny, He would still have re- they can avoid coming back to prison. To reduce reoffending merry Christmas, paying extra attention to everyone’s equal, smoke-free, meat-free mained radicalised, perhaps people need to change and family, friends and prison staff need to support and encourage them to change their ways, the new lads and the elders on my wing. Peo- snowflake paradise, but it aint far away. Do even more so. habits and/or addictions. ple commented on how smart I looked, in- we still have freedom of speech? Yes - as long cluding a couple of staff, and asked how I as we don’t say anything to ‘offend’ anyone. It’s what happens while an offender is inside prison that So this is prison? It’s up to you whether you choose to have a had made the tie. Some people laughed, Free will? Yes - if you choose what the State can make a difference, not life of punishment or a life of change and rehabilitation. Use joked and called me stupid, but at least I had tells you to choose. Are we all equal in this how long he is in there. This your prison sentence as an opportunity to benefit yourself by put a smile on their faces. I took each of the land of make-believe? Of course we are - just elder prisoners a mince-pie, a piece of Christ- government does not have a learning something new. Improve your chances of success on as long as we continue to say, think, eat, clue. release. You owe it to yourself. mas log and a Mix max, and I gave a small drink, wear, live, watch, buy (the list goes gift to those on the Strength2Talk sessions. on) what we’re told is the correct way to be. One of the elder prisoners passed me a note thanking me for the friendship, support and We can help you with all Anything contrary to this makes us ‘offend- BEING ON YOUR kindness, saying that it meant a lot to him. ers’ and that leads to us being re-educated. SIDE IS ONE THING. Criminal and Prison Law cases Sorry - ‘rehabilitated’ in State-controlled On New Year’s Day I dressed the same but FIGHTING YOUR CRIMINAL LAW swapped the tie for a bowtie. This was fash- camps, so we can be released as good little CORNER IS ANOTHER. ioned from green scouring-pad covered with right-thinking, snowflake versions of our- • Police Interview Assistance selves, strictly monitored, managed, bits of an old tee-shirt and padded up with WE DO BOTH. • Magistrates Court the blue dishcloth. Again, I went around the watched and registered lest we display any wing wishing everybody a happy new year. ‘offending’ behaviour again in the future. • Crown Court Advocacy Once again I got comments and laughs but • Defending false allegations yet again I had put a smile on people’s faces. If that sounds like a nice place to be in, then enjoy. But that’s not a free country. Look it • Miscarriage of Justice up, it’s called fascism (it’s all in the diction- Any time in prison is hard and stressful but • Court of Appeal Applications Christmas even more so, but at least by aries and everything!). If that’s the world you dressing up smart, silly, stupid or looking a want to live in, knock yourselves out. As for • CCRC Applications prat, many people who may not have done so me, anyone know where I can buy a Guy otherwise did smile and laugh last Christmas. Fawkes mask? We will always assess if you are eligible PRISON LAW for legal aid. If you are not eligible for legal aid we o er a ordable  xed prices. • Independent Adjudications Miscarriage of Justice? Mark Newby, Hollie Alcock and Nick • Parole Board Hearings Hayles are all Solicitor Advocates and • IPP and Lifer reviews CRIMINAL DEFENCE SPECIALISTS will always reply to your letters and calls. ASHLEY SMITH & CO • Pre Tari and Guittard Applications Our experienced and dedicated team undertake • Cat A reviews Appeals and CCRC Acting on behalf of • HDC applications Parole Board Representation privately funded and QualitySolicitors Jordans • Sentence Calculation and Planning All Prison Law Matters legally aided clients IN ALL PRIVATELY FUNDED MATTERS WE WILL QUOTE FOR YOU A REASONABLE FIXED FEE- STAGED WHERE APPROPRIATE For Life’s Important Moments Please write or call Led by Mark Newby, Solicitor Advocate with a strong record for quashing convictions Ashley Smith & Co Limited, 0208 609 6711 / 6710 Doncaster offi ce: 01302 365 374 4 Priory Place, Doncaster, DN1 1BP Romer House 132 Lewisham High St, 24hr emergency www.qualitysolicitors.com/jordans sts London SE13 6EE 07889 428132 8 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2020 Category A, are you serious? One rule for them We’re all Non-smoking vegans Name supplied - HMP Whitemoor Steve Kidd - HMP Berwyn ‘a minority’ I’m sure that most people will be aware that Category A is the I’ve just watched a documentary about the red-eyed Danny Edwards - HMP Manchester highest security category. This means it is for prisoners death of Stuart Lubbock in the swimming Harry the dog - whose escape from prison would cause the most danger to On a recent visit to my daily education class I the public and police. The aim of Category A is to make es- pool at the home of former TV personality HMP Wandsworth Michael Barrymore in 2001. As a prisoner found that one of the other class members cape impossible by holding prisoners in high security condi- had brought his vape and started to smoke it. who is serving a life sentence for murder tions. All Category A prisoners are placed in one of three Can HMPPS inform me how It is prison rules not to vape in the class- under the Joint Enterprise law I am strug- escape-risk groupings - Standard escape-risk, where there is there have been reports of rooms but at first I didn’t say anything. But gling to understand how Barrymore and the no information to suggest a threat of escape - High Risk, staff suffering the effects of after he continued to use it, I asked could he 7 other people who were present at his home where there is information that there is a risk that the pris- second-hand Spice smoke, not do it or at least sit by a window. As a non- oner may escape, such as previous escape from custody - or that night have not been charged with mur- looking red-eyed and dizzy smoker/vaper it is my right not to be near Exceptional risk, where there is information to show that an der under Joint Enterprise, or ‘secondary lia- and collapsing and needing these fumes. I was greeted with a disgrun- escape is planned. Which all seems very straightforward, but bility’ as they call it now? hospital treatment, and yet tled response and he said that - I was the one only if it works. with the problem as it is just ‘steam and is any prisoner who suffers the Stuart Lubbock suffered awful injuries and non-toxic’. Regardless, I felt offended, but it same symptoms is deemed a I am a Category A High Risk prisoner, I was convicted of sup- died, now there is a raft of specialists and seems that vapers are the majority in prison. plying a large amount of Class A drugs, but I am not an infa- even a police officer saying that it was mur- Spice user and not given the mous murderer, terrorist or gang boss, I am not violent, and der. Add to this the sexual element of his same treatment as staff. I’ve also found the same approach to my nor have I ever tried to escape. My question must therefore death and we are talking about life sentences Why the disparity please? food choices. For a few years now I have be, how, in reality, are decisions made by the Category A that would have to attract 20-year tariffs on done a very good job of maintaining vegetar- panel in London? conviction. HMPPS replies ian/vegan diet. I drink soya milk and enjoy It will be at the discretion of the prison veggie/vegan menu options, but I do know that for every Category A prisoner at an establish- The organisation JENGBA support over a local prison management as sometimes other prisoners make comments ment the authorities give more money from the security like ‘what are you eating that sh*t for?’ budget. Could it be possible that people who do not really thousand of us prisoners who are serving life to whether medical evidence sentences and yet did not commit the actual is needed as part of an adju- warrant such a status are being used to increase financial re- I suppose if you have been a meat-eater since offence. Barrymore and all of those present dication process, or the pris- wards for struggling prisons? birth or a smoker for a long time, making that night know what happened to Stuart oner can raise underlying changes can be difficult. I’m not a believer in I do wonder how it is that convicted terrorists who have tried Lubbock. This stinks of a cover-up, a top TV health issues as part of their ramming ones message down throats like to kill people are lower security categories than me. It does personality with plenty of money does not mitigation should they wish some activists do, and I do respect that other not make sense that the Category A panel can sit down and have to face a jury. ‘Higher powers’ are to do so. people are allowed to have choices, but I be- declare a drug-dealer more of a risk than an actual Jihadi ter- surely protecting these people while the rest lieve in small changes as a starting point. To rorist. Or a child killer, or any murderer. Category A is sup- of us rot in jail. consider that someone is an ‘oddball’ for try- posedly to protect the public, police and state, but I have ing to make healthy choices is just never even physically pushed another person, yet I am the All of our Joint Enterprise cases resulted in disrespectful. same category as a man who coldly executed two police arrest, charges, remand and trials - or is all women with a hand grenade and then killed two men. The SEE that only for people not connected to an in- I know this will be an unpopular opinion but man who committed the last London Bridge atrocities was a ADVERT dustry that protects its millionaire stars? surely I can’t be the only one who has had Category C. Just what the hell is going on? PAGE 54 Disgraceful. this experience? Nothing changes, except for the worse Shane Newman - HMP Cardiff

I am a regular reader of Inside Time and have noticed that prisoners often write in about the broken system. I read it in every issue, prisoners complaining about the smoking ban, or the fact that we are not allowed to vote, or how rehabilitation is a joke and so are the courses we are forced to do. Yet, nothing ever seems to change. In fact, things seem to be getting worse now that we have left the EU.

I was only 15 when I came to prison and before that I did not know where to find class A drugs or how much can be made by selling them, or about how to commit fraud, or how to steal a car, etc. Now I know it all. I am witness to young men and women sentenced to prison for minor crimes but who come out to commit more serious offences.

I believe this Government needs to feel poverty, stress, hardship, abuse, hunger and home- lessness before they can ever understand it. Is a single mother a criminal for stealing food to feed her children? Because I was not born into money or sent to a posh school for a real educa- tion, do I not matter? Am I just ‘prison fodder’ to this Government? According to ‘Rule Britan- nia’ ‘Britons never, never, never shall be slaves’. But we are.

I am ashamed of the way this country is being run, the rich at the top and the poor always stuck at the bottom. I blame people like Boris Johnson and all the other politicians who want to ‘keep the poor in their place’. Even the Queen, living on the money from hardworking peo- ple, if I had my way she’d be outside the Jobcentre with the rest of her family.

But let’s be real about this, it is never going to change, so stop just complaining and do some- thing about it. Make a difference, stand tall and make them listen. We all need to stick to- gether like they do and realise that Brexit was just another excuse for these people to get even richer. They don’t care about us and if we don’t make it happen then nothing will change.

Disclaimer Inside Time is wholly responsible for its editorial content. Comments or complaints should be directed to the publisher and not to New Bridge. Views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily representative of those held by either Inside Time or the New Bridge Foundation. If you wish to reproduce or publish any of the content published by Inside Time in the newspaper or online, you should first contact us for written permission. Full terms & conditions can be found at www.insidetime.org. Inside Time is a ‘not for profit’ publication. Insidetime March 2020 ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Mailbag 9 Don’t they know? Prison TVs On the food Wire KL - HMP Berwyn and comfort Boring Vegan It really does amaze me how Lee Dan - HMP Hewell Tony Lee - HMP Birmingham very little today’s newest In the days before HMP would accept you as a Vegan you had crop of prison officers know Until the late 1990s, prison- to join the Vegan Society and pay £10 for the privilege. At least about the rules and proce- ers didn’t have the luxury of 5 times a week (this was in the days when prisons were under a dures. I suppose I should not legal obligation to supply 3 hot meals a day to prisoners) I was be surprised as I have found having a TV in their cell. For served with a boiled leek. At least, these days, being a Vegan in that even staff who have sup- those reading this who prison does not make you such an anomaly and, hopefully, you posedly been in the job for didn’t know, there used to get the right vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Mind you, over a decade seem to be wil- be ‘TV Rooms’ on the wings thinking about it, there are very few real nutrients in the fully ignorant as well. Taken too soon where you could watch your standard slop served up to everyone else in prison so perhaps programmes. However, this my hope is a forlorn one. Good luck with the campaign. I am a convicted prisoner brought about many prob- and therefore entitled to one RIP Kobe lems, like cons fighting over free letter per week from the which channel they wanted Not so glorious S Relf - HMP Oakwood prison, known as an ‘OL’ (Or- to watch. Elizabeth Williams - HMP Erlestoke dinary Letter). I am also able It is with great sadness that we learned of the tragic circum- There are a number of situations when food in prison becomes to apply for a ‘SL’ (Solicitors stances surrounding the death of NBA basketball great Kobe Although TVs are a positive a hot-button topic. We are exposed to so many damn good Letter) the postage of which Bryant and his daughter. It goes without saying that I offer thing, I believe prisoners food programmes on TV, with Saturday Kitchen, MasterChef will be paid for by the my condolences to all those now mourning the lack of his today, especially the and Nigella all making us wish our in-cell TVs had taste-a-vision prison. I didn’t make this up, presence. Ditto for the family and friends of the other indi- younger generation are far so we could lick the screen. The newspapers often run features these are the rules and have viduals who similarly lost their lives in the helicopter crash. too reliant on having a TV describing how ‘lags live cushy lives with gourmet meals’. On been in place at least since set in their cells. I have seen paper the food may sound a bit gourmet, but that’s on paper. 1971. The appellation ‘Legend of the Game’ is bandied about a lit- cons lose the privilege and tle too much for my liking these days, but it is entirely appro- then kick the hell out of Our food choices run on a four-weekly cycle with a lot of Last week I applied for an SL priate for a man such as Bryant. Indeed, in the modern-day their doors all night - dis- repetition, but every once in a while something new will appear and was told by the officer sports world, other than the likes of Tiger Woods, Roger on the list. I remember one week I noticed ‘Spicy Chicken that he had ‘been in the job rupting the whole wing be- Federer and Lionel Messi, it is difficult to think of another Noodles’ as an option for a Friday evening. The wing was abuzz 12-years’ and had never cause they don’t have the global superstar of comparison to Bryant, who was a bona capacity to do things other - not only could we have fish and chips for lunch - but now we heard of such a thing. Bear would be getting a Chinese for supper! Out of 100 people on our fide icon of our age for his achievements both on and off the than lay on their bed all day in mind that this officer is wing I’d say around 40 of us ordered the Spicy Chicken Noodles. court. watching the square box. working on a lifers wing. Then we waited... Ten days later came the magic Spicy Chicken Surely the very minimum In the precociousness of his sporting prowess and the lar- Noodles Friday. The lunchtime chips had been as cold and that we should expect from I have been in prison for gesse of his philanthropy his actions contributed to our un- sweaty as usual, but as teatime approached anticipation built prison officers is that they over two decades, so, prior derstanding of what it is that makes human beings special. and excitement levels raised for those of us who had ordered have at least a passing ac- to televisions it was books, Kobe Bryant exemplified everything that is good about life the Spicy Chicken Noodles. The food trolley was rolled onto the quaintance with the rules paper and pen. I used my and the world is a less colourful place with his absence. It is wing by the servery workers and we were like kids running to they are supposed to work to brain whilst educating my- unlikely that we will see his like again. The words of tribute the tree on Christmas morning. We queued up, smiling broadly, and impose. to Bryant have been many and varied, and deservedly so. self. Prisoners used to go to clutching our blue plastic plates and bowls and began to shuffle the library every week and forward. Then the first man came out of the servery looking bring back several books crestfallen. Oh dear... It came to my turn and, like Oliver Twist, I each. We wrote a lot more held up my plate and the servery worker placed a packet of and challenged the system dried noodles with a spicy chicken sachet of powdered flavour with the pen. I now have inside, just add hot water. What an utter disappointment! FREE young lads getting frus- trated by not knowing how Vegan info QUOTES to write a simple Comp 1 Name supplied - HMP Rye Hill form and they actually fear In this prison we are issued with weekly Vegan packs which submitting a complaint form contain 7 small Marmites, 7 flapjacks, 14 pieces of fruit, 5 for fear of reprisals. minestrone soups, 14 cartons of soya milk, 1lb of mixed nuts, 1lb of sultanas - and monthly we are issued a ‘source’ lime Can I inform prisoners that shower gel and a Vegan deodorant and toothpaste. Maybe you PAY YOUR POCA they are entitled to com- need to talk to your prison council, or your DNE (Diversity and plain, in writing, if it is a Equality Team) to speak to the kitchens/DHL to see what you Do you need money to pay for your con scation? justifiable complaint. This is are actually entitled to as a Vegan. your human right. Some say, ‘Nothing ever gets done’, but No proper nutrition it won’t if you don’t fight for Symon Rockfellows - HMP Whatton change. LETS GET THE CPS I have been on a veg/Vegan diet for 9-months, due to high Today’s cells have electric- blood pressure and stress anxiety and it has lowered my levels ity, televisions, sink and a to normal. I feel full of energy. I decided to be a veggie/Vegan toilet, even a kettle. Do you as you cannot be a full Vegan here as you just don’t get the OFF YOUR BACK think these ‘luxuries’ came proper nutrition you need, also the Vegan choices in the and reduce your sentence about by chance? No. Pris- canteen cost too much. I buy eggs and peanut butter and also oners used the complaints sardines from the canteen. system as well as the Strangeways riots to bring But its great at Leicester! about change. I must make it Steve Williams - HMP Leicester 41 very clear that I do not advo- I feel that I have to write in order to praise the food at Leicester £ cate rioting as the pen is prison. The kitchen is run by a top lady called Debbie and the mightier than the sword. most amazing kitchen team of Andrew, Maggie, Lisa, Martyn and Kevin. How they keep putting on top quality meals here I POCA cases No Upfront FIVE So, when people think that completed in 2019 Fee REQUIRED STAR REVIEWS will never know as it is always the kitchen that suffers first when complaining, using the offi- there are prison cut-backs. So I would like to thank them on cial complaints procedure, behalf of all the lads who pass through here. Also, big thanks to @ [email protected] 01992 676605 doesn’t do any good, take a Inside Time for giving prisoners a voice when we aint even Bridge Finance Direct, Prince of Wales House, 3 Bluecoats Avenue, Hertford SG14 1PB long look around what you trusted to vote - keep up the good work on behalf of the lads now have in your cell. and lasses trapped in the HMP estate. 10 Mailbag ‘Mailbag’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Insidetime March 2020

Alexander Column of Courage Her love gets Solzhenitsyn Top man me through it Russ Oliver - Things do get better Tommy Smyth - HMP Whitemoor Sam Simon - HMP Highdown HMP Northumberland This is the first letter I’ve In 2017 I was released after Robert I have been using drugs in jail from day 1 and have done so Oppenheimer written to Inside Time in the non-stop for 6 years. In that time all I got to show for it is a long sentence and wanted 23-years I’ve been in prison, bad health, countless nickings, so much block and basic to give up. Despite family but I feel I should share with time, a scar on each part of my body from all the violence it support, work and a second your readers an accomplish- chance, I had a big gap in brings and an empty cell with no canteen and money on ment I witnessed today. Here my life. Then I found my my spends. on F-wing, which is the CSC, best friend again. Despite a an inmate by the name of What a fool! I know. lifetime of mental health Gary Vinter set a target in issues, Cassie was all I our gym to row a marathon I’ve had no respect or any real friends for as long as I can could think of and she came Nicolai Machiavelli Albert Einstein remember. I’ve suffered from depression; paranoid back into my life and made distance of 26.2 miles. Not only did Gary set the target thoughts and my anxiety has been crazy. I’ve been so down me complete. For the first The definition of madness at times I’ve even tried to end my life on more than one oc- time in my life I felt like I of completing this marathon casion. I’ve done nothing but feel sorry for myself. could achieve anything. I Sakir Bhatty - HMP Leeds but he attempted it within worked harder, gave men- the top ten times in the Why me! Boo hoo! tal health talks, did all my Most philosophers happen to share a greater ability to be world for his age range charity boxing and com- (50+), bearing in mind he The whole time I’ve blamed everyone else for my down- much more exceptional in creating a perfect equanimity pletely turned my life around. has had no coaching or nu- falls, always made an excuse why it’s not my fault and it’s when searching for the most indispensable logic. To be con- cise, some of the most learned philosophers happen to have trition experts or taken any out of my hands, no one cares, everyone is against me. Every time I wanted to give been much more susceptibly adept when having to endure supplements. In fact, all he No one is going to help me, I’m on my own, there’s no love. up, hurt myself or turn to immense hardships, like, for example Solzhenitsyn conjured did was take on water. drink, Cassie was there to up some of the most finest literate working while oppressed, pick me up. When I needed “I smoke to cover the pain, no one cares, I’m so in exile, and dying of an incurable illness, and in a country The charity he did this for to talk she was always alone. It’s how I cope, I blanket the emotions I that he could not converse nor communicate in due to being was Help For Heroes, which there and would give up very limited in speaking any of Kazakhstan’s remote feel with more drugs. Then the come down! ” her own time to support cares for military personnel, dialects. me. I love this girl so much which I’m sure many of your I hate this feeling, can’t do it, need the next joint. Just one and owe her everything for readers will agree is a noble I find that a lot of ingenious techniques are applied when more, wait, last one. I’ll stop tomorrow. Guess what? Tomor- all she has done for me. cause. The event was wit- row never comes, or god forbid, you might not even see to- having to assimilate the intrinsic meaning by the greats of nessed by the gym staff and morrow. We all know or have seen someone have a code Nearly two years ago I was yesteryear, from the eccentric to the extreme in no particular was also evidenced on order. From Rene Descartes, to the stealthy Nicolai Machia- blue, right? I’m going around and around day in, day out. recalled and made at- camera. I’ve had enough, I’m done! No more! tempts to take my life, but velli, plus popular ones that defied convention like Albert Einstein, to the more shrewd, astute businessman like Robert Cassie fixed me with her I am proud to say that Gary It took me 6 years to say ‘I’m done’. It was so hard at first, Oppenheimer, who happened to be on a par with Thomas visits, letters and phone- completed his marathon in a sweating, not eating, angry, stressed, hardly sleeping. But, Edison, or the much more complex semiologists like Fredrick calls. On the 30th of April time of 2 hours, 42 minutes a week in things got so much better, I started eating, going Nietzsche or Theodore Dostoyevsky, whom both delved deep 2019, she made me the and 16 seconds. There are to the gym and started thinking of my life and where I want proudest man alive when into the human mind and way of thinking but tended to question only 5 of us on this unit, to be, the jobs I could do and my family. she became my wife here their own work, which is a common trait as some people tend plus staff, and Gary’s in HMP Northumberland, a to believe that you, yourself, are your most valuable critic. achievement raised just Within one month I had gained some real mates who were day I’ll never forget. I mar- around me not for a few pulls on my joint but because I was ried my best friend and ‘There is nothing that is a more certain sign of insanity, than to under £500. Much praise to cool and fun to be around. I stopped owing canteen and soulmate, if it wasn’t for do the same thing repeatedly and expect the results to be dif- Gary and thanks to the peo- paid my debts. I was eating well and putting weight back her love and support I ferent’ (Albert Einstein) …Hence law breakers. ple who sponsored him. on, I looked so much better. Clean skin, fresh trim, clean wouldn’t be here today. Re- clothes and cell. Even the screws, who I thought were just cently, we’ve been through Treat us equally out to get me, gave me a job to get me out of my cell. They a bad patch, but we have What’s our have left me alone since. I don’t have anyone chasing me always belonged together, Name withheld - HMP Winson Green for money, my family now pick up the phone and are glad and we can fix this. With when I ring. Things are looking and feeling great! I have my beautiful wife in my life I recently read an article which stated that minimum? got some respect; self-respect and it feels great. I can get released, make a an illegal immigrant who was kept in an im- Name withheld - HMP The Mount future, make her proud of migration centre for longer than he should Things do get better! No one’s going to help you, unless you me again, but most of all I have been was paid £110,000. help yourself first. If anyone out there thinks they are alone can achieve anything. Thank Here at The Mount we are locked up for 26 in this struggle, you’re wrong. There’s so much you can do. you Cassie, for everything hours at a time during the weekend, not even I do believe that if the government has kept Get the ball rolling from now on and see for yourself. you have done for me. coming out for food. Even in Segregation you someone longer than they should have then are allowed out for an hour. Can HMPPS tell this person does deserve to be compensated for their bungling ineptitude and the extra us the official target for time out of cell, amount of time they have been incarcerated. please? Deton Solicitors Dedicated Prison Lawyers For You DEFENDING YOUR CAUSE!!! Over 60 years’ combined experience But, while I was thinking about this, I HMPPS replies Experienced Representation in Prison Law, thought about all the IPP prisoners who have There are currently no mandatory targets for Criminal Defence and Appeal & Reviews IPP & Lifer Parole Reviews been kept in prison long over their tariff time out of cell, although there are expected • Independent Adjudications Licence Recalls dates set by the judge. So, how is it that an il- standards that inform the minimum regime in • Appeals against conviction and sentence legal immigrant who should not even be in operation. There are plans to develop targets • Challenges to sentence calculations Independent Adjudications this country is given compensation, when • Re-categorisation & knock backs appeals (Private) for time out of cell as well as for purposeful native British people serving IPP do not get • ROTL applications and appeals (Private) Sentence Calculations activity and these will help to bring focus on • Judicial Review treated in the same way? regime provision. • Parole review IPP & lifers Criminal Defence Work • Parole reviews for recall • Crown/Magistrate Court Representation At the end of the day the judge has given Call Stephanie Brownlees today on Prisons are required to have a Regime Man- • Confiscation of Assets and Forfeiture Cases them a tariff when the inmate should be re- agement Plan, which is designed to facilitate We also handle Personal Injury Compensation Claims 01902 275 042 leased and any amount of time the inmate the maximum safe regime with the staffing For Prompt representation call William or Mo on spends in the quagmire of the British justice 0208 617 0120 or 0757 240 1468 West Midlands House, Gipsy Lane, system. Everybody should be treated in the resource available. Staff and prisoner safety is Alternatively please write to: Willenhall WV13 2HA same manner, so why not compensation for the priority when making a decision about the 28 Portland Road, South Norwood, London SE25 4PF IPPs who are in this country legally? level of regime it is feasible to deliver. £29,500 COMPENSATION because of a BROKEN NOSE

When Ray was attacked by his co-defendant, he was left Ray sustained a severe nose fracture and experienced with serious injuries to his face and nose. We handled nausea, headaches and facial swelling. Ray’s claim and he received nearly £30,000 in compensation. As a result of his nose injury, he lost his sense of smell and required an operation to straighten his nose. The prison had been warned to keep the Ray and his co- defendant apart due to the high risk of attack upon Ray. He was also affected psychologically and is now afraid of Ray had already been attacked by the same inmate and other inmates. After Ray contacted us, we started work on had made a complaint using a COMP1 form in which we his claim straight away. Liability was admitted early on and explained he was fearful for his life. When he was attacked, Ray received £29,500 in compensation.

Call: 0161 925 4155 I Click: jefferiessolicitors.com I Email: [email protected] The Triangle 8 Cross Street Altrincham Cheshire WA14 1EQ

Michael Jefferies Injury Lawyers is a trading name of Jefferies Solicitors Limited, authorised and regulated by the SRA

MJ_Campaign_Dec2019.indd 1 19/11/2019 14:31 12 Newsround www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 More prisoners ‘Reconsideration’ challenges Prisons are crumbling develop drug helping prisoners problem in jail Prison buildings are crumbling and promises to improve them are The ‘reconsideration mechanism’ was introduced last July being broken, a Government watchdog has warned. The number of prisoners after controversy over the granting of parole to a man developing drug problems convicted of serial rape. Announcing it, then-justice secretary The report found a backlog of 63,200 while in custody has David Gauke said it would ‘provide reassurance to victims Inside Time report maintenance jobs, with 500 prison places doubled in five years, official that if a Parole Board decision appears flawed, it can be being lost every year due to poor physical figures have shown. challenged and looked at again’. However, the right to appeal condition. Surveyors found that 49 out of 117 goes both ways. While the Justice Secretary can object on Dozens of prisons need major repairs to stay prisons need major repairs in the next three The proportion saying they behalf of victims to a prisoner being granted release, a open, hundreds of cells are being taken out years to stay operational, while two are so had become addicted whilst prisoner can also object to a parole ‘knockback’. of service each year due to disrepair, and bad they risk “imminent breakdown”. at their present jail rose from there is a backlog of tens of thousands of 6% in 2014 to 15% in 2019, Now the Parole Board has released the first figures, showing maintenance jobs. Meanwhile prisons could The Conservatives won December’s election according to surveys by HM that in fact it is prisoners who are lodging most appeals – and be full to overflowing by 2022, as the number on promises to build 10,000 new prison Inspectorate of Prisons. having the most successes. During the first six months of the of people jailed rises faster than new prisons places at a cost of £2.5 billion, recruit 20,000 scheme, there were 152 applications to overturn parole can be built. more police officers and lengthen sentences. The figures emerged in an decisions, of which 140 came from prisoners and only 12 from However, the NAO cautions that the Prison analysis of data by think the Justice Secretary. In 13 cases the applications were The findings come in a damning report on Service will struggle to deliver. It points to a tank Reform, as it issued a successful, with prisoners winning in 11 cases and the Justice English and Welsh prisons by the National previous promise, in 2016, to provide 10,000 report calling for fewer Secretary in only two cases. Audit Office (NAO), which scrutinises new-for-old prison places by 2020. So far only people to be jailed. Government spending. The report, published 206 have been built, with a further 3,360 due Under the new system, Parole Board decisions which could be last month, lists problems including leaking by 2024, due to funding delays. Reform, which has close subject to review have ‘provisional’ status for 21 days, while roofs, failing heating systems, broken cell links to the Conservative both sides decide whether to appeal. Objections can be lodged windows and observation panels, leaking The NAO also cautions that by officials’ own party, pointed out that on the grounds that the decision was ‘irrational’ or ‘procedur- and unscreened toilets, and rat infestations. estimates, prisons may soon be full. It says: security measures to combat ally unfair’. “HMPPS undertook preliminary analysis to drugs vary widely between It says Whitehall officials have estimated that assess the impact of the additional police prisons. It said that while the The figures were unveiled by Caroline Corby and Martin £194 million needs to be spent per year on officers on prisons. Its analysis suggests that Government’s promise of Jones, the Chair and Chief Executive of the Parole Board, at a prison maintenance, yet in the past three the proposed 10,000 new places may not be £100 million to bolster meeting last month with MPs and peers in the All-Party years only £78 million a year has been spent. enough to meet the anticipated higher security would help in the Parliamentary Group on Penal Affairs. demand. Its current plans, do not account for short term, more staff would The report, called Improving the Prison further increases in the prison population also be required. In the same reforms last July, the Parole Board began Estate, says: “HM Prison and Probation flowing from its plan to increase the mini- providing crime victims with a summary of the reasons why Service (HMPPS) has committed to providing mum sentence length for the most serious It urged the Government to their attacker was granted or refused parole. So far 2,500 of a safe, secure and decent prison estate, but offences. The forecasts are highly uncertain replace short-term prison the summaries have been provided. its plans to achieve this are failing. It has not but suggest that, without intervention sentences with alternative been able to provide enough prison places, in beyond new places under construction, community penalties, in In 2018/19 the Parole Board released around 3,000 prisoners, the right type of prisons, and at the right demand for prison places could exceed order to make jails less progressed around 600 to open conditions, and rejected time, to meet demand.” supply between October 2022 and June 2023.” overcrowded and more 10,000 applications – a success rate for prisoners of around stable. 25%. In 40 cases, prisoners who had been granted parole went on to commit serious further offences. Reform presented figures showing that the use of community sentences for WILSONS AUCTIONS minor offences had de- creased by 52% since 2010, even though they are WE CAN SELL YOUR ASSETS cheaper than prison and lead · Do you have an outstanding confiscation order? to lower reconviction rates. · Would you like a free valuation and a no obligation The report also warned that quote to sell your assets for the highest price? the Government’s pledges to recruit 20,000 more police officers and make violent WILSONS AUCTIONS CAN HELP and sexual offenders serve As the sole agent for over 40 law enforcement agencies, Wilsons Auctions specialises more time behind bars in selling assets that are subject to confiscation proceedings, often in sensitive would add to pressure on the circumstances. We are the largest independent auction company in the UK and Ireland prison system. It said some All seeing eye and with 80 years of experience, we can sell assets worldwide. old jails should be closed.

Aidan Shilson-Thomas, Police gain powers to combat drones Reform researcher and Police will gain powers to land and seize drones flying near author of the report, said: prisons, and stop and search suspected operators, under “There must always be a plans unveiled by the Government. place in prison for those who Jewellery Cars Property All Assets commit serious crimes. Launching Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft However, prison must also Bill in the House of Lords, transport minister Baroness Vere be an opportunity for said: “Drones are being used to smuggle drugs, weapons, For more information inmates to change their mobile phones and tobacco into prisons. In 2018, there were behaviour. FREEPHONE 0300 124 0438 168 incidents of drones being used to smuggle items into prison. This places prisoners and prison staff at risk and Simply provide us with the following Name Solicitor (if any) “Stabilising the system undermines rehabilitation.” details and we can do the rest! Prison / Prison Number Your Asset Details means stemming the flow of drugs, reducing overcrowd- Police and prison chiefs will also gain powers to authorise ing, fixing the crumbling Trench Lock 2, Telford, Shropshire, TF1 5YL the use of counter-drone measures to combat illegal drone estate and improving officer use. Since November, it has been a requirement for drone retention. Its long-term operators to register and take an online competency test. sustainability requires a www.wilsonsauctions.com Ministers have launched a competition for inventors to come serious conversation about Northern Ireland | England | Republic of Ireland | Scotland | Wales up with new ways to stop drones being used to smuggle how many people we lock up contraband into prisons. and for how long.” Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Newsround 13

Looking Prisoners missing Benefits on Newsbites release day Back... out on hospital treatment More ex-prisoners recalled through the Inside Prisoners will receive The number of ex-prisoners being recalled on licence has hit a More than 30,000 hospital appointments for prison- benefits payments on the Time archives ers are cancelled each year, potentially putting their new high, official figures show. On Dec 31 there were 8,434 day they are released under people in English and Welsh prisons having been recalled from February 2016 health at risk. a scheme being trialled at licence - more than one in ten of the prison population. The one jail. They will be allowed A study found that 40% of outpatient appointments made for number of people being recalled rose by 12% year on year, with to register a claim for prisoners are called off – double the rate among the general Universal Credit by tele- recalls from Home Detention Curfew showing a particularly population. Researchers said a shortage of escorting officers phone whilst still in custody. steep rise. The most common reasons for being recalled were appears to be to blame for many of the cancellations. They non-compliance with conditions, facing further charges, failure warned that delays to hospital care for prisoners could mean If it is approved, they could to keep in touch or failure to reside at the agreed address. that cancers become harder to treat while diabetics may run a receive money within hours greater risk of amputations. of walking out of the gates. Prison Service named as gay-friendly employer The Nuffield Trust, a health think-tank, analysed NHS data to Under current rules, The Prison Service has been named as one of the UK’s most determine for the first time how many prisoners have hospital Universal Credit can only be gay-friendly employers in annual rankings from the LGBT rights appointments, how many turn up, and what they are treated claimed once a prisoner has charity Stonewall. It was praised for measures including the for. Dr Miranda Davis, a senior fellow at the Trust and lead been released, meaning it setting-up of Pride in Prisons and Probation, a support network author of the study, said: “The punishment of being in prison takes weeks for the first Medway scandal for LGBT officers and staff. In Stonewall’s 2020 rankings, the should not extend to curbing people’s rights to healthcare. “Having watched the BBC’s payment to be made. Yet our analysis suggests that prisoners are missing out on Ministry of Justice appeared in fifth place. The assessment recent Panorama programme includes prison, probation and court staff as well as civil it was a horrifying reminder of potentially vital treatment.” The trial, by the Department servants at headquarters. The ministry’s permanent secretary, the systematic violence suff for Work and Pensions, is ered by children in prison. Among the report’s other findings are: taking place at Barlinnie, the Sir Richard Heaton, said: “I’m incredibly proud that we’ve been largest prison in Scotland. recognised as a leading employer for LGBTI+ people.” Instead of being cared for, l Injury and poisoning caused by lack of insulin. Prisoners will also get work According to Stonewall, one in three gay people feels unable to they are being subjected to were the most common psychological and physical reasons for prisoners to be l In a quarter of prisoner coaches to help them find come out to work colleagues. In 2018 the charity named senior trauma.” admitted to hospital, inpatient admissions, use of jobs. prison officer Andy Holmes of Stafford its “Ally of the Year” for Mailbag - HMP Swaleside accounting for 18% of cases. psychoactive substances setting up the first support group for LGBT prisoners. Describing the trial, a DWP From pillar to IPP post was recorded in the hospital l There were 508 hospital notes. spokesman said: “Jobcentre “Over the years - same as Watchdog warns on forensics reports admissions as a result of staff will support prisoners every other IPP prisoner stuck A watchdog has claimed that legal aid cuts could lead to head injuries, including l During the 12-month to obtain identification in this barbaric system - I’ve miscarriages of justice. The warning came from the Forensic fractures, brain injuries and period, 56 prisoners gave documents, prepare their had many, many unwarranted scalp wounds. birth, of whom six gave CVs and identify training, Science Regulator, Dr Gillian Tully, who oversees the forensics and unjust liberties to endure. birth either in prison or on work experience and other labs which analyse samples from crime scenes. Lab results are At times I’ve felt no better l There were 39 prisoners the way to hospital. employment support. They presented to juries in expert reports. But Dr Tully warned that than a stray dog kicked from admitted to hospital due to will be given help to fill in cuts were preventing defence lawyers from hiring independent pillar to post…” diabetic ketoacidosis, an l The financial value to the Mailbag - HMP Ranby their benefit claims through experts to scrutinise the reports - leaving “less of a safety net” avoidable and potentially NHS of the missed appoint- restricted and supervised against wrongful convictions. Dr Tully was speaking at a life-threatening ments was around £2 Not so toasty access to computers, and to meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Miscarriages complication of diabetes million. “I am writing to highlight just the dedicated phone line of Justice in February. Since the state-owned Forensic Science how hideous things can be in where those eligible will be Service closed in 2012, police forces have analysed samples in able to arrange a payment on prison. This morning, as I was In 2017/18 there were 83,000 outpatient appointments made their own labs or paid private providers. Dr Tully said that to for prisoners. Of these, 12,000 (15%) were cancelled “by, or on the day of their release.” queuing up for toast, an older save money, forces were limiting the number of samples tested behalf of, the patient”, 13,000 (16%) were logged as “did not lady began complaining - thus reducing their chances of finding evidence to implicate about her toast being cold….” attend – no advance warning given”, and 7,000 (9%) were Will Quince, a minister at the Mailbag - HMP Holloway cancelled by the hospital. DWP, said: “Without access or clear their main suspect. to work or money some can In the same year, 18,000 prisoners were taken to A&E and Free NPS toolkit for feel pushed to re-offend, and Suicide predictor tool may go national 12,000 were admitted to hospitals as inpatients. Overall, this pilot aims to take prison staff prisoners used hospitals significantly less than people of the A monitoring system that warns staff which prisoners are at risk prisoners out of the cycle of “Public Health England (PHE) same age and gender in the general population, despite many of suicide could be extended to prisons across the country. crime and get them into have released a free resource people in custody having complex health conditions. The Vulnerability Predictor Tool looks at every prisoner’s work. Working together with to assist prison staff about pattern of making phone calls, receiving visits, attending work new psychoactive substances the Scottish Prison Service, The report, called ‘Locked Out: Prisoners’ Use of Hospital or education, and even ordering from the menu. It flags up (NPS) in prisons.” the UK Government is Care’, was presented in February at a summit of NHS chiefs anyone who seems to be self-isolating - which could indicate Newsbite and government health officials. The researchers said their determined to ensure self-harm or a suicide attempt. The software was developed by findings raise ‘serious questions about the level of unmet ex-offenders stay out of healthcare need in the prison population’. prison for good.” private operator Serco for use in its six UK jails, and early results have been positive. Now public-sector prisons are showing an interest in adopting the system, according to a BBC report. Wyn Jones, Serco’s custodial operations director, called the system “a Important Parole Case Coming Up? simple but effective way of providing early warning”. Jerry Get Someone Spencer, director of Serco’s Doncaster prison, said incidents of self-harm had declined since the system was introduced there Who Gives a $@*#! last summer. “I can’t believe how fortunate we were in choosing 99% of Clients happy with the Emmersons. You were amazing, I would recommend Emmersons to anyone looking for an approachable and Teenagers employed as officers outcome of their case reliable firm of Solicitors.” There are 62 teenagers working as prison officers, the Ministry 52 John Street, 137A Back High Street, Gosforth, of Justice has disclosed. The figure emerged as officials Nearly all clients achieved release or Sunderland SR1 1QN Newcastle NE3 4ET Island of hope open conditions published a breakdown of officers’ ages in response to a “As soon as I stepped onto 0191 567 6667 0191 284 6989 Freedom of Information request. In the 16-to-19 age group the island the first thing I was Freephone there were 33 male and 29 female officers. Of a total of 22,427 aware of was the overpower- We are experts in category A reviews officers employed in September, 16,040 were male with an ing sense of hope. The and independent adjudications 0800 193 0146 atmosphere was so calm…” emmersons-solicitors.co.uk average age of 41 and 6,387 were female with an average of 36. Dr Sarah Lewis on her visit to Parole Hearings • Adjudications • Recalls • Category A Reviews Seven officers, all male, were still working despite being over EMAP Norway’s Bastoy prison Registered with 70. The average age at which officers retired was 60 for men Members of the Association of Prison Lawyers island and 59 for women. 14 Newsround www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

Scottish Young Newsbites prisoners criminals get the vote ‘not liable’

Continued from front page Under-25s have immature brains and may not be fully How prisoners will cast their responsible for crimes they votes may be problematic, but commit, researchers have Rallying cry claimed. the new law says that their Credit: JENGba home constituency will be worked out based on their Joint enterprise campaign The finding comes in a Remembering a grave wrong previous home address, with report commissioned by the their prison address only A campaign has been launched to allow hundreds of prison- Scottish Sentencing Council Campaigners lay wreath at Derek Bentley’s grave (SSC), which is about to used as a ‘last resort’ to pre- ers convicted under the joint enterprise law to have their A 19-year-old who was hanged for a murder he did not commit review the way young people vent any influencing of local appeals heard. The protest group JENGbA published a draft has been commemorated with a wreath-laying ceremony on are punished when they results. They will not be al- bill which would make it easier for prisoners to get their cases the anniversary of his death. The event at Derek Bentley’s grave break the law. It could lead lowed out of prison to vote but heard by the Court of Appeal. It was drafted by trainee was attended by his niece, Maria Bentley-Dingwall, and by to a regime where under-25s justice campaigners. Bentley and his accomplice Christopher must vote either by post or solicitor Charlotte Henry, whose own brother is serving life for murder after being convicted under the joint enterprise law. receive lighter sentences Craig, 16, were cornered by police during a burglary attempt in proxy (getting someone else Around 100 people attended a launch rally at the House of than those over 25 north of November 1952. According to police, an officer asked Craig to to cast their ballot for them). Commons last month. On March 25, campaigners will march the border. hand over his revolver; Bentley shouted “Let him have it, Chris”; Scotland has already led the on Parliament to hand in the bill. In a test case in 2016, R v and Craig shot and killed PC Sidney Miles. Both teenagers were way by lowering the voting Jogee, the Supreme Court ruled that judges had been inter- The report was written by convicted of murder, Craig because he pulled the trigger and age to 16. preting the law wrongly for 30 years. However, people experts at the University of Bentley under the law of joint enterprise. The Court of Appeal convicted during that period have no automatic right to get Edinburgh, who reviewed quashed his murder conviction in 1998. Emily Bolton of the law The extension of voting rights their appeals heard. JENGbA’s bill would give prisoners the existing evidence about charity Appeal said: “This anniversary reminds us that wrongful is expected to affect around automatic right to appeal where their conviction was based brain development, psychol- convictions are inevitable, and that when they occur, we do not 1,000 prisoners in Scottish on an interpretation of the law now declared erroneous. ogy and “cognitive maturity” have unlimited time to set them right.” prisons - although this num- Tireless campaigners page 35 in young adults. ber may fall due to plans to Self-harm at record high abolish sentences of less than Prisons fiddle figures to meet targets A summary of the findings Self-harm among prisoners has hit a record high, according to a year in Scotland. Remand issued by the SSC said: “The figures from the Ministry of Justice. There were 61,461 incidents prisoners across the UK have A senior Prison Service official has described how prison areas of the brain governing in the year to September, up by 16% from the previous 12 months. The Government admitted that the figures were “a always had the right to vote managers fiddle performance figures to meet targets. emotion develop sooner major cause for concern” while prison reform campaigners said although many were unable Examples include altering the dates on forms to make it look than those which assist with cognitive abilities and they reflected poor conditions, overcrowding, and regimes to surmount the hurdles to as if they were completed on time, and moving prisoners out of doubled-up cells at the end of each month. The account self-control. This imbalance which left prisoners with little to do. A total of 12,740 prisoners vote. In England, Wales and came from Dr Jamie Bennett, a deputy director of HM Prison explains the increased self-harmed during the period, each doing so an average of 4.8 Northern Ireland all con- and Probation Service, and a former prison governor. He risk-taking and emotional- times. The problem was five times worse in women’s prisons, victed prisoners are pre- carried out 75 days of observations and 92 interviews at ly-driven behaviour com- with 3,007 incidents of self harm per 1,000 female prisoners vented from voting. Scottish prisons between 2007 and 2017, to study management styles. monly attributed to young compared with 633 per 1,000 male prisoners. The quarterly prisoners in other parts of the Speaking in the service’s annual Perrie Lectures, Dr Bennett people. Safety in Custody statistics also showed there were 84 self-in- UK are unaffected and will warned that target-setting led to “gaming the system” in flicted deaths in the 12-month period, down from 92 over the still be prevented from which officials “resort to varying strategies and practices, “As the brain continues to previous 12 months. There was a 2% drop in the number of voting. including illegitimate ones, in order to meet the targets”. develop during our late assaults, to 33,222. teens and into our twenties, and in light of these wider ‘Give veterans their own wings’ DAVIES & JONES findings, the research finds Research by the charity Barnardo’s concluded that accommo- Nirinder Dhillon that there is a strong case for dating ex-Forces personnel together would help them “recon- SOLICITORS nect with their military past”. The report praises the UK’s first Nationwide coverage considering cognitive wing for veterans, established at Parc in 2015. It says: “Separate Experienced Prison & Criminal maturity in judicial deci- veteran wings are a positive initiative at larger estates, or a Specialising in sion-making up to at least Defence Solicitor regional wing for several smaller estates.” Entitled A Needs Criminal Defence and age 25.” Independent Adjudications Assessment of Veterans in Custody, their Families and Children, the report recommends extra help for veterans in prison, with Prison Law Other factors such as drug or consistent and funded veteran support services in operation O f f e r i n g Pre-Tariff & Tariff Reviews alcohol use, or “adverse across all prison estates. Parc is also commended for introduc- childhood experiences” N a t i o n w i d e S e r v i c e Category A reviews ing separate veteran family days - attended by prisoners, their - which include losing a families, and military charities. parent or growing up in care • All Criminal Court Proceedings Parole Reviews - can delay brain develop- Exams for prison officers ment even further, the report • Parole Applications New prison officers will be required to have academic qualifi- Re-categorisation finds. • Licence Recall cations for the first time. As part of an apprenticeship scheme HDC “Tagging” introduced this year, recruits must have GCSE grade C or above • Appeals The SSC is about to embark in English and Maths. Those who lack the grades will be asked on a 12-week public consul- • Adjudications Criminal appeals to pass a Level 2 functional skills test - equivalent to a GCSE tation on draft guidelines for grade C - during their first 18 months as a condition for staying sentencing young people. Contact Police interviews in their job. Until now, the career of a prison officer has been open to people who left school without any qualifications. David Rees or Simon Palmer All criminal matters Sheriff Principal Ian Under the training scheme, recruits will undergo 12 to 18 Davies & Jones Abercrombie QC, chair of the months of on-the-job and classroom learning before receiving Legal Aid Available SSC’s Sentencing Young a Level 3 Custody and Detention Professional Apprenticeship 32 The Parade, Roath, People Committee, called the qualification. Prison reform campaigners pointed out that even Cardiff, CF24 3AD (Fixed fee options also available) report “highly significant” after the change, prison officers will be much less qualified and said it would “add to the than those in other lines of work. Frances Crook, chief execu- Tel: 029 2046 5296 07539 406 411 debate around how the tive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said on social or 24 Hour Emergency Number: Write to: Nirinder Dhillon criminal justice system in media: “Police, nurses, teachers are expected to be degree 079 7096 9357 PO Box 666, Egham, TW20 2DW Scotland deals with young qualified. Prison officers are to be taken up to GCSE grade C in people who offend”. English and Maths.” Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Newsround 15

Prisons chief jailed for Trump boasts of prison World prison review extortion reform A senior official in the Russian President Donald Trump has prison service shot himself sparked controversy with a dead in court moments after TV ad boasting of his role in being jailed for extorting freeing a long-term prisoner. money from a colleague. Alice Marie Johnson, 64, was Viktor Sviridov, 71, once head released in 2018 after serving of the service’s motor 21 years of a life sentence for transport department, was Every life matters cocaine trafficking. President found guilty of obtaining Putting them out on the out Trump granted her clemency £120,000 illegally from its after reality TV star Kim former deputy director, and Are prisoners’ lives important? Former prisoners start forestry company after When the Australian government decided not to evacuate Kardashian West visited the sentenced to three years in working as firefighters in prison prisoners from the maximum-security Lithgow Correctional White House to plead on her prison. He pulled out a pistol, It was just three years ago that Lawrence Jaramillo and Joshua Centre near Sydney when the devastating bush fires were behalf. Melendrez were prisoners at the Central New Mexico which had been given to him raging outside the prison walls, Angela Williams posed the as an award and which he Correctional Facility. While there, the two were part of a above question in the Guardian: In the ad, aired in a prime slot state-run forestry program that helped prisoners learn about had apparently smuggled during American football’s fire prevention and fire fighting. At times, they were among through security checks at “They’d have been smelling the smoke for days, seen the stories Superbowl, Johnson declares: those on the front lines of a blaze. the court in Moscow, and on TV about them. They’d know that the fires were coming. But “I’m free to hug my family, I’m shot himself in the head. they wouldn’t be able to do anything. They’d have to trust their free to start over. This is the Now, in the time since their release, Jaramillo and Melendrez Sviridov’s lawyer said his safety to the same people who lock them in - trust their lives to greatest day of my life, my have started their own forestry company in hopes of both client had been expecting a the people whose job it was to break them. assisting the state with forest fires and proving to the public not guilty verdict, and added heart is just bursting with that there’s life beyond prison. Jaramillo said: “I have a lot of that the court should have Was leaving the prisoners in Lithgow locked up to face a fire the gratitude. I want to thank family members that have been in and out of prison. Some of them been more lenient given that only answer? If the prison defences failed and inmates died, President Donald John keep going back. I would like them to see they could make it.” Sviridov had terminal cancer. was that part of their punishment? Did they consent to these Trump.” risks when they committed their crimes? Do people in prison All Around Forestry has six employees, all of whom worked matter less in an emergency than those who are free? The ad also carried a message through the same program, and the co-founders have encour- He was the latest Russian prison official to kill himself from Trump’s re-election aged other former prisoners to apply. “There is life after prison, We like to pretend that prison is about rehabilitation. Incarceration following allegations of campaign: “Politicians talk and that’s what I would like for them to take from this,” is supposed to help you become a better person. But prisoners criminality. In 2012 the about criminal justice reform. Jaramillo said. are not given any proof that doing so will make them “matter” President Trump got it done.” former deputy head of to society like people who’ve never been locked up. Laura McCarthy, New Mexico’s state forester who helps run the Khabarovsk regional prison program, said that it began some 21 years as a way to help service took his own life while Families on holidays matter. Farmers and firefighters matter. Mr Trump will run for prisoners develop skills to transition back into society. “We’re facing accusations of Koalas, cattle and zoo animals matter. But those men locked up re-election in November very proud of these men for not only developing the skill set, corruption. His predecessor weren’t worth the risk of evacuating. Could there be any clearer - but due to her criminal but the mindset that they both want to be running a business had killed himself six months message that those behind bars don’t really matter than the record, Johnson will not be and want to be employing other former prisoners.” ABC News earlier, facing fraud charges. decision to leave them locked up in the path of a fire?” allowed to vote.

Funding cuts have undermined the prison system for years making it more dangerous, less tolerant and poorly equipped. We have specialist solicitors who may be able to help you with:

Assaults by police or prison Care in the community after o cers release Excessive use of force Serious injuries, long-term Your Prison Injury Specialists High-risk/unlawful restraint health conditions and methods terminal illness Unauthorised use of hand Discrimination based on cus/chains disabilities, gender, religion, Medical Negligence Restraint of ill and disabled ethnicity etc. prisoners Lack of employment and Frequently missed hospital training opportunities appointments Denial of risk reduction Care needs assessments and courses to foreign nationals Accident Claims plans Access to housing upon Assessments of carers release Reasonable adjustments Access to education, both Lack of mobility equipment whilst in prison and in the Assault Claims Risk assessment of carers community

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Good prison news St Patrick’s Day celebra- Newsbites tion in HMP Berwyn Royal approval for prisoners Children would have found it easier! Liverpool-based charity Irish Community A Mothers’ Union group has once again been successful in applying for a grant to provide new toys for the family and Care (ICC) in conjunction with HMP Berwyn’s visitors area at Haverigg Prison. Carlisle Diocese Mothers’ Union Equalities team are hosting an afternoon of made the application for £500 to The Entertainer Shop. The song on St Patrick’s Day to celebrate the day toys were donated to the group by the store in Carlisle city with Irish/Gypsy, Traveller, Roma and centre. The group had a lot of fun choosing the toys, under prisoners of Irish descent among others guidance of Heather Thorn, manager of the visitors’ and invited to celebrate the day. children’s support group at the prison. Daphne Sisson, action and outreach coordinator for the Mothers’ Union, said: “We As well as enjoying the music, courtesy of managed to choose toys up to the value of £499.83. No doubt Finn’s Hotel (Mike Hogan, Greg Quiery and children would not have found this difficult.” Alan Bornat), staff & prisoners will get the chance to meet ICC staff and find out more

Credit: Royal Family Channel Football coaching at Holme House about the highly successful prison outreach Hartlepool United Football Club has teamed up with HMP and post-release support available for those Holme House to give the men there the chance to work with a Camilla visits Downview returning to the Liverpool City Region and professional coach. Graeme Clark, the team’s under 16 coach, is Merseyside. working with the club’s Sports Foundation coach, Chris Burton, Women prisoners had a chance to chat to the Duchess of Cornwall as she to deliver a two-week, FA Level 1 in football coaching, course toured Downview. Camilla visited training workshops, the prison library, and ICC’s prison outreach Opening Doors project for 16 prisoners. Two more courses are planned which could the charity-run Clinks restaurant as she was shown around by governor see a total of 48 men become fully qualified coaches. Gary Natasha Wilson on Feb 6. At the Max Spielmann Academy, where prisoners works closely with probation in the Republic Martin, physical education officer at HMP Holme House, said: learn photo printing techniques, one of the workers, Marsida, 29, told the of Ireland and the UK, the Irish Council for “This nationally recognised qualification will provide the men Duchess: ‘We all love it here, you learn a lot. We all learn our different skills, Prisoners Overseas and the Irish Embassy, with the necessary skills and confidence to support their we progress and when we get out we have a job to go to as well. It’s amazing.” offering advice on returning to Ireland while Camilla was given her own mug, and told prisoners: “I’ll enjoy every moment on UK licence conditions, maintaining family rehabilitation pathway.” of it. You have done it beautifully.” In the Making for Change textiles work- ties and resettlement support. shop the royal visitor spoke to women working at sewing machines. In the Rapping in Nottingham Benje Howard, also known as Kingdom Rapper, is working with library she met members of a reading group and spoke with organisers of the Thanks to the European-funded Directions Nottingham prisoners to help turn their lives around before Penned Up literacy festival. programme, ICC have recently hired two new release. He says he spent much of his childhood with the wrong staff to help unemployed Irish and Gypsy, people and became involved with gangs at a young age. He says, Traveller & Roma people living in the Recycling prisoners lowers reoffending at one stage, he even had a gun pointed at his head. Benje has Liverpool City Region (Liverpool, Wirral, now put that behind him and is concentrating on his music and Waste management company Recycling Lives says its prison based HMP Sefton, St Helen’s, Knowsley & Halton), also works with a charity called Switch Up which tries to divert Academies recycled more than 1.3 million items of waste electrical and including those who have experience of children from crime through boxing and music. He is currently electronic equipment last year. criminal justice settings, to improve their working with 16 prisoners and hopes to record an album with them. reading, writing and jobs skills. Since the The company says its scheme reduced reoffending rates amongst the prison- 1960s, ICC has worked tirelessly on behalf of More funding for prison charity ers involved to less than five per cent - It says that of 96 men and women the Irish/Irish Traveller community in the released from the HMP Academies in 2017/18, 96% did not reoffend and 84% A Christian children’s charity has received funding to continue North West and beyond to improve health moved straight into work. its work in prisons improving family relationships and break the and wellbeing outcomes, tackle issues of crime cycle. Invisible Walls, run by Spurgeons Children’s Charity, Alasdair Jackson, chief executive of the social enterprise, said: “Using inequality and discrimination, and to has helped fathers improve their parenting skills and maintain recycling we’re able to really change lives. The men and women in our HMP improve access to services through culturally healthy relationships with their children whilst in prison and Academies are undertaking important work, ensuring millions of waste items sensitive support. after they’re released. The programme has been awarded more are fully recycled. But more importantly, they’re ensuring they’re properlyLest we forget… than £450,000 by The National Lottery Community Fund to equipped to leave prison and never reoffend.” See invite page 28: Happy St Patrick’s day! continue its work over the next three years.

L A W Y E R S W H O Expert Legal Advice When You Need It Most H E L P M I G R A N T S I N Specialists in Crime, Prison law, Criminal T H E P R I S O N Appeals, and Claims against the Police, S Y S T E M Prisons or Local Authorities as well as Housing, Family and Mental Health advice POCA WESTKIN ASSOCIATES CONTACT US NOW Solicitor, Lauren Bowkett, and her specialist WE ARE IMMIGRATION SPECIALISTS AND ASSIST CLIENTS AND THEIR 020 8299 6000 team are here to help you: FAMILIES IMMIGRATION BAIL • Challenge confiscation orders Central Admin Team UNLAWFUL DETENTION 158-162 London Road • Reduce confiscation orders DEPORTATION APPEALS JUDICIAL REVIEWS Croydon, CR0 2TD • Defend enforcement COMPENSATION proceedings 24 HR SERVICE [email protected] • International asset recovery LAWYERS - VISITING YOU AND WORKING WITH YOUR FAMILY • POCA conveyancing GET IN TOUCH US WITH YOUR FAMILIES CONTACT DETAILS ON THE OUTSIDE Address: , Cohen Cramer Suite 1B, Hanover Walk, 0 2 0 7 1 1 8 4 5 4 6 Leeds LS3 1AB I N F O @ W E S T K I N . C O M Call: 1 M A D D O X S T R E E T 0113 224 7807 M A Y F A I R , L O N D O N ASHFORD BIRMINGHAM CROYDON DARTFORD Email: W 1 S 2 P Z LEEDS LONDON MANCHESTER PETERBOROUGH [email protected] C A L L T O D A Y Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Newsround // Local Prison News 17

“Not another day in there…” Coronavirus scare IMB watch Newsbites

A major scare erupted at HMP Bullingdon Murder probe at Belmarsh! last month after a prisoner had transferred in New Hall A murder probe has been launched at Belmarsh after a from a prison in Thailand collapsed and was In its latest report the IMB prisoner who was seriously assaulted on Tuesday 18th transferred to hospital to be tested for the highlight problems for February, suffering serious head wounds, died in hospital the coronavirus. Although there were only 33 women with mental next day. Two men, who are prisoners there, were arrested on confirmed cases in Thailand, and none in his health issues. They have suspicion of attempted murder and remanded into custody. It prison, the Bullingdon management decided called on the Prison is understood that the incident does not relate to any terrorist to keep all prisoners isolated in their cells © Deposit Photos activity. with only restricted access to wings until the Service to address the Sick notes at Grampian all-clear was given. Staff delivered a letter to current delays for each cell telling the men that they would be prisoners being trans- Pimlico Opera return to Bronzefield Shocking figures that show staff at Grampian confined for 72 hours, meals would be ferred to more appropri- The sound of opera will be heard emanating from Bronzefield took around 2,500 days off sick in just seven delivered to their cells. ate accommodation. from 7th to 15th March as Pimlico Opera return behind bars to months have prompted calls from a member However, the IMB praise stage Hairspray, with a cast of prisoners, supported by six of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), shadow the staff in Holly House, professionals and a full orchestra. There is a limited availability justice secretary Liam Kerr, to call for which houses women of tickets. More information: https://tinyurl.com/s4yktk8 measures to support prison staff and ease with the most ‘complex pressures. He said: “Prison staff aren’t and challenging mental Record pay-out at Lewes getting the support they deserve and because health issues’, and who Between 2018 and 2019 Lewes paid out £738,624 in legal costs of this, many are having to take time off have no medical training, following assaults on staff, that is £600,000 more than the year because the situation they are faced with on for their “compassion and before. In response to the latest figures Mick Pimblett, of the a daily basis at work is simply unbearable. care for those in their Prison Officers’ Association (POA)said: “Despite Government “Worst place for an outbreak” Since opening, the staffing issues at HMP charge”. claims that they are reducing violence, these figures prove that Grampian are continuing to be ignored and, they are failing to protect their staff and our members from six years on, we have dozens of vacancies A ‘prison insider’ told The Sun: “The jail’s Dartmoor increased violence in the workplace. The soundbite that they and thousands of sick days being taken.” been in panic mode since the first person collapsed. Several hundred prisoners on The new report repeats a are recruiting extra staff is beginning to wear thin.” The Argos C-wing are in lockdown and unable to leave problem previously A Scottish Prison Service (SPS) spokesperson Governor leaves after turning Liverpool around said: “We recognise the continuing challeng- their cells. A prison is just about the worst highlighted. They say: The governor credited with turning around Liverpool prison es of the recruitment and retention of staff at place for any outbreak because everyone is in “The Board has noted the has left after two years in the job. Pia Sinha was appointed in HMP Grampian and we continue to support such close quarters.” continuing difficulty in November 2017 when the jail was in crisis, after inspectors had the establishment with staff from elsewhere transferring prisoners to Whilst there is no ‘cure’ for the virus, and a branded it one of the worst they had ever seen. A follow-up in the estate who are working at Grampian on resettlement prisons due vaccine won’t be ready for 18 months, report in January found that the prison had been transformed detached duty … The Scottish Prison Service to the shortage of places medical advice is that it is unlikely to be - and credited “the quality of leadership” for the improvement. provides a range of measures and interven- in them. As a category C fatal, the flu-like symptoms can be relieved Sinha has reportedly moved to a new probation role in HM tions for staff who require them, including training prison Dartmoor with painkillers such as paracetamol. Prison and Probation Service. Critics warned that the jail’s occupational health support and access to is not able to offer specific improvement risked being undone by moving its successful counselling services. It is to the great credit of An official from Thailand’s Department of courses which may be governor. The Prison Governors’ Association said: “There has staff who work in our prisons that they perform Corrections said the prisoner was tested crucial to a prisoner’s been comment on the length governors are in post. We know well, and that good order is maintained.” before leaving the country and he was well. resettlement plan. This that generally the longer the tenure the better the performance risk has been pointed out of the prison. That said, burn out is a reality for governors in in previous annual some of our most challenging prisons. Health and wellbeing reports. The prison must be a priority.” estates transformation team has been working Keys lost at Doncaster with Dartmoor through- It was alleged, last month, that a Doncaster prisoner snatched a National Prison Law Solicitors out the year towards the set of keys from a custody officer. Despite a lock-down and www.instalaw.co.uk new configuration of the huge search, which included a search of the prison drains, the prison estate. This aims to keys were not found. Following the incident, security was ensure movement of stepped up and a number of locks changed. The incident We have over 20 Prison Law Experts who can help you with: prisoners between comes just days after an inspection report raised concerns prisons. about overcrowding, violence, drugs and five self-inflicted • Parole Board oral hearings • Breach of Data Protection deaths at the prison. Cardiff • Paper Parole Reviews • False Imprisonment The board has been Banged to rights • Recalls • Independent Adjudications impressed by the A Thameside prisoner, serving an eight-month sentence, was • Judicial Review • Private cases (Transfer/HDC) improvements made to found to have an improvised weapon in his cell the day before - Mandatory Lifers the fabric of the building his release. Admitting the offence in court he landed himself • Personal Injury/Workplace accidents + more and the general improve- with another three years in prison. He was caught by a joint ment in cleanliness of this operation between the Metropolitan Police and the Prison Call us today for free advice on: 01782 560 155 Georgian prison. During Service aimed at reducing violence in prison. Detective Constable the reporting year a Alex Furniss, from the Metropolitan Police Prison Intelligence programme of refurbish- Unit, said: “[He] had just one day left in prison when he was found Nottingham office: Instalaw, 4th Floor Parliament House, ment of wings and cells with a dangerous weapon in his cell. He must now face the 42 - 46 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham, NG1 2AG was undertaken. This consequences of his actions and spend further time behind bars.” included upgrading Staffordshire office: Instalaw, 2nd Floor Copthall House, King Street, furniture, painting cells Prisoner died after taking Spice Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1UE and general areas as well A prisoner died hours after taking Spice at Humber prison, an as a concerted effort to inquest heard. Alan Tyers, 48, fell unconscious during the keep both inside and evening after smoking the drug in an e-cigarette. His cellmate Shortlisted for Law Firm of the Year by the Law Society outside areas clean. There called for help and he appeared to recover, but was found dead has been an improvement in his bed the following morning. Officers told the inquest in Winners of Client Care Initiative of the Year 2019 in access to mental health January that drug use was widespread at the private prison. support services but there Rosemary Baxter, HM Area Coroner, concluded that the death in February 2018 was by “misadventure”. Officers speaking at continued to be a high the inquest praised Tyers for his “hard-working attitude” and incidence of self-harm “good behaviour”, and said they had not been aware he was a although efforts have Spice user. Tyers former cellmate, since released, told the been made to investigate inquest how the pair had gone halves on £5 of Spice that night, the reasons for this. Tyers paying for it with cherry oils and a bag of sugar. 18 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

I was met by Elizabeth who agreed but unfortunately the Finally, non-Council mem- suggested David Mills introduced me to David Mills, alternative sashes had been bers had a chance to have (co-chairman) viewed the cri- co-chairman of the Council made far too small. This fail- their say. Elizabeth Williams teria applied before the next and Jasper Jameson, its secre- ure was a disappointment, advised that both Bricks and Council meeting in tary. Both men are also in- but good humour persisted Plastering or Painting and February. volved in the Erlestoke and when Nick Howard held Decorating Courses would magazine ‘The Manor’, which up an orange sash he was in- start as soon as they had se- By now, after two very busy is an extremely well-pro- vited to try it on. He regret- cured tutors. The Carpentry hours, it was time to stop. As duced and informative publi- fully declined amid friendly Course was already very suc- I said my farewells, I compli- cation. As we walked to the laughter. cessful. I asked for informa- mented Governor Nick How- meeting, they explained that tion about the prison library ard on the tone of the meeting. the Council includes a Gover- which provoked positive com- There was an Although there was disagree- nor co-chairman, Nick How- ments from everybody - the ment and cases where lack of ard, and an officer obvious respect for library was accessible on a money or other reasons made representative, Dave Tucker, regular basis and there was the other’s opin- future agreement unlikely, as well as reps from the nine the chance to order in books house-blocks and various ions and a wish to from the Wiltshire County nevertheless there was an ob- vious respect for the other’s other interested parties, on explain a differing Council Library. Good news this occasion, for example, a indeed! Visiting Deputy Gov- opinions and a wish to ex- representative from PACT and point of view. ernor Chris Simpson raised plain a differing point of view. also Guy Blackstone from the contentious subject of As Howard said to me, ‘in this Group Reducing Re-offending ‘pink forms’, which allow room we’re all equal’. No won- South Central Prisons. More contentious was the prisoners to visit sick or de- der it felt like an exceptional subject of the new gym time- ceased relatives, and prison experience. The room soon filled up, with table, which was not working the addition of several other out owing to the instigation of officers and Deputy Governor Rolling Roll-Checks. Deputy Chris Simpson. As we settled Governor Chris Simpson re- down the atmosphere was plied that these checks had friendly but formal, with Jas- been causing so many prob- per taking the minutes and lems that we are working on the two chairmen both ad- processes to bring them in dressing an agenda of general causing as little disruption to problems before giving a the regime as possible. chance for house block reps Speaking up to air any problems. The subject that followed con- cerned the revised Incentives The first topic tackled the Policy Framework (IPF) which Sitting in with the Prisoners’ Clean and Decent Initiative, went live in January and has with the news that there are caused a lot of problems, not Council. “In this room we’re now four officers trained to least because 148 men re- © Andy Aitchison deliver a better result, with ceived warnings that they all equal” (Governor) new furniture, new cleaning were at risk of regression from World Book Day equipment and new curtains their present IEP level. David Month by Month being installed. This was fol- Bell explained that some men Anyone who has read this page more than once will know lowed by a discussion about had been confused and how often I bang on about books. It’s not chance that my a focus group proposed at the scared and suggested it might question at the Erlestoke Council concerned their library previous meeting to consider be better to deliver this sort of and access to it - nor is it because I’m a writer myself with the invitation to sit in on HMP Family Days. The E-mail a information through many published books. But over many decades now I have Erlestoke’s newly re-consti- Prisoner Reply Service was key-workers who could ex- seen the power of books to change lives. Books open the tuted Council. My invitation Rachel Billington the next topic, with partially plain the changes further. doors to a world outside your own place in it, whether it’s came from the Education De- good news that the equip- Governor Howard admitted in a prison or a palace. partment via Elizabeth Wil- ment was on site, but waiting that it was a ‘massive piece of It is almost a cliché to say that liams. The prison is Cat C an installation date from IT. work’ and that … ‘We won’t There are wonderful organisations like ‘Give a Book’ and prisons can’t run efficiently with around 500 men primar- get everything right first time.’ ‘Prison Readers Group’ who do a huge amount to bring without cooperation between ily serving 4 years or more. The next item concerned the books to prison and, indeed, prisoners to books. Best of all inmates and staff. In a situa- The separated modern build- men’s objection to wearing a This provoked the longest dis- is when reading is learnt young. The classic picture of a tion where staff will always ings cluster in green Wilt- bib at visits. Change had been cussion, including the gener- child being read to by his/her mother or father tells a story be vastly outnumbered by shire fields and hills. ally shared regret of the lack of parental connection, love, and a commitment to the prisoners, the breakdown of of ROTL. There was an im- child’s future. All this can be achieved with a book, so I was prison order is inevitable pressive amount of listening really glad to hear about the initiative run by World Book where trust is lost. on all sides. Somewhere Day on March 5th. They will celebrate the event by distrib- around here Guy Blackstone uting 24,000 free £1 books to every single prison in the UK With this in mind, most pris- left. In a short farewell he pro- - including Northern Ireland. ons have a Council where in- fessed his admiration of the mate representatives can Council and said he would David Kendall, who probably knows more about getting raise problems, be listened to use his afternoon’s experi- books into prisons than anyone in the world, comments, by staff and, hopefully, work- ence to help improve and “We have a lot of prisons; 120 just in England and Wales. ing together, solve them. Of shape other Councils in other We have a lot of people in prison - over 82,000 at any one course that is the ideal out- prisons. This was a welcome time. A large percentage of these will be parents. There are come. But there are pitfalls. boost for everybody. no official figures for the number of children with a parent Representatives may be seen in prison but Barnardo’s says 300,000, with around 10,000 by their peers to be arguing The meeting then moved to visits by children to prisons each week. These are the chil- the case of ‘the enemy’. Staff points made by individual dren that World Book Day wants to reach”. may see the Council as merely representatives of the house- a talking shop with no inten- blocks. Subjects tackled This is the fourth year that World Book Day has handed out tion of taking remedial ranged from broken gym books, with a steadily increasing amount on offer. Reading action. equipment to a planned re- through the reactions from previous years, I thought this configuration of the health- comment explained so much about how such a scheme can Nevertheless, I have always care department and a help both adults and children, ‘The books have made family believed that communication question about the two visit day so memorable and happy. I love the fact I can keep is the first step to change and evening sessions of associa- in touch with my son now by catching up on the books he’s improvement. With this in tions which had been cut reading’. mind, I accepted with alacrity from an original four. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 19

Instaboom. I had actually been introduced to I had a really unpleasant time in prison and the job by somebody at an AA meeting. I feel felt miserable for most of my sentence. I started extremely comfortable in my role and every- to worry that everybody would hate me when body knows my story. I was released; my mental health deteriorated massively and I began self-harming. About six I have also been able to return to my passion months into it, however, came a turning point for football. The governor and officers at HMP for me. I didn’t trust anybody around me in East Sutton Park allowed me to train with prison, and even though there were plenty of Maidstone United Ladies whilst I was serving opportunities to get alcohol, I decided to stay my sentence. At the time, I was insecure and away and go cold turkey. Making that decision worried about telling the players about my was a life-changer. past. Fast forward to today, and I’m captain of the team! I also finally mustered up the cour- I was initially introduced to The Forward Trust age to tell the team my story, which was re- in prison, but I was reluctant to engage with ceived with acceptance and open minds. them because I was convinced that I didn’t Becoming a football team captain is a dream have a problem. Around the same time, my I’ve had since I was a little girl, and to finally mother got in touch after she found out that I be able to reach it is priceless. had been imprisoned - she wanted answers. Aiming for a goal in life that’s good Despite the experiences I have gone through, © Deposit Photos After spending a few weeks in a different today I can say that I am proud of myself. I prison, I came back to the one I was originally have a great relationship with my mother, I based in and somehow, my whole perspective have a job, a place to call home and I am living Beating the booze shifted. I came back a completely different my passion of being a footballer. person. I think that came from the moment I decided to be honest with myself and open up If you are going through what I experienced, More than my Past ambassador shares her more. I’d encourage you to reach out and seek help as early as possible. I am extremely grateful journey from bottom back to the top I started to engage with Forward’s Alcohol for the support I was given by the prison of- Awareness workshop and AA classes. I learnt ficers, my family and The Forward Trust. I a lot from the workshops and started to come spent so much time resisting support, when in Nikki about football and was eager to begin my ca- fact it was everything I needed to be able to reer in it. A couple of months into the scholar- to terms with the anxiety and resentment I had buried inside me. build myself up to where I am today. There is ship, I started going out every night with the no way that I would ever want to go back to I was born in Gravesend and raised in Dart- others on the course. This led to excessive prison, because I know that the loss of my ford, Kent. I had a pleasant childhood. Grow- After being released from prison I have rebuilt drinking and messy hangovers, which deeply family and the life I have built would be too ing up, life was smooth and my older brother my life. All of those fears I had while I was in affected my performance on the scholarship. much to lose. Looking at life through sober and I were spoilt. After missing countless classes, I was kicked prison were self-limiting - I just didn’t realise my potential. Looking at my life today - it’s eyes is one of the most joyful things that I have off the scholarship and sent home. ever experienced - and I never want to give it When I was five years-old, my parents split up. crazy, but in a really positive way! up. I still don’t know the real reason but I remem- My mum was extremely disappointed and sent ber them arguing most of the time. My mum I now have a full-time job working in construc- me to go and live with my dad. What made it For further ‘More than my Past’ success stories moved out after the split, and I would yo-yo tion within the Production Team for SOSEC worse was that she had dedicated a large sum see morethanmypast.org.uk between them, spending time with each of money from my granddad’s inheritance to throughout the years. Deep down, I just fund the parts of my course not covered by the wanted to ‘fix’ them and make everything okay scholarship - and all I did was throw it all again. But I knew I had to accept that it just away. The feelings of guilt and hurt really wasn’t going to happen. started to sink in, but I didn’t yet realise I had a drink problem. I began to cope with the changes, but some- thing happened that really affected me deeply My erratic behaviour soon caused me to lose - my granddad was diagnosed with cancer. I Shaw and Co my job, so I moved back in with mum. I was Specialist Accident Compensation Solicitors was 13, and I remember completely breaking unemployed, but I still needed to drink. I down over the news. My granddad was my best started taking loads of payday loans to fund OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS friend and my rock. I just couldn’t imagine life my drinking habit, which led to bailiffs turn- without him. ing up at my door numerous times. My mum had to foot those bills and she eventually At one point, the cancer went away, but it soon kicked me out again. Dental Treatment came back. During this time, my mother and I would spend a lot of time visiting granddad I moved back in with my dad, and got into a Medical Care at the hospital. About three years into his bat- physically and mentally abusive relationship tle, my granddad became extremely ill and it with somebody around the same time. Looking General Accident Claims was clear that he didn’t have much longer left. back, I can see that it made my drinking worse, I wrote him a three-page letter, telling him how which led me to lose another job I had just Call Chris or Sharon about your claim on: much I loved him and took it to the hospital to started. I became so desperate for a job that I read to him. I started choking-up five lines in, started to tell lies on my CV so I could secure and had to stop - I was so overcome by emo- employment - only to be sure that I could buy tion. I told him I loved him and left the hospi- more drinks. FREEPHONEOr you can 0800email us at: 389 1590 tal. Two hours later my granddad passed away. I got a job in London, where I got involved with After my granddad’s funeral, we had a wake the wrong crowd of people who enabled me to [email protected] at his home. That was when I tried a little bit drink more and more. I’d stay out drinking for of whiskey. I didn’t necessarily enjoy it, but I hours, sleeping in the office overnight until Shaw and Co Solicitors Ltd saw everyone around me getting drunk, so I the next morning rolled around again. One Three Indian Kings House did it too. evening, I was so drunk that I attempted to 31 The Quayside jump off of London Bridge. Police were called, Newcastle upon Tyne I started to drink more regularly. While I didn’t I was sectioned for 48 hours and taken to see NE1 3DE enjoy waking up with a headache, some of my a psychologist - but I wasn’t really interested issues magically went away whenever I had in what they had to say. All calls are confidential. alcohol, including the difficult feelings I was Your claim will be represented on a No Win No Fee basis. coping with after granddad’s death. One day, I made the fateful decision to steal from a former employer. I was released on in- At 17, I got a football scholarship to America. I vestigation and a year later sentenced to 16 NO WIN NO FEE was so excited, as I am extremely passionate months in custody. 20 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

Approved Premises in the north-west It soon emerges that the instructions The winner is the person with the of England, basing Probationary on are mostly quite bleak. In Monopoly most points once everyone has their experiences and feelings. you might get ‘You have won second reached the end of the board. Mod- prize in a beauty contest, collect esty doesn’t prevent me from telling The project was backed by the How- £10’. In Probationary you’re more you that that person was me. Proba- ard League for Penal Reform, not as likely to be penalised for breaking bly beginner’s luck, in particular ‘art for art’s sake’ but to try to change some rule or other - or even when landing on the ‘Family Reconnects’ attitudes. The hope was that if people you’ve done nothing wrong. square that gave me a whopping five in charge of the probation system relationship tokens. could get a taste of how it felt to be on Every so often - in my case every licence, they might have a bit more third turn, but it varies - you don’t So what is Probationary like to play? empathy with those going through it. roll the dice. Instead you announce Well, it works as a game, but there ‘Checking in’. Do so, and you earn a are drawbacks. The complex rules So since the game’s launch in 2018 it token. Fail to check in, or check in make it all a bit baffling at first. This has been played by officials from the when you’re not scheduled to, and is deliberate - Hwa wanted to repli- Ministry of Justice and the Prisons you get penalised. This is to replicate cate the feeling of confusion that and Probation Ombudsman’s office, the number one duty of anyone on people on licence feel, placed under by leading magistrates and probation licence, to turn up for probation an overwhelming set of conditions. hostel staff, as well as by visitors to appointments. The cards and squares are often neg- art galleries and games festivals. ative in tone for the same reason. There are plans for it to be used to And the outcome is mostly chance - teach trainee probation officers. because the men Hwa consulted felt that their success or failure on li- And now it’s my turn. I settle down cence was in large part down to luck. Ben Leapman, artist Hwa Young Jung and Robert Preece to play with officials from the How- of the Howard League play Probationary ard League and a couple of visitors None of this makes Probationary a from the drug and alcohol charity fun family favourite you’d play over Addaction. We are joined by Hwa and over again. But if the purpose is herself. to show people in power that it’s I pick Steve, a lifer tough being on licence, by getting Probationary… The game is played by up to four play- who has been released them to play a board game that’s ers, plus an extra person to be The tough to play, then this does the job Eye - an overseer a bit like the banker to live at an Approved beautifully. Literally beautifully, as a board game with a difference in Monopoly. Hwa takes on this role. Premises … so I have a the board, tokens and even the box Each player starts by drawing a char- are all finely crafted. supervision. Think Snakes and Lad- acter card. This is done at random head start over Jonny; ders without the reptiles, or Monop- because, Hwa tells me, “You don’t get What did my fellow players make of oly without the chance to build who is homeless but I’m Ben Leapman to choose the hand you’re dealt in it? Iain Forward, manager of Addac- hotels. Like any board game it comes life.” I pick Steve, a lifer who has been already behind tion at Feltham, said: “I think it rep- with instructions, which in this case released to live at an Approved resents how difficult it is for inmates are rather complicated … more of Premises. Mohammed, who is in leaving prison to remember so much I’m having a bad day. First I get a which later. his own home. stuff. They have no control over who warning letter for breaking my cur- Here’s the first big difference from their offender manager is, but it con- few. Then I feel depressed because But first, you might be thinking that Monopoly, where everyone starts to- I mentioned tokens. As we go around tributes so much to the outcome.” everyone else is drinking and I can’t you’ve never seen Probationary in gether on Go. In Probationary, each the board, we collect three kinds of join them. It’s not much fun being any toy shop. And you’d be right. It’s character takes a different route, so I tokens. In a nice touch these are lit- His colleague Kim Denton added: “It an ex-prisoner living life on a li- a limited edition - there are only four have a head start over Jonny; who is tle pieces, a bit like green plastic was a bit of an emotional roll- cence. Better than being back in sets in existence, so I’m one of the homeless but I’m already behind Mo- Monopoly houses but in different er-coaster. One moment things are prison, but sometimes only just. lucky few who have been able to hammed, who is in his own home. shapes and colours: yellow encircled being given to you, in the next breath Then to cap it all, I’m told my decent play it. arms are emotions worth one point; they’re being taken away.” probation officer is moving areas Hwa, guiding us in her role as The green building blocks are skills and I’m going to be assigned a new Probationary was created in an un- Eye, keeps calling me Steve. She is worth three points; and red clouds What about the mission to influence one, who may or may not be sympa- usual collaboration for two rather trying to get me into character, but it are relationships worth five points. people in authority? Anita Dockley, thetic. That means I have to miss my different purposes. Firstly, it is a adds to my confusion as I’ve only just research director at the Howard next dice roll. work of art. Its creator, Hwa Young met her and I keep thinking she has I say we collect them, but often as League, said: “When we played it Jung, is a Manchester-based artist forgotten my name. not they’re being confiscated. The with a group at the Ministry of Jus- Woah, hold on. Dice roll? who specialises in games. Her other loudest protest comes from one of my tice, one said ‘I realise now that we’re projects have included a role-play- We take turns rolling the dice and competitors when she draws a card constructing a system that works for Ok, this (thankfully) isn’t real life. I ing game about life in Liverpool moving our pieces. Some of the saying she has been recalled to us but not for the men who are meant am playing ‘Probationary’, a board called ‘Scouse Island’ and a Top squares have instructions on them, prison - back to square one, lose all to get something out of it.’” game based on the experiences of Trumps-style card game based on plus every turn we each pick up an your tokens - simply because her men who have just left prison and civil rights campaigners. She ‘emotional card’ and have to do what novice probation officer didn’t know So with that kind of reaction, the are living under probation worked with former prisoners at an it says. the rules. game is serving a serious purpose.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS GRAHAM & CO POLISH SPEAKING AA HELP LINE CRIMINAL SOLICITORS MASZ PROBLEM Z PRISON LAW Adjudications PICIEM? Home Detention Curfew Oral Hearings NATIONWIDE PRISON COVERAGE ANONIMOWI ALKOHOLICY CRIMINAL DEFENCE Recall Our head o ce is based in the North West of England but we provide nationwide Confiscation coverage and due to the location of our sta we oer regular and consistent coverage MOGĄ CI POMÓC Crown Court Representation zadzwoń lub napisz Fraud to the North West, Midlands, London, South West and North East England. Assault/ Drug Cases APPEALS • Parole paper reviews and oral hearings • Recall reviews and oral hearings 020 3916 00 97 INCLUDING SOPO VARIATIONS AND DISCHARGES CCRC Applications • Removal from open conditions • Pre-Tari reviews • Category A reviews Poniedzialek - piątek: 19.00 - 21.00 POCA Appeals and enforcement. • Adjudications sobota i niedziela: 17.00 - 21.00 FUNDING Legal Aid Available on permitted services Fixed Fees Available For more information please contact Jeremy Pinson using the detials below. e-mail: [email protected] http://aa-pik-wielkabrytania.org.pl/ CONTACTUS 01227 918436 Freepost HOWARDS AND HENRYS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS [email protected] POLISH SPEAKING AA HELP LINE GRAHAM & CO, 67 HIGH STREET, HERNE BAY CT6 5LQ 0161 872 9999 - [email protected] - howardssolicitors.co.uk Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 21

off, seduced by the money front and side doors, like he’d Jason shrugged: ‘I’ll find out Looking Up and excitement. been told. A drizzle began to soon enough. Don’t worry fall yet again, Blacky pulling about him.’ The ups, downs, challenges and triumphs of a prison leaver’s journey He paced to and fro, avoiding up his hood and retreating, ‘I could call Kevin if you need puddles, wishing he’d never mission complete. help.’ left home, the promise of Jason gritted his teeth. ‘Leave richer, younger women fall- ‘What’s up, Jay?’ it to me.’ ing flat as a barm cake on the ‘Nowt.’ Sue shrugged sadly and grey pavements of Northern ‘You keep looking over your turned away as the 439 disap- Britain. His new place, cold, shoulder.’ peared, Jason scowling dull and damp, and no ‘It’s nowt, Sue. Carry on down darkly as the bus headed beaches for miles, was less town, I’ll meet you at Asda away. The hunter had just be- than welcome, and nothing later.’ come the hunted. like what he’d seen in the You- ‘Jay? Jay!’ Tube videos of Blackpool Impatiently, Mo snatched nightclubs. He left her at the bus stop, Blacky’s phone from him as darting back between parked he stepped into the shared He checked his face in his cars, heart pounding, till he house, Blacky’s trainers phone; nose running, lips caught sight of his watcher, squelching on the cracked chapped, eyes bloodshot, heading away from his street. lino. shaking his head sadly before Not the police then, no black ‘This him? You sure?’ noticing movement behind people in the Force round ‘He came out of that house.’ him as the door of the house here. For days, Jason had ‘Who’s the woman?’ he’d been watching opened. sensed he was being watched, Blacky shrugged. A man and a woman came followed, his prison instincts ‘OK Blacky. I might need you out, bustling with shopping still sharp as a razor, biding again, understand?’ Mo gave bags. He turned the camera his time till his tail got com- him a twenty pound note. towards them, half hiding in placent. The black guy was so ‘You can go now.’ © MW a scratchy hedge, the couple obvious Jason had first dis- Frank Cotton making almost no difference Blacky spluttered for a reply smiling obliviously as they missed him, seeing him twice Blacky bit his tongue with to the chill. Six months since as Mo hung up. Beko, more passed on the other side of the outside Fabkebabs, dressed resentment, anger swelling in his irregular arrival from handsome than him! Blacky street, their accents so strong in a heavy coat and scarf in his throat. Mo was barely a Somebody’s Ghana, and he still wasn’t fumed. In Ghana, he’d spent he couldn’t grasp a word. warm weather, as incongru- kid, cocky, pushy, the sort of Watching Me used to the penetrating cold. two years fleecing mid- ous as an orchid in a bed of man Blacky hated more than His mobile phone buzzed, Mo dle-aged European women at ‘Eh oop, ahll fetha garn toon, dandelions. Jason kept his anything. Mo swaggered to impatient for another a beach bar, his striking good His father named him Gift lahk, sithee nah, aye, ah will, distance, his target sitting at his second-hand BMW as update. looks and perfect English an nobbut mekkin foos, mickle a a bus stop till the 439 came Blacky peeled off his wet from God, but he now called irresistible combination. The himself Blacky. He liked the muckle…’ through, pulling his hood clothes, longing for warmth ‘Have you seen him yet, women kidded themselves And they were supposed to be down briefly as he got on the of any kind. He still didn’t flicker of disbelief in people’s Blacky?’ they were looking for more eyes when he told them, not the English speakers… Blacky bus and headed north. Jason know what Mo was up to, but ‘No. And stop ringing me. I than sex - one Austrian haus- shook his head in disappoint- knew the route, heading for guessed there was money in- sure if he was lying, but not look suspicious enough as it frau even offering marriage wanting to challenge him for ment. He’d been told that Roundhay’s modern slums. volved somewhere. He is. You should have sent Beko, so she could carry him home being well-spoken was better wrapped himself in a beach fear of being called racist. he’d fit in better round here. I like a trophy, until her fat red- Blacky. It was a private joke than any passport, and had ‘Who the hell’s he then, Jay?’ towel, wondering how much haven’t seen another black faced son turned up with the honed both his English and Jason spun. ‘Christ Sue, you there might be… and how where he got to laugh at person for an hour.’ police, shouting German ob- nearly everyone he met. French to near perfection. nearly gave me a heart much he could get for ‘Beko’s too handsome. People scenities. His father beat him When the couple turned the attack!’ himself… remember him wherever he when he found out what his He stood shivering at the corner, he crept back up the ‘Some private eye you’d make, goes.’ beloved Gift from God was street, crossing over to the you never looked back once. street corner, his Marks and doing, but Blacky shrugged it Frank Cotton is a former resi- Spencer’s thermal underwear house, photographing the Who’s he?’ dent of HMPPS

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this a new job?). I took the I was not ‘banned’ until the I was told to ‘give it time’ but Outside Voices letter to the local Job Centre who end of October. things are getting worse. I am could not understand why it trying to build bridges, but I had been sent but could help So now I have to travel to Lan- keep getting knock-backs. I me no further. A police officer caster Job Centre where I am lost my home, unnecessarily; (the same one who filled the met at the door by security I have moved to an appalling application form for me) took staff, escorted to the ‘screened flat. I spent Christmas alone the letter to the Job Centre the area’, then, after my inter- and New Year’s Day alone. Is following day whereby staff view, I am escorted from the this my future? told him that I have never screened area and out of the been anything but respectful building. I am not allowed to I didn’t want it on Christmas and well-mannered every go into the public areas and Eve, I had had enough, I time I visited. members of the public are not wanted to leave this Earth; allowed anywhere near me. the same last night, but I am Then I received a call from my Each time I come home I cry. still here, getting a bit tougher new ‘work coach’ at Lancas- every day. I can’t even get a ter. I told her about the letter I did super-glue myself to a voluntary job. Even the Salva- and she told me she would chair at the local Job Centre tion Army won’t accept me. investigate it. Two hours later (cheap super-glue). They said her manager phoned me. She they would call the police if I Before I went to prison I was had been in touch with my didn’t leave. I must admit that a Samaritan at our local branch. local Job Centre herself to be the thought of police trying to Now, they have been there for told the same as the police put me in the police van glued me many times, especially at “How long does my punishment last?” officer - I had never been an- to a plastic two-seater cheap night. Before I went to prison,

© Deposit Photos ything other than respectful Job Centre sofa did make me I fell asleep as soon as my and well-mannered and there laugh out loud! My probation head hit the pillow. Now I can told my first payment would had been absolutely no ‘inci- officer wasn’t quite so amused go two nights without any be paid on 31/7/2019. How- dents’ or ‘unacceptable be- and I was lucky they weren’t sleep - then I just crash and ever, there was a complete haviour’ at any of my going to press charges for sleep for almost 18 hours Still serving balls-up, not my fault, but the appointments. The police of- criminal damage to their sofa. straight. But I feel so ill at times. payment was delayed for ten ficer got to the bottom of it - it My doctor doesn’t ‘do’ sleep- Helen Duct - former prisoner (ex-nurse now) I was in the days. At no time was I ever was because the medical So, how long do I have to be ing pills and I have to spend business of healing not harm- rude, disrespectful, bad man- form included that I had been punished for my crimes? It’s loads on Nytol, Kalms and ing, I would be OK. nered, ignorant, angry or sectioned after being found not a case of I have served my other sleeping tablets. Some- I have realised how foolish I threatening. I just listened to with a pair of scissors and time and it’s over. Long-time one offered me some canna- was to think that after serving The judge had other opinions them explain what was hap- also being found with a small friends who always told me bis cakes - I am tempted but my prison sentence (12/2/19 though. He told me he had to pening and realised it was not kitchen knife. Then they how lovely I am, how kind I have been told it’s a bad move. until 20/6/19), and upon re- make an example and show their fault, and several staff found out the reason for my am, what a good friend I am, turning home, I would just that ‘knife crime’ would not were working flat out to sort prison sentence and deemed seem to have thought I’ve I’m still serving the nine pick up my life from where I be tolerated. He sent me down out the problem. I could have me a ‘serious threat’, which caught leprosy or mad-cow- month sentence, not in prison left off. Oh no - big mistake. for 9-months. been angry about this delay could be understandable ex- disease and are no longer in but through people’s bigoted and its consequences. I was cept that I applied for Univer- contact. Even family mem- attitudes. Will things ever get I received a 9-month prison I spent my first four weeks at given an advance payment sal Credit about 25th June, yet bers are turning their backs. better? sentence for possession of a HMP Styal in Cheshire. I was which I am paying back at £60 bladed article, my first ever on the wing and not one of the per month. sentence, but not first convic- houses. I was put on an ACCT Offi cially tion for ‘bladed article’; I re- within 24-hours of arriving Then, after visiting the Job the LARGEST Centre for four months, with ceived a 3-month suspended and found the place like a Prison Law hell-hole. Then, at very short no problems at all, I had a sentence in November 2018. Practice in notice, I was ‘shipped out’ to ‘work coach’ who was very The sole reason for my offend- the Country ing was due to the traumatic Low Newton, near Durham. nice and put no pressure on The National Prison Law Specialists experiences, as a child, of There I soon felt better, the me to spend the compulsory Trusted by more prisoners in England and rape and abuse. I have never officers were very supportive, 35-hours a week job search threatened anyone and, most the mental health team were and encouraged me to get Wales than any other Solicitors. of the time, the knife, scissors excellent and, as my mental counselling about my child- With Experts across the Country, hood abuse and was genu- or screwdriver is hidden in my health was deteriorating, I we can represent you in ANY PRISON. clothing. A lot of the time I was permitted to return to the inely showing kindness. small wing where the women have been arrested it has re- Write to us today for FREE Expert sulted in a section and a few went when they begin their I then received a letter which advice at the following address: weeks in a mental health unit. sentences before moving to stated that I posed a ‘serious The longest time I have been the main wing. This was an threat’ to staff at the Job Cen- FREEPOST RTAB-BATB-HGAU unusual move but, thank- tre. I was no longer allowed to in a unit is 3-months; only Carringtons Solicitors, ever on a 2+3 move - a ‘Home fully, the governor was a de- attend as it had no ‘screened’ Office Section’. I had been cent, experienced officer and area so therefore a member of Nottingham NG2 2JR www.carringtons-solicitors.co.uk promised counselling but due knew the best course of action staff could not be protected to a 9-month waiting list had to stop my further deteriora- from the threat I posed. There- Members of the Association of Prison Lawyers and Howard League for Penal Reform not received any before I tion. You could never call any fore I now had to travel to the reoffended. prison ‘nice’, but I found it nearest Job Centre that had a Our team of more than 40 Experts are here to help more ‘acceptable’ if that is the screened area, which is Lan- you, with a wealth of experience specialising in all Despite many reassurances correct word. caster, a £6 bus ride away - that I would not be going to they do refund your bus fare areas of Prison and Criminal Law prison - my probation officer, Upon release I had to go to the but only with your next Uni- • Parole Board Reviews & Hearings • Recall to Prison local Job Centre Plus (JCP) to versal Credit payment. The mental health worker, even • Independent Adjudications • Category A Review some of the local police of- claim Universal Credit. I had letter spoke of ‘incidents’ and ficers told me the judge would no idea how to use a computer ‘unacceptable behaviour’; the • Minimum Term Reviews • Re-Categorisation understand about my abused and found the staff member staff ‘speak to us with respect, • Close Supervision Centre Reviews • Sentence Calculation childhood and the fear at there quite sharp and impa- they expect the same in re- • Transfer • HDC “Tagging” times. They said I was never tient; so I walked out after 15 turn’. My behaviour would be • Criminal Defence • Police Interviews aggressive towards anyone; I minutes in tears. The next day monitored closely with each was always polite and re- one of the local police officers visit - they asked for assur- spectful, even when I was in took me back to the Job Centre ances that this kind of ‘inci- For FREE Expert (local rate) the cells. And nothing would (a jacket over his uniform) and dent(s)’ will not happen 08454 750 650 be achieved by sending me to filled in the on-line form; it again. Signed by the ‘Accept- advice call us today prison and, as a nurse took 90 minutes. Then I was able Behaviour Manager’ (is or 0115 986 0983

Carrington Advert 155x130 Oct 2019.indd 1 21/10/2019 16:24 Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 23 Inside Voices Tales of Wisdom

here. “They are, Alison is a surgeon at the local hospital, Have faith, Bruv she plays at number five and her son plays at number one”. Nick Gully - HMP Parkhurst Each one of us is faced with a unique personal challenge and a test of character where we He was certainly thrown to either fold into ourselves and become increas- realise the doctor was female, and at that a surgeon, and A lot of us prisoners find it difficult to imagine ingly isolated, depressed and silently seething when telling his colleague of a bright future for ourselves and to see beyond as we find ourselves dying in slow-motion, or his surprise he continued to the daily drudge of prison life to get a glimpse we fold outwards and become louder, more say: “But I cannot work out of a positive future for ourselves. We might feel angry, selfish and anti-social in a ‘dog-eat-dog’ why they have a child playing helpless and hopeless about the future and kind of way. These are our ugly choices. at number one - he’s only 17. find ourselves feeling a bit bleak when we try Maybe they have put him in to imagine our lives outside of the walls. Alternatively, we can choose a middle way where we live more mindfully to wisely shape knowing whoever they pick will lose to our number one!” It is entirely possible for people who have ex- the way we live in prison to bring about a rad- perienced any amount of time in prison, and ical personal transformation in our approach The match was poised at two faced the challenge of re-entering the wider to life that will serve us now and in our lives after games all and the number one world as a convicted offender, to rise from the prison, whether or not we are guilty in the first players’ game would decide ashes and go on to build a good and positive place. In this way we can use the painful ex- Deceptive looks © Deposit Photos who won the match. Our op- life after release. periences each of us has had to face to change ponents looked at ease as Greg us and bring out the best in us as we let go of Sid Arter had worked until 6:30 as a took to the court and warmed However, if we stand still and do nothing, and the layers of identity and behaviour that we doctor at the local hospital and up. However, their faces leave these prison gates with our fingers have clung to but don’t actually serve us. was playing number 5 and changed as Greg easily dis- crossed and our heads down, then it would be they would come directly from The Badminton patched his opponent and we fair to say that life is probably going to be dif- work. One way or the other, won the match. Over supper ficult for us. If we approach our time here Match after the match we told them wisely we can use this to make something prison will humble us all. Prison Years ago, I played a lot of The first games were under- Greg played for the county and good for ourselves in the future by creating a badminton and one evening I way when our two missing shrinks the ego, even if it has for the England under 19 team good solid plan that helps us to reinvent our- turned up to play an away players arrived - I nodded to and was on a national coach- selves. Malcolm X said; ‘Tomorrow belongs to to grow and burst first. fixture at a club on the out- them as I was refereeing one ing squad of talented players. those who prepare for it today’. skirts of town. As was usual, of the games in play. “Gosh, We have a choice. One way or the other, prison not all the players were there you look too young to be a What of course this reminds It would be true to say that prison is an inher- will humble us all. Prison shrinks the ego, at 7 o’clock; three of our team doctor” I heard the opponents’ us is the importance of not ently negative place, so unless we work against even if it has to grow and burst first. As we were there as I gave two other team captain announce. “I’m judging by looks alone and the this and positively use our time here, then it come through this and take courageous steps players a lift in my car. Four not a doctor, I’m only 17 and risk of making stereotyping is bound to rub off on us and leave us feeling to rise again, we will soon see how being hum- of our opponents were there am still at school” I heard Greg assumptions. Not all doctors the same. Tell three people here that you are bled and weakened has actually made us and we decided to start with reply. When the first game of are men and many women are proud of something positive that you have stronger - the ugliness we once carried and games 2 and 4 as both teams’ three ended on the court surgeons - and age is not the achieved today, and you will see the wave of cared about has been stripped from us and our players were present. As these where I was refereeing the only factor to consider when negativity hit you, even if it is only in subtle true selves have now been revealed to be our players were warming up, the opponents’ captain came over judging a person’s skills or ways at first. Life has become a bit glum. guide in life. We got real and stopped captain of our opponents to me. “I thought you said all abilities. pretending. asked me when our other play- your team were here?” “They Regardless of how we got here, each of us will ers would arrive. I told him are” I replied. “I thought you have woken up in what feels like a ‘dank wood’ Our initial losses become our eventual wins. they were travelling together said one of them is a doctor?” Sid Arter is a teacher and and realised that we weren’t where we are sup- The author Cynthia Occelli explains it like this: and would not be long; one he said and that they were all entertainer posed to be. It is like a very bad dream where ‘For a seed to achieve its greatest expression, we have lost ourselves and lost our way and it must come completely undone. The shell we now suffer a complete loss of status, a cracks, its insides come out and everything crushing loneliness and often overwhelming changes. To someone who doesn’t understand SURVIVORS OF CHILD ABUSE feelings of anger, despair and regret with no growth, it would look like complete obvious way out. However we got here we were destruction’. probably asleep in some way and lost our true selves and our true path. This is not the end, it’s another beginning.

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Your dedicated lawyer will advise on the merits of your claim and support you through the claims process. W hat to do now:- Speak to one of our team in complete confidence: Call: 0800 9555 094 Email us at: [email protected] Write to us at Jordans Solicitors, Abuse department, Neil Jordan House, Wellington Road, Dewsbury, WF13 1HL 24 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 Prison Leadership A journey through the therapy looking glass was as simple as that. Thing using; always having justifi- is, for most people quitting drink cations for how it was ‘going 2019 Perrie Lecture essay winner lays down for a bit may work, but for me, to be different this time’. Often an addict, life got worse sober- telling myself the same old the qualities of a true prison leader ing up - not better. And I things such as - ‘just the once’, couldn’t understand why. I felt ‘nobody will know’, ‘this time Kevin Kennedy-Telford feelings are not necessarily borne out of their completely empty, restless and it will be different’ or ‘I can convictions or imprisonment; these feelings numb. Life was so grey that I handle it’. All of which, deep have their roots in upbringing and life experi- always went back to using. down, I knew were lies. Success in any field will always require a num- ences. It is essential, therefore, that all prison- ber of elements working in synchronisation. ers are afforded the same opportunities and What I didn’t realise was that The difference that years spent An artist, for example, will need a good eye privileges. Equally essential is that all prison- drug addiction wasn’t a prob- in therapy have taught me is for detail, a steady hand and an ability to be ers are given similar penalties and discipline lem for me initially. It was ac- the true nature of my make-up; inspired by what they see and feel: all of these when found to have breached rules. Impartial- tually a solution to a problem what makes me tick, and why attributes, and more, contribute to the finished that I had long before I ever I felt so uncomfortable in my

ity is very difficult to instil in oneself as a © Fotolia.com work. Similarly, successful leadership is de- leader: the default in human nature is to be picked up a substance. And own skin without drink or Nathan Joshua pendent on multiple skills working in conjunc- more favourable to those who we like and, that problem was living and drugs in my blood. I absolutely tion with one another to create the whole. similarly, more eager to punish those of whom coping with life sober. Usually, loved the feeling produced Arguably, these skills are all the more essen- we are less fond, when rules have been broken. Drug Addiction those that suggest quitting do when I used cocaine and drank care, but they don’t really un- alcohol. What I hated is where tial in a prison environment, given the volatil- A prisoner who feels that he has been treated derstand the severity of this that always led me. I would ity in such institutions due to the inherent unjustly will usually carry feelings of resent- Many people who come to pris- illness. Although of course spend all I had and borrow higher instability of prisoners, compared to ment. These feelings, if left unchecked, can on suffer with addiction prob- quitting is essential in order to what I could to buy drugs. that of the general public. lems, a large number of which proliferate and manifest themselves in many treat addiction - unless the un- Then I would steal what I could have experienced trauma dur- ways, from railing against the system to self- derlying causes are addressed, and eventually absolutely tear Although attaining and retaining the required ing their life. What I find re- harm. Impartiality on the part of a prison of- people often go back to it. And my way through the lives of skills for leadership are hugely important, markable is that the courts ficer or governor can help to negate these that, despite countless attempts others until I was locked up. those skills will only be partially effective currently have few options, feelings: a prisoner may not be happy with a to quit personally, has forever should the leader not have the respect of both other than to send many of us certain punishment, or he might be upset at been the part I overlooked. Being in therapy is no doubt to be exposed to a further trau- staff and prisoners. not receiving a particular privilege; he will be tough. And many do struggle matising environment, where less likely to have feelings of injustice, though, After completing many with substance misuse whilst we often remain untreated Respect is not commanded; respect is not a if those same decisions are applied to all of his Monday to Friday drug courses here. Whether it is the odd man until release. Then the whole right; it has to be constructed; it has to be fellow prisoners. in prison, including CBT, who gets illicit substances or fought for; it has to be earned through words cycle of using, crime and even- Relapse Prevention, 5 of the 12 from trading meds, which in- and actions. Respect inspires confidence in a tual punishment begins again. Steps and Smart, the problem evitably happens from time to leader. It garners loyalty. It allows a leader to Respect is not command- was that in the evenings the time. Yet looking at all of the employ metaphorical tools in their box to max- The first time I took a sub- staff went home and the devil experiences of childhood; un- ed; respect is not a right; it has stance that changed how I felt, imum effect. Some may argue that fear can came out to play. It was as derstanding choices and con- I discovered what life was achieve similar outcomes to respect. Indeed, to be constructed; it has to be though there were two worlds sequences that have devastat- about, or so I thought. Just history has shown us that a leader who rules on the same landings. The one ed lives, aids the healing fought for; it has to be earned twelve or thirteen years-old, I and feeds on fear can yield efficiency, disci- for the cameras and the one process. Despite all the chaos never really felt comfortable pline and ultra-compliance. History has also through words and actions. that was sinister and suppos- and sometimes baffling behav- in my own skin, like most teen- edly out of sight - built on lies iour all around, the clouds do shown us, however, that an iron fist in UK agers I guess. And then sud- prisons has failed many times, leading to and denial. I once mentored clear and calm, somehow, can A good leader also needs to have empathy. This denly I had found a solution on a course discussing the form from within. higher levels of self-harm, suicides, unrest and does not mean having to feel sorry for, or mol- to that problem. The feeling of riots. So, how does a leader in prison gain re- dangers of smoking Spice. On lycoddle, a prisoner. Empathy will give a relief and joy that came from the tea-break I watched guys During every other course I spect from staff and prisoners and subse- leader a 360° view: it will allow them to take the first pill, spliff, drink or hit; go to the toilet and come back have done, people can and do quently use that respect? into account the needs and situations of staff eased that suffering and high as a kite, on the very sub- put up a front for a period of and prisoners alike, to enable to best resolu- hooked me into a pattern of stance about which the dan- time. But living with people Diplomacy and tact are very high in the skills tion possible to any given situation. destructive living that would gers were being highlighted. for eighteen months, two or list of a good leader. On a daily basis, prisoners map my life for thirty years. It was of course driven by mis- sometimes four years, the real are expected, or told, to do things that are at There are, of course, extra features that can placed criminal loyalties, that person will always reveal As a Young Offender, I remem- conflict with the lives which they once led on help a person to be a good leader. These are kept everything that needed themselves. And that, for me, ber calling home once. “Why ‘the outside’. They are refused things regularly not solid requirements, but they can help to to be addressed quiet and out is when change can occur. don’t you just stop using?” Mum and have to live by a much tighter and stricter lubricate the implementation of the a f o r e - of sight. Yet I never realised Dropping the guard is when a suggested, at the end of her person can be shown who they set of rules than Joe Public. A tactful request mentioned skills. Charisma is one of those that, until coming to Grendon. tether. To which I replied: “Oh really are by others, or, as we or diplomatic refusal is more likely to elicit features. A charismatic leader can command yeah! That’s a good idea Mum,” It was unthinkable that I was call it, ‘Reality Confrontation’. compliance and discipline from most prison- attention in a shorter period of time. Charisma so I stopped, with the belief it as bad as the next bloke when It’s then that we can be offered ers. Subsequent to a diplomatic approach, a has the ability to disarm and captivate. Cha- solutions to change. prisoner will feel more respected and will risma alone, however, without the substance start, albeit sometimes begrudgingly, to hold of the other necessarily skills will lead to a Our team of specialists can o er Most literature will tell you respect for that prison officer or governor. much shorter shelf-life of respect for a leader. free advice and assistance in that addiction is progressive A sense of humour can also be a plus for a good relation to Legally Aided issues, and fatal if not treated, but it Confidence and trust for, and from, a leader leader. This, though, needs to be employed including: does not have to be that way. are also core necessities. A prisoner needs to tactically and if not used at the right times, and Addiction is treatable whatev- have confidence that they are being heard and in the correct context, can result in blurred Lifer/IPP Parole Board Reviews (Pre/Post Tari ) er the substance or behaviour. Recalls they must have trust that the prison officer or boundaries or misunderstandings. There are options to live com- Independent Adjudications governor will see through any assurances that fortably drug or drink free; but Category A Reviews they have given to the prisoner. Similarly, at Above all, a good leader needs drive and abil- that takes hard graft, a huge the appropriate juncture in their relationship, ity. They have to have determination and flex- We can also o er competitive xed fees for matters amount of courage to talk and the prison officer or governor needs to exhibit ibility. They have to be able to inspire which are not currently covered by Legal Aid such as: ask for help; though mostly that they have confidence and trust in a pris- themselves and others. They have to be able to Sentence planning/calculations (and I believe this is key) a oner by way of, for example, small tasks or think on their feet. They have to have patience Challenging Licence Conditions humanising, structured and honest environment for an unsupervised responsibilities. and good instinct. But it should always be re- Re-categorisation Accessing O ending Behaviour Programmes extended period of time. membered: there are no perfect leaders; only Another hugely important attribute for a leader good leaders who strive for perfection. Contact us today: Address: to possess is the skill of impartiality. Many T: 01752 600833 Genesis O ce 6, 235 Union Street Nathan Joshua, a nom de prisoners harbour feelings of injustice, which @: o [email protected] Plymouth, Devon PL1 3HN plume, is a resident of HMP can leap to the fore at the merest scratch. Their Kevin Kennedy-Telford is a resident of HMPPS Grendon MICHAEL PURDON SOLICITOR SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED AN EXPERT PAROLE - RECALL PRE-TARIFF REVIEWS CAT A REVIEWS-TARIFF REVIEWS NATIONWIDE SERVICE Founding members, serving for 3 years as Chair and Deputy Chair of the Association of Prison Lawyers

CALL US: 0191 232 1006 VISIT: purdonlaw.co.uk EMAIL: [email protected] LONDON: 7 New Square, Lincolns Inn, London, WC2C 3QS (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY) NEWCASTLE: Wards Buildings, 31-39 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 1EW 26 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 Book review Inside Voices

difficulties with violence. Her only tool is Escobar’s inher- Prisoners and the public All for love... itance and this she barters down to the last aeroplane. At David J Mills - HMP Erlestoke The definition is ‘not closed or fastened’ for the same time she is dealing Mrs Escobar - My Life with Pablo those readers of The Sun who may share the with the government who, by Victoria Eugenia Henao / Publisher: Ebury Press author’s lack of understanding. understandably, expect their ISBN: 978-1785039928 / RRP: £12.99 Prisons, by their very nature, tend to be rather share. challenging places to move freely in and out of. This daily dose of negative reporting will inev- children and even long peri- The son, the Much of the normal daily contact that is avail- itably seep into the public consciousness and ods of confinement and exile.’ able today between people is forbidden, except give a misleading view of both prisoners and All, she repeats, for love, al- brother, the many in tightly controlled situations such as super- prison life. So, what are your options if the sub- Rachel Billington though later in the book she girlfriends have all vised visits, monitored letters and eavesdropped ject of prisons holds an interest for you? Perhaps throws in the fear that her calls to authorised numbers. As a member of you may decide to view one of the fly-on-the-wall Pablo Escobar used bribery, husband might have turned had their turn so the public, you simply cannot potter into a documentaries that are increasingly popular kidnap and extortion to build on his one and only beloved now it’s the wife’s prison and wander about chatting to strangers these days - this is real footage of day-to-day a Columbian drug cartel wife and their children if she that you happen to bump into. You may well life, so surely must be accurate. You may even which ran 80% of the global had dared to leave him. The chance. wish to discuss the interesting architectural decide to encourage your own children to watch cocaine market. At the height picture she paints is of a features of the establishment, or the surprising so they can see what waits for them if they choose of the Medellin cartel’s suc- woman trapped in her youth Finally, she succeeds in tak- amount of people favouring last year’s fashion the wrong path in later life. cess, it made 26 billion dollars by the male dominated soci- ing her son, his girlfriend and in tracksuits, but sadly this is a potential avenue in one year. At the same time ety she inhabited and by her her daughter to Argentina of social interaction that just will not happen. My own family and friends viewed the recent in 1991 there were 25,100 mur- own ignorance as much as by where they still live. At first series ‘Britain Behind Bars’ and now think that ders rising to 27,100 two years her great love. This would they were unknown, living As a member of the general public, you may this is an accurate representation of daily life later of which 600 were po- suggest a weak woman. under assumed names, but not even know anyone who has been to prison for all UK prisoners. Well, no, whilst it clearly licemen. These were victims the huge publicity given to in order for you to have some first-hand infor- concentrates on what goes on in select prison of Escobar’s targeted assassi- Pablo Escobar, books, films mation of what incarceration in the UK is really wings with certain inmates; it is not represent- nations, which also included and TV series, broke their like. If the prison system is a subject that holds ative of ‘normal life’ for most. Where were the the Justice Minister and the cover and bad news followed an interest for you, and for most it does not interviews with those working or studying, even presidential candidate. Even- with Victoria and her son despite what we all think, then how do you cooking? Or those involved in meetings? The tually his brutal, dictatorial both spending time in prison establish any idea as to what it’s actually all producers deliberately sensationalised the pro- methods unified rival drug for financial irregularities. about? Well, you rely on the information that gramme and as a result showed a skewed vision cartels with the government Proclaiming her innocence, you either see or hear primarily from the press. of this hidden world. The programme makers and in 1993 he was killed in Victoria was released without actually spoke to me for over 30 minutes about the traditional hail of bullets. charge. Now there is this book. Whilst there are the movies that involve prison life here in Erlestoke but despite their claims life, I think most people realise that watching that they wished to show a balanced vision, What woman, one might rea- It will not hit the spot for a Sly Stallone break out of increasingly challeng- chose to ignore all of the positive suggestions sonably ask, would stay mar- reader who wants a chrono- ing high security prison situations, armed only made. ried and loyal to such a logical retelling of Pablo’s with his guile and a piece of gum-wrapper, is monster for sixteen years? In horrific progress through the probably unrepresentative of normal life here, This all tends to play into the hands of a certain the opening paragraph of this world of Narcos ...but it does behind bars in the UK. group of politicians who understand that voters extraordinary book, Victoria give another viewpoint on the are understandably worried that tens of thou- Escobar answers this ques- story which deserves telling. If you, as a law-abiding citizen, have decided Yet in the story she tells she sands of these frightening prisoners will be tion quite simply by saying The son, the brother, the to receive daily information in an objective and seems anything but weak. released back into their world each year. They she loved him. They met when many girlfriends have all had even-handed manner you may decide to take This is particularly obvious in offer a solution to these concerns by campaign- she was twelve and he was their turn so now it’s the a newspaper that you feel delivers this to you. the chapters describing her ing for longer as well as tougher sentences. They twenty-three and already in- wife’s chance. The enigma at If, however, this road isn’t really for you, then life after Escobar’s death in are ‘clear in their tough stance on law and order’ volved in illegal activities. its heart, why did she stay perhaps you read The Sun, Express or even the the proverbial hail of bullets, and what voter wouldn’t like that? They may They married when she be- with him, despite being hor- Daily Mail (if your thing is a shot of outrage when she is negotiating with even hint that the death penalty should be re- came pregnant at fifteen and rified at his behaviour, re- each sunrise). It would be unfair to single out whenever he wanted her at her husband’s enemies, ‘Los introduced for a range of crimes - how much of mains unanswered - for me, just these three publications for special men- his side, she went to him. Pepes’, to allow her family to hard-working taxpayers’ cash would that save at least. But perhaps that is tion, but they do appear to provide an almost survive and find a new life for each one executed? why I kept reading. daily dose of stories concerning prisoners in a She writes, ‘I endured affairs, outside Columbia. Flying all over the country to secret lo- particularly negative light. The Prison Reform Trust told me this is the hard- insults, humiliations, lies, Mrs. Escobar - My Life with cations, a grief-stricken est time that they can remember for progressing loneliness, raids, death Pablo by Victoria Eugenia widow completely alone, she To provide just one example of this, the Ministry their ideals since the current government came threats, terrorist attacks, kid- Henao. Published by Ebury of Justice released information last year regard- to power a few months ago. Fingers crossed for napping attempts on my confronts men used to ending press £14.99. ing open prison status prisoners who had ab- the next one. sconded from ‘D’ Cat prisons. The point of the data was to highlight a couple of interesting Forensic Accountants Pickup & Scott cover the majority of points; firstly that the trend over a 5-year period with over prisons in the South East including was downwards, so positive, and that secondly; 20 Years Experience but not limited to: HMP Bullingdon, of those that failed to return, 97.4% were now back. But how did The Sun, with its lofty repu- • Proceeds of Crime & Confiscation HMYOI Aylesbury, HMP Woodhill, • Money Laundering HMP The Mount, HMP Bedford, tation for impartiality, choose to report this • Tax Investigations good news? ‘542 lags flee UK’s soft open prisons’. • Fees with Legal Aid Funding HMP Grendon & Springhill • Ex-Serious Fraud Office Forensic Accountant In addition to this deliberately disingenuous “The case settled very favourably thanks in large headline, they rather impressively, in a 100- measure to your report. It is not often that one We are able to assist with all word piece, managed to squeeze in references finds an expert who is so thorough” aspects of prison law, including: Please contact to ‘convicts’, ‘murderers’, the manslaughter of Client Benefit Amount Riley Moss Benefit The Prison Law Dept at: Mr M £783,000 £6,000 an 88 year-old, as well as the fact that one of Mr D £1,176,000 £18,000 • Parole Board Reviews Pickup & Scott Solicitors the open prisons was ‘just like a holiday camp’ Mr A £2,040,000 £77,000 • Recall to Prison 6 Bourbon Street (as alleged by an unnamed source). Not satisfied Contact Waseem Yasin or John Rafferty for • Independent Adjudications Aylesbury with all this, they continued their sense of in- FREE no obligation advice • Sentence Calculation Bucks HP20 2RR credulousness by observing that the ‘convicts’ 0161 832 1438 were just able to walk out unchallenged from [email protected] 01296 397 794 www.rileymoss.co.uk Members of the Association of Prison Lawyers these ‘soft prisons’, completely failing to un- 184 Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester, M8 8LQ derstand what the word ‘open’ actually means. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 27

broke a bottle and stabbed caught and smashed the place past 3-years. I’ve been diag- him 16 times. I was nicked for up. After that I had to have a nosed as having PTSD and is Section 18, pleaded guilty and 3-staff escort whenever I was it any wonder. I’m on antipsy- got 6-years. I had a 28-day outside my cell and I was even chotics and I know I’ll never laydown in HMP Moorland, handcuffed to a member of get rid of the label that has Manchester, Durham the staff when I was on exercise. been hung around my neck. usual merry-go-round. I was I renewed my efforts to get out What I’d really like to do is get still classed as having an un- of Rampton and looked at the system changed so that treatable personality disor- how it could be done. Another others don’t have to go der. Eventually they diagnosed con suggested I kill a member through what I went through. me as ‘untreatable’ and I of staff, then they’d have to ended up in Rampton Hospi- send me back to prison, but tal, which was no picnic. my solicitor advised ‘no vio- Mental health facts lence’ as IPP had just come in What was Rampton like? and I’d be out of the frying l In 2016, the Prisons and pan and into the fire. So, I Probation Ombudsman Horrible. It has that nasty phoned the police and told found that 70% of prisoners hospital smell and its damp them I wanted to admit to who had committed suicide Scott and Dr Bob – mental health challenges and cold. They tried to jolly it some burglaries… between 2012 and 2014 up by telling me that I’d get had mental health needs. £57 a week in benefits and Why? that they had a swimming lIt is estimated that around pool, but I basically told them Well, the only way out of £400million is the amount Down a Dark Path to f*** off. I kicked off and Rampton was to go to court spent by NHS England in they kept me in isolation, I for a further crime and get 2016-17 on providing men- ‘I went on a ‘No Walk’ protest and the staff had to carry me was fed through a hatch. I sent to prison. I was trying to tal and physical healthcare everywhere for 3 months’. ended up wrecking their se- get back to prison and away in adult prisons in England. clusion rooms and they put from the mental health side. I Yorkshire. My dad left when I Harm, just generally making l There are 31,328 people me on constant watch, card- was in the DSPD, Rampton, was 5 years old and then, a nuisance of myself. This in prison who report hav- board furniture and toilet, so prison hospitals only because when I was 9, my mum met time I got sectioned under the ing mental health or well- Noel Smith I calmed down and they put they made me fit the criteria someone else and I ended up Mental Health Act and at the being issues at any one me on the wards. I decided to and I went along with it for a with a stepdad. I hated him. age of 17 I was diagnosed as time, based on HM Inspec- escape but couldn’t get out, while. Anyway, the police He was a bully and I suffered a paranoid schizophrenic. In torate of Prisons surveys. Scott Maloney is not shy so I ended up smashing up TIC’ed the burglaries so I many beatings at his hands. the unit where I was being talking about his life. He the office. I actually did break didn’t even get to court. The He was an evil monster, quite held, I reported the fact that 37% of the average thing is I had to get a prison tells it like it is with no at- simply. He had been in some I had been sexually abused out of the ICU, which had monthly prison popula- tempt to dissemble or em- sort of trouble himself when by a member of staff, and this never been done before. They sentence of 12-months or tion, 7,917 people, are re- bellish. His story is a younger and he got off by fak- led to a vendetta against me said I needed another 8 years more in order to get away corded by NHS England as frightening one; the tale of ing mental illness, so he by the other staff so the only of treatment and I was not from Rampton. So, I found out receiving treatment for how attempting to feign drummed it into me that if I thing I could really do was happy with that. all the names of the staff, mental health illnesses in picked out 50 of them and prison in England & Wales mental illness can lead you ever got into trouble I should escape. Was anyone helping you at this sent them letters saying I in- in 2016/17. into a dark place from tell people that I was hearing voices telling me to do things. And how did that go? time? tended to kill them, then sent which there seems no es- l According to the House I started to get into trouble, copies of the letters to the po- cape. Inside Time inter- of Commons Committee of first when I was 12, for shop- I managed to escape all right, Yeah, Doctor Bob (Dr Bob lice. To cut a long story short, Public Accounts, ‘Mental viewed Scott in order to lifting and petty crime, fight- but I ended up getting lost in Johnson) always backed and the police finally got inter- Health in Prisons’ 2017- get his cautionary tale to ing and stuff. When I was 14 I Northampton and pretty soon supported me, he knew that ested and charged me with 2019 report, between 10% our readership. was arrested for robbery and got caught. I ended up in Don- what was happening was threats to kill and I was taken and 90% of prisoners in a stabbing and was sent to a caster prison at the age of 18. wrong and he always tried to to court. England & Wales are Hi Scott, can I ask you why you secure unit for 3-years. And I Then my daughter Chloe was help me. But I was up against thought to have mental are so keen to raise mental was given Depot injections of born, which was a highlight Rampton. I really wanted out What happened then? health issues. health issues? Clopixal, an anti-psychotic of my life. But Social Services of there, so I went on a hunger strike which lasted 24 hours. After a lot of legal argument I drug. got involved, because of my l The number of male pris- Then I decided on a ‘No Walk’ was remanded to prison, and Really, I’d like to explain my lifestyle and the fact that I oners being transferred to protest, where I refused to I was delighted with that. I experiences in order to help Were you hearing voices? had been diagnosed as a par- hospital under the 1983 was sent to HMP Nottingham, other people and maybe stop anoid schizophrenic. They walk anywhere for three Mental Health Act grew by them from going down the No, I was not. I spent most of wouldn’t let me see her. So I months. The staff had to carry where I kept my head down more than 20% between same route that I did. that time in seclusion and I started abusing drink and me wherever they wanted me and got on with it. I went to 2011 and 2014 (the last was eventually released when drugs, mainly amphetamine. to be. Eventually they had the court and got a 2½ year sen- year figures were availa- So, how did it all start? I was 16½. On the out I was Eventually I ended up in an bright idea of putting me in a tence. I got released in 2008 ble) in England & Wales. committing burglaries, drunk argument with a bloke over wheelchair. Once again I es- and really I’ve been keeping (FOI to MoJ). I was brought up in Halifax in and disorderly, Actual Bodily something silly and I lost it. I caped from the ICU but got out of trouble for about the CANTERS CRIME M c. IVOR . FARRELL We are a friendly rm, with solicitors and legally PURCELL PARKER Northern Irish Solicitors quali ed sta who are experts in their particular Solicitors areas of law BIRMINGHAM’S TOP • Criminal Appeals (Sentence or Conviction) WE’RE HERE TO HELP AREAS OF WORK PRISON LAWYERS • Parole Hearings Please call us on LICENSE RECALL PAROLE REVIEWS Licence Recalls • Proceeds of Crime/Confiscation Hearings 028 9023 7053 or 028 9032 4565 Prisoner Adjudications • Police Interviews under PACE throughout or write to us at IPP REVIEWS ADJUDICATIONS NI and in Prisons Other Prison Law issues considered IPP & Lifer Parole 129 Springfield Road but payment may be on a private fee basis HDC • All Criminal Defence Cases Belfast BT12 7AE Sentence Calculations • Judicial Review & Human Rights Cases All areas of Criminal work including Police IT’S THAT SIMPLE!! Interviews/ Court Appearances Re - Categorisation • Family Law CONTACT US Call now to speak with: • Injury Claims within the Prison Tiernan Davis, Sadie Rice or Jan Arkwright 0151 239 1020 • Welfare Issues Purcell Parker Solicitors • Prison Visits Arranged within 24hrs [email protected] 204 - 206 Corporation Street Birmingham B4 6QB 24 DALE STREET , LIVERPOOL L2 5RL 0121 236 9781 [email protected] www.mcivorfarrell.co.uk 28 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 From Over the Wall Garden Chronicles

The book I am reading at the well as seriously affecting the moment is a very detailed bi- life of her daughter. Terry Waite CBE ography of Richard Sorge. If Providing joy and hope you have never heard of him Another brutal murderer I I am sure he is working his I wouldn’t be surprised as he knew was Idi Amin of Uganda way around the new hens. Pages in history died many years ago. It is said who styled himself as the Poor Hope thought she was by many that he was one of King of Scotland! His crimes his favourite but now has to I don’t know how it was that the greatest spies ever. Al- did not equate to those of Sta- share his interest with all the I first learned to love books as though he was a German, he lin but they were pretty others. It has made no differ- when I was a child there were spied for the Russians and his terrible. ence that Cocky is at least half not many books in our house. main activities took place the size of the new hens. He’s My father had a collection of around the First World War All this brings me to ask what a Mille Fleur Bantam and the the works of Charles Dickens. and leading up to the Second. about those individuals, new girls are Warrens. Obvi- Dickens was an author who It is well known that Joseph some of whom may be reading ously size does not matter as wrote vividly about life in Stalin was ruthless in his de- this article, who have taken far as chickens are concerned. Victorian times. Many of his sire to keep in power but I had the life of another - either de- We are now having two eggs works have been adapted for forgotten just how ruthless he liberately or by accident? each day from Hetty and the stage and I suppose the was. He had no qualms at all There is no escaping the fact Betty. The others are still a bit musical ‘Oliver’ would be one about murdering those who that the consequences will be young to lay but their combs of the better known. I tried to had worked alongside him severe. I know many people are getting redder and more read his writings when I was and murdered thousands, who have, for one reason or prominent, so it won’t be long young but gave up after a yes, thousands of people in another, taken a life and as before they too are providing while as for me, at the age of purges that took place leading the years have gone by now for their keep. But I will be so nine or ten, he used far too up to World War Two. Sorge bitterly regret their actions at Hetty (left), “soon became Cocky’s favourite” proud to put their eggs on my many big words which I could himself was recalled to return the time. Well, that memory new gleaming table for the not under-stand. to Moscow from Japan, where will be with them forever. he was working as a Soviet However, even though the Jenny Greengrass Poor Hope neighbours to also enjoy. My supply of books came agent, but ignored the de- dead cannot be brought back mand. That almost certainly to life, forgiveness is possible. thought she was I am volunteering at the Food- from making visits to jumble It is great to be back sharing saved his life for a few years. bank again today and taking sales and rummaging with you my garden experi- his favourite but I still find it hard to believe The person who has commit- a few onions with me. Along through the piles of books ences. Last year I not only that human beings can be- ted the crime will need to face now has to share with some of the other pro- that people had donated. provided vegetables for my come so obsessed with power up to their actions and de- duce, they could help with There was never enough family but also had a small his interest with all that they will do virtually an- ter-mine in some way or an- basic meals such as soup or money in our house for me to table at the bottom of my drive ything to maintain their other to make the remainder the others. simple tinned meat dishes. I go into a bookshop to buy a selling plants and home position. of their life positive for others, will start to see what is of in- new book and so second-hand grown produce. Some of the as well as for themselves. A environment. Also it would terest so that I can gauge what books it had to be. In those money was used to buy com- Even though prisoner wrote to me the other show them where their home fresh vegetables I can take days, having dipped into post and seeds but some was day saying that his deeds is at the end of the day, as they along as an extra bonus dur- Dickens, I thought the smart the dead cannot also given back to our local from the past kept going are all free range. ing the summer months. way to write was to use ‘big’ be brought back to round and round in his mind. charity. words like he used. This Help is available if wanted. As However we did not anticipate My greenhouse is now set up meant that I struggled for life, forgiveness is Last weekend I painted the for the likes of Stalin, Hitler the reaction and interest that with growing vegetables hours at school trying to write table ready for what I hope possible. and company, one can’t help Cocky was giving to my new ready to transplant into the an essay. I was not helped by will be the first lay of my new but wonder how they felt in flock. Cocky and Hope have vegetable beds. Every couple the fact that being left handed hens. We still have ‘Cocky the You can’t behave with callous their last hours on earth? Per- always been free range so as of days I go into the green- and having to write with a Cockerel’ and the one remain- ruthlessness without it seri- haps they had become so soon as they came out of their house to check on the seeds. pen that had to be dipped into ing hen from the original flock ously affecting you for the hardened to brutality that coop first thing in the morn- It never fails to amaze me an inkwell, writing without which I called Hope (hoping worse, and also affecting they felt nothing? If that was ing they immediately looked when seeds start to burst smudging the work was very she would survive the winter, those around you. I knew Sta- the case then they had lost all at these new chickens - eying forth and currently I have lit- hard indeed. Well, those days which she has). Last month we lin’s daughter, Svetlana, who humanity and that is Hell. them with interest (especially tle plants of peas, broad are way in the past now and bought a further 6 hens - all came to stay with us in Lon- Cocky). One of the hens, a lit- beans and sprouts; such joy today my house is overflow- don when she decided to try Terry Waite was a successful point of lay, meaning they are tle blonde which we have to me as an amateur gardener ing with books of all kinds. and settle in the UK. She hostage negotiator before he on the verge of laying. A new called Hetty, was proving to and hopefully joy to my new Many publishers send me didn’t settle, but that is an- himself was held captive in coop was set up ready for be of particular interest and friends at the Foodbank. copies of new books to review other story. She could never Beirut for 1763 days between them with a large run as they as soon as they were all let out or to request a quote for the escape the fact that her father 1987 and 1991; the first four would need to be kept indoors to roam around the garden his cover and so I am never short was a brutal murderer and years were spent in solitary for a week or two to get them interest proved to be all Jenny Greengrass is a keen of something to read. this fact warped her life as confinement. used to their new time-consuming. amateur horticulturist Happy Unit 19B, Imperial House, St. HappyPatrick's St. Patrick's 64 Willoughby Lane, Day! London N17 0SP Day! Call us: 0208 8017422 ARE YOU RETURNING TO THE Email: [email protected] Forensic Accountants www.legalguys.co.uk ARELIVERPOOL YOU RETURNING CITY REGION? TO THE LIVERPOOL CITY REGION? CONFISCATION PROCEEDINGS UNDER POCA! LIVERPOOL-HALTON-WIRRAL The Legal Guys We take pride in providing a LIVERPOOL-HALTON-WIRRAL Bartfields have considerable UK wide experience of ST HELENS-KNOWSLEY-SEFTON analysing and revising prosecution benefit calculations ST HELENS-KNOWSLEY-SEFTON Do you need an immigration lawyer? within tight deadlines. (Legal aid available) full range of DO YOU WANT SOME HELP Free prison visit for all pre-confiscation hearing cases We can help with: DO YOU WANT SOME HELP Recent Cases: Criminal and Prison Law WITH READING, WRITING OR Represantations to the Home Office WITH READING,JOB SKILLS? WRITING OR Prosecution Benefit Bartfields Benefit Services. JOB SKILLS? Mr M £69,000 £8,000 Appeals against deportation FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE Mr C £3,684,000 £47,000 Mrs D £271,000 £45,000 FOR ASSISTANCE PLEASE CONTACT FORCONTACT FURTHER MAURA INFORMATION OR MICHAEL PLEASE Bail applications Mr O £378,000 £16,000 CONTACT MAURA OR MICHAEL Leave to remain applications DIRECTIONS, IRISH COMMUNITY CARE, Mr L £1,015,000 £111,000 Hannah Rumgay Mrs N £785,000 £103,000 DIRECTIONS,151 DALE STREET, IRISH LIVERPOOLCOMMUNITY L2 CARE, 2AH Partner applications 151 DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL L2 2AH Contact Raymond Davidson on 03332224445 (opt3) Prison Law Solicitor 0151 237 39 87 Bartfields Forensic Accountants Tates, 12 Park Place, Leeds LS1 2RU 0151 237 39 87 St Paul’s House,23 Park Square,Leeds,LS1 2ND [email protected] www.bartfieldsforensic.co.uk 0113 242 2290 Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 29

who take part gain in self-con- that prisoners spend the day draw up business plans for fidence and self-belief. He mingling with the volunteers how it could be marketed, said: “I’ve had one guy take on equal terms: “I think it’s competing in teams as in TV me aside and tell me the pro- that humanising which is the show The Apprentice. Parker, ject had stopped him from kill- most important thing that we who has been running ing himself. I love the amount do. The singing is a vehicle for courses at HMYOI Feltham of laughter we get in the re- that.” since 2010, says participants hearsal room. Prison doesn’t learn entrepreneurship and seem to be an environment The various prison music life skills as well as music. for laughter, you don’t hear charities inevitably compete much on the wings.” with one another to be invited He cautions that when it comes in by governors and to secure to the young men he works Another charity, Liberty Choir, funding. with: “A lot of guys don’t supports all-year-round think singing is cool”, so the choirs in three prisons and What of Aylesbury itself? Its recordings are more likely to featured briefly in Malone’s governor, Laura Sapwell, fea- be rap or spoken word. documentary when he visited tured heavily on screen in a rehearsal at Wandsworth to Malone’s documentary. Be- There has been controversy take advice. hind the scenes, she viewed over whether violent lyrics in the programme carefully be- rap and drill music can pro- In harmony: Prisoners and volunteers together at a Sing Inside project at Whitemoor Some prisons organise their fore transmission. She also

Credit: Sing Inside mote crime, but Parker be- own regular choirs which re- ensured that the prisoners who lieves that allowing young Project (PCP). “In fact it’s a hearse weekly, including featured on screen saw their somewhat crowded market- offenders to write about the Stafford and Littlehey, both own segments in advance. violence they have experi- place. There’s lots of people with a high proportion of Singing time! enced can be beneficial if it like me trying to run projects older residents. Other prisons Viewers saw Malone fail to encourages them to reflect on in prisons.” invite outside groups in for assemble a full-scale prisoner morning by spontaneously their lives. He tells the story occasional singing events. choir - but his alternative bursting into a chorus of a of a 17-year-old he worked Green spent 20 years as a pro- working with individual Ben Leapman song from the show. with who wrote lyrics about fessional opera singer, before Sing Inside, a charity founded young men to tell their stories his plans for life after release. launching his charity in 2016. by Cambridge University stu- through solo songs or rap pro- There are lots of TV documen- It has worked in six prisons, The tone was mostly hopeful When celebrity choirmaster dents in 2014, has grown rap- duced some emotional mo- taries filmed in prisons. notably Dartmoor and it will until the last two lines, which Gareth Malone visited Ayles- idly since its first workshop at ments. Sapwell called the Whilst some focus on drugs start at two more, Bristol and read: “I know where the guy bury to get the prisoners sing- HMP Bedford and now works experiment: “A powerful pro- and violence, Malone’s was Send, this month. is who killed my friend, so I ing for a TV documentary, he regularly in 15 prisons. It typ- ject which has had a profound praised for showing a positive guess it’s back to the drilling found it tough. Security re- ically brings in 10 volunteers impact”. side of prison life - how music In the PCP’s bigger projects, a [violence].” Parker challenged strictions made filming hard, for a day-long workshop with can help with rehabilitation. handful of professional sing- the teenager, pointing out while many of the young men 15 to 20 prisoners, leading to When filming ended last year, Yet viewers might have been ers visit a prison daily to re- that his dead friend would showed little interest - they left with the impression that a concert at the end of the af- so did the singing. But at the hearse with around 20 probably not have wanted were more into rap or drill Malone was a pioneer in ternoon to which family visi- start of 2020 a legacy emerged prisoners. After four weeks, him to seek revenge and than the kind of traditional bringing singing to prisons. tors may be invited. with the launch of a new the combined company puts wreck his own life in the pro- music Malone favours. In fact, jails across Britain are music project at Aylesbury, on a full-scale musical. cess. Later the teenager sought home to musical initiatives The charity’s co-founder and run by Hackney Music Devel- out Parker to tell him that fol- But the two-part documen- from opera to choirs to rap. The charity also runs smaller chief executive, professional opment Trust and led by lowing their conversation, he tary was well received - not projects such as one at Drake soprano Maisie Hulbert, 24, music producer and former had changed his mind. least at Aylesbury itself. “The public will be thinking: Hall, where professional sing- said participants often feel hip hop artist Charlie Parker. When it was aired on BBC ‘How amazing that Gareth ers joined women prisoners nervous at first, but end up It is a reminder that music, in Two in January, prisoners has done this, I bet no-one else for a Christmas concert. supporting one another so Men taking part in the pro- demonstrated their approval does it,’” says Adam Green, everyone gains in confidence. gramme will not only write its many forms, can be a pow- at unlock the following founder of the Prison Choir According to Green, prisoners She said another benefit was and record music but will erful tool to improve lives.

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Our dedicatedSolicitors prison law team have years of experience representing prisoners and fighting for their rights. Our team ensure all prisoners nationwide can have the best representation available. We have specialist and expert knowledge in the areas of parole board proceedings, adjudications and other areas such as HDC and re-categorisation. ‘Nicking’ On a legal aid basis we can represent clients for: Adjudication Before The Judge Licence Recalls Lifer/IPP Reviews Judicial Reviews Cat A Reviews Pre Tarriff Reviews Oral Hearings ‘Nicked’ We are also able to represent prison law clients on a number of other prisons law matters for which legal aid is not available which include: Challenging License Conditions ‘Adjudications’ Adjudications Before The Governor Contact Us For A Quote Whatever it is called, it can lead to an extra 6 weeks on your sentence. Prison Law Department Don’t go it alone, get expert lawyers Call 0115 9419141 24 Hours a day on your side. 7 days a week Nottingham Office J Call us: 01642 247656 Cannon Courtyeard P Off Long Row Nottingham, NG1 6JE Write to us: 102-108 Borough Road, [email protected] Middlesbrough, Teesside TS1 2HJ OFFICES NATIONWIDE 30 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 Inside Scotland A selection of news and features relating Putting Family First to prisons and justice for our friends and After-school clubs in prison colleagues north of the border. Kirsty Deacon not the white shirt and black dress trousers of the prison officers within the visit room. The Family Learning Group at HMP Kilmar- Their attitude was very much to stand back nock currently runs fortnightly, allowing up and allow the families to spend time to- Perfect storm brewing gether, without the oppressive feeling of to five men to have an hour-long visit with their children (although one attendee was an surveillance that there can be within other voted in 2019 to reject his flag- uncle) on top of their other visits. Held within visits (though this is not to say that safety ship professionalization the gym, and run by gym and education and security wasn’t paramount). The chil- scheme, despite being offered staff, it has the format of an after-school club dren could sit beside their family members, up to £1,000 each as an incen- where food is provided, the children can take not on chairs on opposite sides of a table tive to support it. in homework and are able to simply spend bolted to the floor. The families ate together, time with their family members. I went to shared their food, and played games at the Reducing the prison popula- four Group sessions and spoke to some of the tables or football or tennis in the gym. The tion has been the goal of Gov- men who attended, along with the staff who staff were always present but the Group pro- ernment since at least 2008, run it. vided the men with a certain level of auton- and nowhere has this failed omy within the space. worse than for women in Most prison visits research concentrates on prison. With many arguing those that take place within the visit room. Often when we think about improving visits that only 100 women in cus- This instead shows what alternative visiting we think in terms of quantity, but we also tody need to be in prison, this options can provide for families. The Group need to think about quality - there is “better population is growing too, brought an element of ‘normality’ to family bonding in an hour than a full month of Sat- reaching 380 in 2019. Cornton relations and interactions. The space the urday visits” (Paul, dad). Vale is still open, despite the Bursting seams group was held in, the staff who ran it and

© Deposit Photos Government’s plan to close it the activities that took place all helped con- The experiences of the families within this since 2012. tribute to this feeling. Group, albeit small in number (only a maxi- Record numbers in person. Other problems are mum of 10 from a population of up to 500 Audit Scotland has found ev- Scottish prisons, a chief the longer sentences being “...they forget they’re in a jail and they forget men can access this provision) provides us idence of a tick-box culture in on long term leave ru- handed down by courts, not they’re not under any scrutiny […] It’s as if with one way to do this and to begin to think its recent critical review. De- moured about to quit, a only for serious sexual crimes I’ve been able to get out the jail for a night about visits differently. spite producing 6,000 more prison officer strike vote and homicide but also for of- every two weeks and sit in the kitchen with fences at the lower end of the education qualifications them…” (Andy, dad) Kirsty Deacon is a former PhD student at over pay, rising numbers scale. Sentences for handling under the new education con- the University of Glasgow where she com- of assaults, serious ques- a weapon and housebreaking tract in 2017-18, these have all The gym looked like any community gym pleted her thesis on young people’s experi- tions about those dying in have risen 2-3 times over the been at the lowest end of the space. The staff were dressed in gym clothes, ences of having a family member in prison. custody and scathing re- past 15 years. scale - health and safety cer- ports by an anti-torture tificates and other non-ac- group (see this issue) and The knock-on effects of more credited offerings. There has Audit Scotland. The lid prisoners has been increased been a 28% drop in the num- may be about to blow off use of doubling-up in cells, ber of upper level educational Helping prisoners to qualifications, meanwhile, at Scottish prisons. more fights between prisoners and assaults on staff, and Nat 5 and above, the equiva- Around the UK and the world, greater use of segregation, lent of GCSEs in England. reintegrate into family life Scotland has enjoyed a repu- with insiders claiming SRUs tation for a progressive, reha- are constantly full and more Finally, families are still seek- Graham Steven those on a Home Detention back into family life can have bilitation focus in its prisons. prisoners spend more time ing answers over a number of Curfew from 12 weeks prior to a major emotional strain on California Professor Renford banged up - 22 or more hours high profile deaths in cus- their release and during the the whole family, and during Reese wrote glowingly of a is not uncommon. The liberal tody. In a recent FAI, a Sheriff 27,000 children in Scotland first six months after release. this extremely vulnerable pe- system that ‘prioritises reha- use of segregation, and con- officially found that SPS of- are affected by a parent going riod, having a family member bilitation’ with facilities that tinued ‘ghost training’ pris- ficers held down, stamped on, into prison every year, around We believe return from prison back into are ‘open, nicely furnished oners from establishment to dragged and held a towel over double the number of chil- that every child the family home can lead to a and warm’ with ‘inmates [sic] establishment for ‘months prisoner Allan Marshall’s dren affected by divorce, ac- break-down of family rela- given 40 hours per week of and sometimes years’ was head. The SPS listed the cause cording to the latest Scottish should have the tionships. Studies show that purposeful activity’. He vis- flagged by the Committee for of death as by ‘natural Government statistics. Re- same opportunities by ensuring ex-offenders ited the prisons just last sum- the Prevention of Torture, and causes’, and the Crown has search also shows that having have meaningful contact with mer, when Scotland was that was during a visit that declined to prosecute or fur- a parent or family member in and experiences in their families prior to release, coping with pressures and took place in 2018. ther investigate. The deaths prison can have a serious im- life, no matter their they are six times less likely problems on all sides. of two young people, Katie pact on a child’s wellbeing to re-offend. It is no surprise that Scotland Allan and William Lindsay, in and mental health, which can family situation. Prison numbers are front and has record levels of staff sick 2018 continues to ripple - with often be displayed through Bespoke sessions with Aber- centre as the root of other ills. leave, much higher than Eng- the Government recently ap- anti-social behaviour. Amanda McAllister, Families- lour Family Support Workers Bosses have been watching land, supposedly a system in pointing an independent re- 2gether, Aberlour Child Care offer emotional support and with alarm as the population crisis. The prison staff union view of how deaths in prison A new partnership between Trust, comments: “At Aber- guidance for both ex-offend- grows year on year, averaging launched a strike ballot in are handled. Scotland’s largest children’s lour, we believe that every ers and their families to en- nearly 8,200 during 2019. January over low pay, with charity, Aberlour Child Care child should have the same sure this often difficult That’s 500 more people, the basic rates less than £10 an Riots, heavy use of segrega- Trust, and the Scottish Prison opportunities and experi- process is safe and positive size of a whole prison, than hour to deal with the rising tion and reported hunger and Service & NHS Alcohol & ences in life, no matter their for both parties. The Family were held in 2018. Concerned, pressures of crowded condi- regime strikes continue to be Drugs Partnership in Dum- family situation. We under- Support Worker also works the Government’s investiga- tions. Even the head of the lacking in media coverage fries and Galloway aims to stand that an absent family closely with the relatives of tions show the rise is down service, Colin McConnell, has (see our story from May 2019 help family members return- member can severely affect those in prison to help with partly to the restricted use of had enough and has been on ‘Riots at HMP Glenochil’) but ing from prison to reintegrate children’s mental health and practical tasks in the family HDC and the ‘error terror’ of long-term sick leave since De- the pressures may soon be too back into family life. emotional wellbeing. The key home, such as budgeting and giving a tag to the wrong cember. Staff overwhelmingly great to ignore. focus of Families2gether is to meal preparations. The Aberlour Families2gether help bring families back to- support service works with gether and rebuild a safe and What’s your view? Scottish voices - prisoners, officers and others - tell us if the prisons in short-term prisoners whose welcoming family home.” For more information please Scotland are the world class, rehabilitation focused facilities they claim to be: write to us sentence is less than four contact graham.steven@ab- at Inside Time, marked ‘SCOTLAND NEWS’. years, those on remand, and Transitioning from prison erlour.org.uk Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 31 Anti-torture Scottish Newsbites Video calls to be extended The option to video call loved ones in prison group ‘troubled’ might be extended to the Shetland Islands, with negotiations on the details underway. Deborah Russo held in segregation, espe- Currently, people based in Aberdeen can cially those held in the SRU already video call their friends and relatives in and Ross House at Cornton Perth, Grampian, Barlinnie and Polmont In October 2019, the Commit- Vale. Women were found in prisons by visiting a virtual contact centre tee for the Prevention of Tor- severe mental distress being provided by Apex Scotland. This service has ture (CPT) reported on its visit held in unsuitable environ- been available since 2014, when the closure of to Scotland to assess the state ments and without proper HMP Peterhead and HMP Aberdeen meant of the police and its prisons. staffing to provide the spe- that those held in those prisons were moved The CPT is a European Coun- cialist care required by vul- further afield. Video links are also available in cil body which regularly visits nerable women with urgent “More accountability needed” © Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament Inverness. Given that the above prisons have places of detention and as- mental health needs. Legal the facilities for virtual visits, this could also sesses how detained persons processes also were not being provide an opportunity for virtual inter-prison are treated. The inspection followed due to the systemic visits. It is not clear whether these are focussed in particular on use of three full days’ con- Scottish Police Watchdog women prisoners and those finement during investiga- currently available. Another question is why, held in segregation. Though tions into alleged disciplinary ‘fundamentally flawed’ when prisoners can phone relatives in their not an investigative body, it offences. The CPT called for homes, it is not possible to do the same with has the right to visit prisons the introduction of therapeu- video calls? If you have any experience of and its reports aim to prevent tic units with specialist psy- Chairwoman resigns and asks gov- virtual visits that you would like to share, the use of torture or other in- cho-social support and positive or negative, please get in touch, human or degrading treat- treatment for these women. ernment to ‘think afresh’ adding ‘Scottish Focus’ as the first line to the ment or punishment. Inside Time address. Rachelle Cobain oversight body. Further tweaks and Severe deficiencies in health- changes may be required, but an SPA Overcrowding was a major New Chiefs for SACRO & Inspectorate care provision were identified there must be”, he wrote. issue in most establishments, throughout establishments. Susan Deacon (above), who was ap- The Chief Executive of SACRO, Tom Halpin, especially in Barlinnie, where Prisoners suffering from se- pointed to the Scottish Police Author- will retire at the end of March after ten years. ity (SPA) in 2017, said in her resignation Since Prof Deacon’s resignation, mem- many prisoners have less than vere mental conditions were bers of the Scottish Parliament’s Jus- He will be replaced by Annie Mauger- three square metres of living observed, with the Committee letter last month there was ‘little Thompson, who is described by SACRO as a more’ she could do to make the gov- tice Committee have said they plan to space in doubled-up cells - in- calling for transfers to closed leader in the not for profit sector. She has ernance and accountability of polic- invite her to come before MSPs and cluding a partitioned toilet. hospital environments for ur- headed a charity working with migrants and ing work effectively. The former outline what she believes must change gent treatment. It also found refugees in Yorkshire and most recently was Labour MSP said she had worked ‘tire- at the SPA. Conditions for remand prison- that, notwithstanding the lessly’ to ensure the SPA operated ef- interim CEO of CVS Inverclyde. New to ers were especially restrictive transfer of healthcare from fectively, and that public confidence In truth, however, I criminal justice, Annie tweeted in reaction to and had worsened considera- prison services to the NHS in and trust in policing was maintained. have increasingly news of her recruitment: “Really thrilled, bly since the CPT’s last visit in November 2011, there was no privileged and excited to be joining this 2012. comprehensive electronic “In truth, however, I have increas- become convinced that fantastic organisation and the sector”. SACRO system covering healthcare in ingly become convinced that the gov- the governance and provides support for prisoners upon release, The CPT found extremely re- prison and in the community ernance and accountability among a range of other services. On the 15th strictive regimes for prisoners - resulting in poor continuity arrangements for policing in Scotland accountability arrange- of November, Laura Paton was appointed as held in segregation for protec- of care for a population with are fundamentally flawed, in struc- ments for policing in the new HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution in tive or Rule 95(11) disciplinary complex health needs. Access ture, culture and practice, and I con- Scotland. She had previously been involved in reasons. Many were locked up to psychiatric and psycholog- clude that there is little more I can do Scotland are funda- overseeing the police in Scotland and prisons in their cells for up to 23/24 ical care in all establishments to make these arrangements work mentally flawed, in in England and Wales. She has a background in hours a day, sometimes was also found to be lacking. effectively,” she said. human rights law, with a focus on those months at a time. structure, culture and involved in the criminal justice system and “I would suggest that the Scottish gov- The Scottish government is- practice, and I conclude young people. She said: “I am delighted to The Separation and Reinte- sued its response to the find- ernment thinks afresh about how the have been appointed as HM Chief Inspector of gration Units (SRUs) were ings and recommendations of police service is scrutinised and held that there is little more I Prosecution in Scotland. Independent scrutiny being used for extensive peri- the report. Overall however, to account and how, or if, a better sep- can do to make these plays a key role in supporting an effective ods of time (sometimes even many of its responses were aration between politics and policing, criminal justice system and promoting positive years) with prisoners either vague and failed to address and indeed between the police service arrangements work outcomes for the public in Scotland”. Ms being moved from SRU to SRU the CPT’s concerns. In re- and those who oversee it, can be effectively. Paton replaces Michelle McLeod, who had in different establishments or sponse to the concerns raised achieved.” been in the post since 2013. between SRU and main- about SRUs, the SPS noted In an article published by the Herald, stream. As a result, many of that … ‘a short life working As the SPA now look to appoint their fourth chair in under six years, there Dr Kath Murray from the University of these prisoners had become group that reviewed the role is mounting concern around the or- Edinburgh and Dr Ali Malik of North- 01324 institutionalised within the and purpose of SRUs has Taylor ganisation’s structure and ability to umbria University, who have both SRU setting and found it im- made its initial recommenda- 614015 provide robust scrutiny of Police written extensively about SPA and & possible to reintegrate back tions to the programme spon- Kelly Scotland. policing institutions, suggest: “there into mainstream. sor. These will be shared with needs to be a greater focus on deliver- years’ experience in assisting prisoners throughout stakeholders before agreeing Former Justice Secretary Kenny Ma- ing public accountability, rather than 15 Scotland officially does not an approach going forward’ focusing on the minutiae of corporate Scotland with prison law and parole matters. cAskill said in an article for the Scots- Recognised by Chambers as one of the best have solitary confinement. but failing to provide any fur- man that while it would be appropriate details in public board meetings.” human rights firms in Scotland. Sadly, the CPT said most pris- ther details. This manageri- for the next chair to take stock he oners held in segregation al-type tone is adopted in questioned the need for fundamental They also suggest wider engagement We can assist you with: were being held in circum- most of the responses and reform and suggested ‘further tweaks’ and consultation to develop an evi- All Parole Board proceedings (Tribunals/paper reviews) dence base on policing, for example stances akin to just that, with fails to adequately respond to were more appropriate. Challenges to recall with third sector organisations, staff no purposeful activities avail- the concerns raised. It will Prison disciplinary/orderly room issues able to them, and little or no associations, academics and local therefore be up to activists, “Having presided over the SPA’s es- Downgrade challenges meaningful contact, in viola- lawyers and academics in tablishment, I know why there needs community representatives. Progression tion of UN rules. Scotland to closely follow this to be a supervisory body for a national Internal prison disputes up to ensure its prisoners are police service. Accountability and di- While a new chair is being sought the Falkirk Business Hub, 45 Vicar Street, Perhaps the most concerning not swept to one side and rection cannot lie with a Minister and SPA’s Vice Chair, David Crichton, will act as interim leader. Falkirk, FK1-1LL findings related to women forgotten. needs to be with an impartial 32 Comment www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

drugs to break the link be- selected members of the pub- like Butlin’s. But many pris- tween addiction and crime. lic, they would have backed oners have difficult back- her ‘tough’ option. She may grounds and led tough lives Ayesha Nayyar, who repre- well be right. before being jailed, while sents crime victims in her job many face an uncertain fu- as a personal injury lawyer, The pair came together at the ture once they are released. believes the opposite: “Pris- end to agree a joint five-point ons aren’t tough enough, sen- plan: declare crime a “public Among the Foston Hall resi- tences aren’t long enough”. health emergency”, establish dents who appeared in the She feels that jails are too soft a “victims’ council”, teach Channel 4 documentary were and should go back to basics about crime in schools, ap- women serving sentences for - “porridge means porridge”. point “social media mentors” non-violent offences includ- and adopt a policy towards ing shoplifting and making For the BBC programme, the serious criminals of “if in nuisance phone calls. For pair sent one another out to doubt, don’t let them out”. some, long-term drug addi- meet people who might tion, homelessness and men- change their views. Daw met How prisons are run, and how tal health problems have a family whose son, Michael, long prisoners spend in them, contributed to a life spent in was stabbed to death by a are issues that really matter. and out of jail. man who had already served They matter particularly time for violence and had since Boris Johnson won last One officer, reflecting on the breached his licence condi- December’s election on a women in her care, said: “For tions but not been recalled. promise to get tough on crime. many of them, life is harder Daw had to admit: “It’s my firm belief that simply lock- Laura and Katie meet for Janine with daisies Credit: Richard Ansett ing up and throwing away the a forbidden kiss at the prison fence key does not work. But if they had done that with Michael’s murderer, he would still be Offering Hope alive today.” Nayyar visited HMP Altcourse to see its efforts to rehabilitate Programmes on TV showing reality and debate prisoners. She was unhappy on life inside for the nation’s prisoners to find a “luxury football pitch”, a collection of birds of Inside Time report down in law: to punish, deter, the viewers, that their ap- prey, and “nicer flowerbeds reform offenders and protect proach is the correct one. than I’ve got at home.” She the public. But opinion is di- did admit to being impressed The prisoners of Foston Hall vided on how the balance Chris Daw QC, a criminal de- by a programme educating burst onto the nation’s televi- should be struck. Many want fence barrister, believes sen- young men on how to be bet- sion screens last month. A to focus on punishment and tences are too long, and ter fathers. two-part Channel 4 documen- deterrence. They want jail to points out they are getting tary, called ‘Prison’, showed be tougher. Others believe longer. He says: “Prisons are Back from their travels, the the hubbub of everyday life in that decent living conditions just warehouses for crimi- lawyers presented their cases the women’s jail. Viewers saw and worthwhile activities nals, they are universities of to a “jury” of 12. All were in- the highs - prisoners support- offer the best chance of re- crime and they make the sit- volved in the criminal justice ing one another emotionally, form, turning offenders into uation worse and worse. You system somehow, including officers dealing sensitively ex-policemen, a crime victim, ex-offenders. end up with a revolving door Credit: Richard Ansett with difficult situations. They of people who go into prison a youth worker and a re- saw the lows - bullying, a This divide was explored in and come out more sophisti- formed gangster. Since his Conservatives won on the outside than it is in drug deal, a woman on basic another documentary last cated and more dangerous they have begun to deliver on prison. Maybe that’s why stealing her neighbour’s telly. month, the five-part BBC One than when they went in.” They voted eight to four in fa- manifesto promises, includ- some of them keep coming series Crime: Are We Tough vour of Daw’s ‘soft’ approach. ing hiring 20,000 more police back.” They even saw Laura and Enough? Two lawyers with His alternative solution would Nayyar complained the jury officers, building more pris- Katie, who were brave enough contrasting opinions set out focus on tackling the causes was rigged and said that if it ons and keeping some catego- No-one wants to see desper- to come out to the nation as a to convince one another, and of offending and legalising had been 12 randomly ries of offenders inside for ate people getting themselves same-sex couple and talk longer. jailed on purpose just to se- about how they found mo- cure creature comforts. One ments for private intimacy There seems little opposition way to rebalance things within the restrictions of a in Parliament. Last month, would be to make prison prison regime. when MPs debated the Gov- tougher. Another would be to ernment’s plan to make thou- offer them enough treatment, There was plenty in the film sands of people convicted of rehabilitation and support to show that Foston Hall of- GBH or rape serve two-thirds that their life outside becomes fers hope for its residents - of their sentences instead of less grim. work training, a singing half, Labour backed the idea, group, chickens roaming the its spokesman remarking that grounds. Yet it was these pos- “there is absolute agreement Photographic artist Richard itive aspects of prison life that across the House”. This Ansett accompanied Channel triggered a harsh public change alone is expected to 4 in to Foston Hall to take por- response. add 2,000 to the prison traits of residents. He said: “I population. worked closely with each sub- Comments from viewers on ject to find a visual language social media included: “All The Conservatives have also to communicate to the outside they seem to do is have luxury promised a wide-ranging ex- world the effects of their incar- items like TVs or pets and pert review of criminal jus- ceration, and how they try to mess around like school kids” tice. In years to come this make sense of their lives inside and “Some of the women in could lead to major changes ... There is a sense that I’m there need to realise they’re of direction on policing, sen- carrying their message over in a prison and not in a holi- tencing and prisons. the walls and into the outside day camp”. world.” The images have been Lexi with budgie No-one from a comfortable shortlisted in this year’s Sony

The purpose of prison is laid Credit: Richard Ansett home would find prison to be World Photography Awards. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Comment 33

East Sutton Park, in 2016, it reported: “Violence levels on Top 10 for safety called it “a very safe prison” the closed site were high and East Sutton Park 98% and said: “Women felt staff some incidents were serious. Prescoed 96% and other prisoners sup- Drug availability and use Usk 94% ported them well. There had were also high.” Kirkham 94% been no formally recorded Parc 93% assaults or fights in the previ- The findings follow a rise in Buckley Hall 93% ous six months and most of violence and self-harm in Warren Hill 91% the minor incidents arose jails. In the year to September Littlehey 91% from friction associated with there were 61,000 incidents of Downview 91% communal living. self-harm in English and Stafford 91% Welsh prisons, a record high, “When incidents occurred, and 33,000 assaults, close to thorough investigations were a record high. Bottom 10 for safety completed and efforts were © Deposit Photos made to mediate between Top 10 for respect Birmingham 63% women.” Bedford 63% East Sutton Park 94% Hewell 63% The praise contrasted with Prescoed 93% Wormwood Scrubs 64% Warren Hill 91% Best and worst Nottingham 65% HMIP’s findings in other jails. Birmingham, Bedford and Wealstun 89% Bristol 65% Buckley Hall 88% Hewell were all rated “poor” Asked the question: “Do you two prisons emerged as the Leeds 65% Altcourse 87% Inside Time report for safety at their last inspec- feel unsafe now?”, 98% of res- best - East Sutton Park, where Swaleside 65% Dovegate 87% tions. Birmingham’s latest idents said they felt safe. Next 94% said they were treated Liverpool 66% Eastwood Park 87% The safest and most respect- best were three men’s pris- with respect, and Prescoed, Whitemoor 66% full inspection report, in 2018, Erlestoke 87% ful prisons in England and ons: Prescoed (96%) and where the figure was 93%. called it “an institution that Ashfield 86% Wales have been identified - Kirkham (94%), both open was fundamentally unsafe, by prisoners themselves. prisons, and Usk (94%). The lowest respect scores inspection report, but now where many prisoners and were at Feltham (51%) and Isis researchers at law firm Stuart staff lived and worked in fear, Bottom 10 for respect Prisoners at every jail were By contrast, the worst results (52%). The lowest respect Miller have pulled them to- where drug taking was barely asked in surveys whether for safety were at three men’s score at a women’s prison was gether to compare the results concealed, delinquency was Feltham 51% they currently felt safe and local prisons - Birmingham, again at Foston Hall (65%). from different prisons. rife and where individuals Isis 52% whether staff treated them Bedford and Hewell. At each could behave badly with near The Mount 55% with respect. Now the results one, only 63% said they felt The surveys were carried out Each prison’s results relate to impunity”. Liverpool 55% have been ranked to give the safe. The worst safety score at by HM Inspectorate of Prisons its most recent inspection up Kirkham 56% first nationwide picture of the a women’s prison was at Fos- (HMIP), which questions a to November 2019. Because At Bedford in 2018, inspectors Pentonville 57% there may be several years gulf between establishments. ton Hall (77%). random sample of prisoners found “a dangerous lack of Aylesbury 57% between inspections, some Belmarsh 57% about different aspects of control and excessive toler- The safest prison can be re- A separate survey question daily life every time it in- results go back as far as 2015. Lindholme 57% ance of poor behaviour”. At vealed as East Sutton Park, a asked: “Do most staff treat spects a jail. The findings are Leeds 58% Hewell last year, HMIP women’s open prison in Kent. you with respect?” The same published in each jail’s Last time HMIP inspected

Answers from the Bible Why forgive?

Let us not pretend that it is easy to H��b����n� �nf�r�����es� forgive someone who has hurt us badly or someone who keeps on hurting us. i� ���� ������n� p�is�� But there are two compelling reasons �n� h���n� ��� � ��� Je�u� s�i�: ‘… i� y�� d� making why we should forgive. ��rs�� ���� ���! �� f�r���� � ��r� ����� Firstly, when we refuse to forgive and sense which Jesus taught His disciples, we ��n�, y��� Fa���� ���� hold on to bitterness towards the are instructed to pray: ‘And forgive us �� f�r���� y��� ��n�.’ person, we su er the most. It has of our debts as we also have forgiven our been said: ‘Harbouring unforgiveness debtors.’1 Forgiveness is a di cult FORGIVENESS is like drinking poison and hoping the issue and it is the reason why other person will die!’ How true that Jesus then emphasises this: ‘But if you we wrote Making Sense Of is. Poisoning ourselves is exactly what do not forgive others their sins, your Forgiveness. 1 we do when we choose not to forgive. Father will not forgive your sins.’ Forgiving Others Please write to us for a copy. Finding Forgiveness Ourselves Receiving God’s Forgiveness Secondly, and more importantly, the We all stand guilty before God and, We think you will fi nd it helpful. Bible makes it clear that God expects without His forgiveness, we will face JOHN PHILLIPS us to forgive others if we want His His judgement. But we must be willing forgiveness. In the Lord’s Prayer, to forgive others 1Matthew 6:12-15

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Exercise in the gym or in your cell can help RELAX YOUR MIND.

Remember you can speak to a Listener, ask for the Samaritans phone or call them on 0845 450 7797 at any time Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Information 35 Tireless campaigners JENGbA: ‘never giving up until justice served’

Gloria Morrison Since 2016, not one joint enterprise case has been overturned by the Court of Appeal, ex- cept that of Mr John Crilly who took a plea for Joint Enterprise Not Guilty by Association manslaughter as his trial judge said he knew (JENGbA) is a grassroots campaign group he did not share the ‘intent’ of his co-defend- made up of families and supporters of prison- ant, and is also one of the heroes of the terrorist ers who were convicted using the doctrine of attack on London Bridge who stopped Usman ‘Joint Enterprise’. We formed in 2010 and after Khan with the fire extinguisher. The decision campaigning up and down the country, talk- by the courts to refuse all the cases we have ing at Universities, meeting with MPs, utilising taken back (because the individuals were in- academic reports on over-criminalisation of nocent of the index offence) is nothing to do BAME and working class communities we are © Andy Aitchison with good law, it is bad law made by the courts now supporting over 1,000 prisoners. and judges to convict innocent people that establishment; they are in denial the law was wrong. It is also • Any previous history of involvement with that Joint Enterprise is a legal doctrine that is used because if they allow one joint enterprise con- Closed visits item, i.e. pattern of drug use as demonstrated by when two or more people are involved in a viction to be overturned then they will set MDT, evidence from prisoners security file, etc; criminal offence; but sadly most of the cases precedent (case law) that others can use for JENGbA support are murder convictions. We PRISON Ryan Harman • Whether this is an isolated example or a re- their appeals. I asked Lord Toulson, one of the REFORM Advice and Information peat offence; have been arguing for nearly ten years now Supreme Court Judges, at an event we were TRUST Service Manager • Analysis/use of intelligence or incidents in- that the evidential bar used in joint enterprise both speakers at why they included ‘substan- dicating patterns of misuse of drugs or use/ defence is dangerously low, meaning that tial injustice’ in R v Jogee’s judgement. His trafficking of mobile phones, or other contra- many bystanders who are also on the periph- response was because the newspapers would We recently conducted a survey of people who band, derived either from visits or from behav- ery can also be brought into a charge as serious be saying ‘killers are being let loose’. So they have used our service and there were a number iour in the prison; as murder if the CPS and police can link other were more concerned about what the Sun and of subjects people told us they would like to • CCTV evidence or actual possession of pro- individuals to the principal offender. This can Daily Mail have to say than properly rectifying know more about. One of the subjects which hibited items on a post-visit search; be a phone call, knowledge of a weapon (even bad law which was their responsibility. came up many times was closed visits. • Correspondence/telephone monitoring evi- if the defendant did not know a weapon would dence of attempted or actual smuggling be used), basically any way to associate an JENGbA is a national campaign and we will Closed visits are when you and your visitor are through visits; individual to the principal (often they are rel- not give up until we achieve justice for our separated by a glass screen and cannot make • Finds from cell searches; and, atives) has resulted in convictions. We have loved ones. If you think you might have been physical contact. Closed visits are often im- • The prisoner’s index offence and criminal many cases where individuals deny even being wrongfully convicted using joint enterprise posed if the prison feels that there is a risk of record. at the scene but were still convicted and given then please contact us; we send in a support smuggling drugs or other prohibited items. mandatory life sentences along with the actual pack and regular newsletters to those inside The PSI says that ‘a single positive MDT should perpetrator of the offence. campaigners we are supporting letting them Guidance on the use of closed visits is included not necessarily be taken to provide sufficient know developments and progress of the cam- in PSI 15/2011 Management of Security at Vis- evidence of smuggling of drugs or of a risk of Because of our tireless campaigning we have paign. Can any of our inside campaigners who its. Closed visits may be imposed only if any the prisoner being persuaded to smuggle’. If had many interviews in television, radio and have moved and are not receiving newsletters of the grounds set out in Prison Rule 35A (4)/ there are no other factors, there should nor- printed press but the main barrier we still en- please let us know your current location? YOI Rule 11(4) are satisfied: mally be repeated MDT failures before closed counter is that people do not know about it and visits are imposed. when they are informed are not only shocked, a) It is in the interests of national security; they struggle to believe it. The most common Gloria Morrison is Campaign Co-ordinator JENGbA b) For the prevention, detection, investigation Closed visits may, in the first instance, be im- reaction people say is “That happens in the Office A, Norland House, Queensdale Crescent, or prosecution of crime; posed for up to three months. This should be UK?!” Our campaigning led to the Supreme London W11 4TL / www.jointenterprise.co c) It is in the interests of public safety; for a set period of time and not for a specific Court looking into the issue in 2016 in a case d) For securing or maintaining security or period’s entitlement or for a set number of vis- R v Jogee, in which they asked the question good order and discipline in prison/the young its. You can decide to take fewer or no visits “does joint enterprise over-criminalise second- offender institution; whilst closed visits are in place. ary parties?” JENGbA intervened in this case e) For the protection of health or morals; (which means we were granted leave from the f) For the protection of the reputation of The decision to be on closed visits should be Supreme Court to make representations by our others; reviewed every month to check if it is still nec- legal team to say it does) and the outcome was g) For maintaining the authority and impar- essary and proportionate. The prison should that the judges decided the law had taken a tiality of the judiciary; or take into consideration any changes of circum- ‘wrong turn’ in 1984 in the case of R v Chan h) For the protection of the rights and freedoms stances since the decision was made. Win Su because successive case law was rely- of any person. ing on ‘foresight’ (knowledge of what someone To appeal a decision to place you on closed else may or might do) rather than the defend- Dillex Solicitors The PSI describes closed visits as ‘an admin- visits you can use the internal prison com- ants’ intentions. However, they also included Specialist in Prison Law istrative measure, not a punishment’. This plaints system. Governors should make sure in their judgement that even though individu- means that you can be put on closed visits that appeals are resolved within a month of als have been convicted using the wrong law & even if you have not been charged at an adju- the closed visits being applied. it does not give you an automatic right to go Criminal Defence dication with smuggling prohibited items back to the Court of Appeal, or indeed have a through a visit. It says that closed visits can be If you need more information, Prisoners’ Advice retrial, unless you could prove that a ‘substan- Matters ‘applied using evidence which equates to a Service (PAS) have produced a detailed and tial injustice’ had occurred. Appeals (All convictions & Sentences) “balance of probabilities” rather than the “be- very useful Self-Help Toolkit on this subject - if CCRC & Judicial Reviews yond reasonable doubt” test for adjudications’. you would like a copy of this please contact us JENGbA believe that over three decades of and we will be happy to send it to you. wrong law being applied in UK courts is obvi- Parole, Adjudication When deciding whether or not to put someone ously substantially unjust and clearly innocent Recall & Re-categorisation on closed visits, the prison should be able to people have been convicted for crimes they Police Station/Crown/ show that they: simply did not foresee or intend. If you are You can contact the Prison Reform Trust’s advice Magistrate Court Representations a) Have taken into account all the individual team at FREEPOST ND6125 London EC1B 1PN. reading this and not sure whether joint enter- circumstances of the case; Our free information line is open 3.30pm- prise was used, consider if several defendants Confiscation/Forfeiture b) Have acted proportionately; and 5.30pm on Monday and Thursday, and were in the dock, and it very likely was, but c) Have kept the requirement for the closed 10.30am-12.30pm on Wednesday. The number the prosecutors also use language like ‘para- Do Not Hesitate To Contact Lucy Today visit under review. is 0808 802 0060 and does not need to be put sitic accessorial liability’, or ‘conditional in- Dillex Solicitors on your pin. tent’, or if you are from a BAME or working-class 107b Ripple Rd, Barking IG11 7NY They must also consider the following; Please note, the above article focusses on prisons background, the ‘gang’ narrative will have TEL: 02085913351 • Type of prohibited item suspected of being in England and Wales and may not apply been used to tar each defendant with the same (24H) 07572086247 smuggled and the threat it poses to the elsewhere. brush. 36 Information www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

Advertorial experienced officers make it Keeping Safe difficult to build and maintain What is a trade for tax purposes? trusting relationships. One woman said: ‘If someone needs to talk not to be told Cellstudy™ in association with the Tax Academy™ Women Keeping Safe “later, sorry no time, too busy” prisoners and over 40 health - this can make someone feel- Paul Retout cial motive for trading. and justice professionals were ing low even worse.’ Mental discussed with the Prisons healthcare and treatment for It should be noted that where the motive lying Juliet Lyon CBE Minister, presented to gover- addictions still do not meet The reason behind this article is that I realised behind the transaction is to obtain a tax advan- nors and profiled on the BBC. acceptable standards in all there was very little guidance on the meaning tage this would not be a trading transaction. prisons. Far too many women Women in prison are particu- Senior officials drew up an of the word ‘trade’ for tax purposes other than are released without adequate larly vulnerable. The facts action plan based on our rec- the Taxes Act (S989 ITA 2007 and S1119 CTA) Illegal trades support - leading to a quick speak for themselves: almost ommendations and those that states ‘trade’ includes any ‘venture in the I thought it would be interesting to summarise return to addiction, crime and half (46%) of the women in made by the Prisons and nature of trade’. what the HMRC Business Manual states about custody. One woman told the custody have attempted sui- Probation Ombudsman. the taxation of illegal activities: There is only IAP: ‘How can you prioritise cide at some point in their lives In April 2017, HMRC introduced the ‘trading a limited amount of guidance from the courts your physical or mental health compared to a fifth (21%) of Some changes were made. All allowance’ allowing taxpayers to make small on the type of illegal activities that amount to when you have nowhere to men in prison and six per cent women’s prisons have a family amounts of money from their hobby. Even where a trade: sleep, no job, no support net- of the general population. support worker. Most, but not HMRC consider the activities of the hobby to work and £46 in your Ministry of Justice figures all, women’s prisons have in- form a ‘trade’, taxpayers can earn up to £1000 • Smuggling alcohol for sale is a trade (Lindsay, pocket?’ show that over half (53%) of cell telephones. Given the tax-free. But once again HMRC does not define Woodward & Hiscox v CIR [1932] 18TC43). all women prisoners have ex- stress of transfer the IAP ad- what a ‘trade’ is. And what about the promised perienced emotional, physical vised that pin-phone numbers, • Operating illegal gaming machines is a trade focus on prevention? A sus- or sexual abuse compared to previously security cleared, The HMRC Business Income Manual states that (Mann v Nash [1932] 16TC523). tainable network of women’s just over a quarter (27%) of should be maintained and not ‘broadly a ‘trade’ can be taken to refer to oper- centres has yet to be estab- male prisoners. Inspectorate stripped down. The Prison ations of a commercial kind by which the trader In addition, there are also a number of state- lished. Use of community men- reports reveal that more than Service responded that ‘all provides to customers for reward some kind of ments made in various court cases as follows: tal health treatment require- two thirds (67%) of women women’s prisons have been goods or services’. ments is a pitiful one per cent reported that they had a men- asked to ensure that this is • Drug dealing is a trade (Lord Sands in Lindsay, of all community sentences. tal health problem compared standard practice.’ Women There is clearly very little statutory help - leaving Woodward & Hiscox v CIR [1932]. There is growing evidence of with over two-fifths (43%) of recommended access to 24 the courts to provide guidance. courts using bleak prisons as men. hour freephone, National • Burglary or housebreaking is not a trade (Lord Domestic Violence Hotline. All ‘places of safety’ instead of In 1955, a Royal Commission was created to Denning, in J P Harrison (Watford) Ltd v Griffiths mental health beds and secure In March 2017, the Independent women’s prisons have now analyse the volume of existing case law on the [1962]. 40TC281; Lord Sands in Lindsay, healthcare. Monitoring the Advisory Panel on Deaths in been asked to make this num- subject and to identify the ‘badges’ of trade. Woodward & Hiscox v CIR [1932] and Finlay J situation is not enough. Custody (IAP) reported on ber available on the pin-phone in Southern v AB [1933]. what over 100 experts say system and advertise it by Badges of trade phones and at induction. needs to happen to prevent Juliet Lyon is Chair of the In most cases you would think that identifying • Receiving stolen goods may be a trade the deaths of women in prison. Independent Advisory Panel a trade was obvious, but from my own experi- (Denman J in Partridge v Mallandine [1886]). Findings and recommenda- There is still much to do. Low ence this is often not the case. This is particularly on Deaths in Custody (IAP) tions made by 60 women staffing levels and loss of relevant for a taxpayer where the transaction There is little supporting reasoning to these could be subject for instance to income tax at statements, the view being expressed as if it 40% under a trade or 18% as a capital gain. was self-evident. THE LEADING TAX SUPPORT SERVICE IN PRISONS

The ‘badges’ of trade in my view should not be The HMRC Business Manual continues: Pure looked at individually but rather collectively crime (extortion or burglary) does not involve DO YOU HAVE... and even then, should not see them as the de- the commercial acquisition and provision of finitive identifiers of a trade. goods or services. TAX DEBT? Subject matter - generally an asset purchased Selling controlled drugs and smuggling goods for investment will have an income yield or for sale (as opposed to personal consumption) TAX PENALTIES? provide the purchaser with personal enjoyment may well involve the commercial acquisition by virtue of ownership. However, where an and provision of goods or services. TAX RETURNS asset is bought in quantities for resale and then subsequently sold, a trading position (‘trade’) From my experience, HMRC will review each OUTSTANDING? is established. individual case to decide whether to assess the illegal activity for tax. Supplementary work - where the asset pur- DOES THE TAXMAN chased is subject to enhancement to make it Have your tax affairs in order pre-release WORKED IN THE more saleable, this is indication of a trading Remember to contact The Tax Academy CIC to OWE YOU MONEY? activity. A classic car purchased and enhanced review your tax affairs to ensure they are up- CONSTRUCTION by an individual and subsequently sold will be to-date. There is nothing worse than being re- Free Four Year Tax Review exempt from taxes. However, the continual leased from prison and finding that you have acquisition and sale of classic cars would be tax penalties and tax debt that need to be re- INDUSTRY? Include as much information as possible: deemed to be a trading activity. solved with HMRC. • Prison/Prison number Do you need to file a TaX Return? • Your full name including middle name Number and frequency of transactions - in Please contact Paul Retout from The Tax CIS (tax deducted 20%/30%) work including: • Your date of birth general the longer the asset is held the more Academy CIC on 01824 704535 or write to him: • Dry lining • National insurance number likely it is to be indicative of a capital invest- The Tax Academy CIC, Unit 4 Ffordd Yr Onnen, • Labouring • Employment history ment. Regular purchases and sales within a Lon Parcwr Business Park, Ruthin, Denbighshire • Scaffolding • Contact address/number on the outside short period of time would be indicative of a LL15 1NJ. • Bricklaying Please advise if you change Prisons trading activity. • Painting after responding. Circumstances of sale - assets may be sold on a regular basis simply to provide a source of Paul Retout is a Tax Specialist and Tax Author THE TAX ACADEMY CIC 01824 704535 funds and assets that are acquired for resale Unit 4, Ffordd yr Onnen, Lon Parcwr Business Park [email protected] and, due to market conditions, are difficult to The Tax Academy CIC is the leading provider of Ruthin, Denbighshire LL15 1NJ sell and are retained until such time they can tax support in prisons be sold. Therefore, the circumstances and in- tention of the sale are important. FREE completion and filing of Tax Returns (including mutiple years) FREE appeals against Tax Penalties. FREE Tax Debt resolution. Motive - quite simply there must be a commer- // Through the gate

Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Information 37 2019’s top ten distance learning courses revealed

plans: “I have a good feeling where my career is heading… I am going to work my socks off making sure I get there and achieve my goals.”

7. Understanding Substance Misuse Level 3 In 2019 we helped people in Certificate (2018: 77th)/ 41 students (2018: 6) A new entry on the list, NCC Home Learning’s prison start just over 1,700 course moves up an impressive 70 places. This courses across 200 different course helps students develop their under- standing of issues around and possible re- subjects and levels, from sponses to substance misuse, including a unit GCSEs and vocational stud- that shines a light on alcohol and drug use amongst young people. ies to the start of degrees. 8. Nutrition for Physical Activity - Level 3 Read on to discover last (2018: 7th) / 38 students (2018: 41) year’s ‘movers and shakers’ The sports nutrition sector is booming and as we reveal the ten most PET’s students are making the most of the op- portunity to get involved. Units on this HFE popular courses of 2019. course include healthy eating guidelines, weight management, and how to design a nu- 1. Open University People, Work and Society trition programme. Access module (2018: 1st) / 137 students (2018: 120) 3. Business Start-Up (2018: 5th) / 54 students 5. Creative Writing (2018: 11th) / 46 students 10 (joint). Construction Technologies Theory (2018: 54) (2018: 33) In total, we funded 281 students to start an - Level 3 (2018: 11th) / 34 students (2018: 30) Open University Access Module in 2019, giving Moving up two places, NEC’s course takes the Just under 50 students started our two Creative Ella, in her 20s, explained to us why she set- them the chance to try out degree-level study. third spot in 2019’s list. The course is designed Writing courses in 2019. The Writers Bureau’s tled on this Study House course: “I need a With three different modules on offer, People, to guide students through the process of set- course explores style, presentation, copyright, career on the outside that’ll keep me on my Work and Society again proved most ting up a business - from creating a business and how to sell your writing. NEC’s course feet... I know I’m a very hands-on person and popular. plan to choosing premises and developing meanwhile looks at writing in different styles, that’s where I’m most successful.” strategies. from poetry to playwriting, as well as giving 2. Open University Science, Technology and students a go at writing non-fiction. 10 (joint). NEBOSH Level 2 Health and Safety Maths Access module (2018: 2nd) / 113 stu- 4. Gym Instructing - Passport to Level 2 Cer- at Work Award (2018: 84th) / 34 students dents (2018: 115) tificate (2018: 3rd) / 52 students (2018: 66) 6. Plumbing Installation Level 2 Theory (2018: 5) (2018: 6th) / 43 students (2018: 45) Planning to start a degree in Business Manage- The first step towards becoming a personal ATM Safety’s course is the final new entry in ment, Diane, 35, began our second most pop- trainer, HFE’s course covers all the bases of Holding onto sixth place, Learn Plumbing’s our top ten, flying up the list from 84th place ular course last year. She told us she wants to working in the industry - with units exploring course lays the groundwork for progressing to - this year’s highest climber. Providing core ‘set down some new foundations’ and ‘move lifestyle management, anatomy and physiol- the NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing. Ben, a father of health and safety knowledge, this qualifica- on’ with her life, and believes that studying ogy, and providing a positive customer three, plans to start a business fitting bath- tion is in great demand across a range of will ‘open new doors to a new career’. experience. rooms and kitchens. He wrote to us about his industries. Ofsted Annual Report: a concerning picture of prison education

Not enough help to find work Leadership and management these establishments. on release the poorest performing Six prisons and YOIs were Leadership and management So, what would PET like to downgraded to inadequate were the poorest performing happen? We would like to see this year. In these, inspectors areas. Ofsted highlight that more engagement in educa- senior teams had often not tion, a greater number of found that there were too few prioritised education and had learner voice councils, and Course Notes activity spaces for prisoner not acted on recommenda- prisoner mentors used to sup- learners, the curriculum was tions from the last inspection. port others to learn. Provision not suitable, and there was PET funds a wide range of Recurring problems with pris- should be more varied, with distance learning courses. not enough careers guidance oner attendance were not students able to study To apply, you will need to: on offer. managed effectively. high-quality courses at levels that meet their needs and Only one prison, HMP Askham support their self-develop- l Be serving your sentence PET Head of Policy Francesca Cooney re- Employability is supposed to in a prison in England or be an important part of the Grange (an open prison for ment, further learning, or women), was judged as ‘out- Wales; sponds to the Ofsted Annual Report, which government’s strategy to sup- employment prospects. standing’. With exceptional Lastly, achievements should l Have at least six months paints a concerning picture of prison educa- port prisoners. However, Of- links with employers, good be recorded and recognised, left to serve; tion - with many prisons still not showing sted note that in many of their l Have gained Level 2 progression plans for learners, to support motivation, build inspections, prisoners do not English (literacy); enough signs of improvement and courses that meet most of confidence and improve the receive enough help to find l Some courses also require the learners’ needs, the chances of employment on Level 2 Maths (numeracy). Ofsted, the government de- Number of prisoner learners work on release, with many prison actually received Ofst- release. partment responsible for in- remains low neither gaining vocational ed’s highest score in all areas. If you would like any advice specting education, children’s Shockingly, Ofsted also state qualifications nor having a We would love to hear your about which course to services and skills, have in- that the number of prisoner record of what they have What needs to change? thoughts on Ofsted’s findings. study or for more informa- spected 45 prisons over the learners in level 2 courses learnt to show employers. Of- While it is inspiring to read We will share what we learn about the education offered to through social media and on tion about how to apply, course of the year from Sep- during 2017/18 was the sec- sted also say that not enough ond lowest since 2012. Num- women there, the fact remains our website. All contributions write to us at FREEPOST, tember 2018 to August 2019. prisoners have access to the bers of learners in level 3 that education in 60% of pris- will be anonymised unless Prisoners’ Education Trust. Only 38% were judged as secure intranet system for You can also speak to your courses also remain low: the ons was judged not to be good requested otherwise. Please ‘good’, with 44% ‘requiring prisons, the Virtual Campus, prison’s Education figure given is 200 but as the enough. Action is urgently send your thoughts to: FREE- improvement’ and 16% to look for jobs or to take Department. data is rounded up, it could be needed to support education POST, Prisoners’ Education deemed ‘inadequate’. even lower. courses. and speed up progress in Trust. 38 Information www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 The Inspector Calls Criminal Justice damages Inside Time highlights areas of good and bad practice from the Russell Webster misbehaviour. So, which is it? average, in delinquency from The study draws on a nation- age 12 to age 18. most recent Reports published by HM Inspectorate of Prisons ally representative sample of New research by Ryan Motz, • On average, individuals more than 2,000 British ado- Doctoral student, Criminal who had been issued an ASBO lescent twins from the Envi- Justice at the University of showed a 2.751 point increase ronmental Risk (E-Risk) Cincinnati, Ohio, and col- in delinquency from age 12 to Longitudinal Twin Study to leagues seeks to settle the age 18 than did those who had perform a robust test of the dispute between those who not been issued an ASBO. argue that we should divert deterrence versus labelling young people from the crimi- question. The brilliance of • Finally, individuals who nal justice system and those this powerful research design had a criminal record showed proposing that swift sanc- is that twins can serve as the a 1.065 point increase in de- tions and a deterrent ap- counterfactual for their co- linquency from age 12 to age proach are more effective. twin, thereby ruling out many 18 than did those who did not sources of confounding that have a record. HMP Wormwood Scrubs HMP Wealstun have likely impacted prior A local prison and a designated resettle- Category C adult training and resettlement The purpose of the study studies. Conclusion ment prison holding adult men and some prison for men Does contact with the justice The pattern of findings pro- young adults system deter or promote fu- Unannounced Inspection: 15-25 October 2019 ture delinquency? Results Findings vides support for labelling Unannounced Inspection: 16 September - 4 Published: 13 February 2020 from a longitudinal study of The study sought to answer theory, showing that contact October 2019 Published: 11 February 2020 three key questions: with the justice system - Safety: Not sufficiently good British adolescent twins is through spending a night in Safety: Not sufficiently good Respect: Good neatly summarised in the ab- 1. Does spending a night in jail/prison, being issued an Respect: Reasonably good Purposeful Activity: Not sufficiently good stract, reproduced below: jail or prison increase or de- anti-social behaviour order Purposeful Activity: Not sufficiently good Resettlement: Reasonably good crease delinquency? (ASBO), or having an official Resettlement: Not sufficiently good What impact does formal 2. Does being issued an anti- record - promotes delin- “Ready availability of drugs undermining punishment have on antiso- cial conduct - does it deter or social behaviour order (ASBO) quency. This is a particularly “Impressive, though fragile, improvement” good work” promote it? The findings from increase or decrease important conclusion at a a long line of research on the delinquency? time when justice systems on At the last inspection in 2017 the prison was This new report says that Wealstun presented labelling tradition indicate both sides of the Atlantic are assessed as poor in safety and rehabilitation a contrasting picture of good work undermined 3. Does having an official formal punishments have the threatening to crack down on and release planning and not sufficiently good by significant weaknesses, particularly the fail- crime record increase or de- opposite of intended conse- crime and criminals. for respect and purposeful activity. At this in- ure to tackle drugs. It was part of the ‘10 Prison crease delinquency? quence of promoting future spection safety and release work had improved Project’ set up in August 2018 by then Prisons misbehaviour. In another to ‘not sufficiently good’. Purposeful activity Minister Rory Stewart, eventually getting a body The research found that: body of work, the results remained the same and respect was now rea- scanner and other technology to keep drugs show support for deter- • Spending a night in jail or Russell Webster’s blog can be sonably good. out. The report says that although the project rence-based hypotheses that prison is associated with a found at www.russellwebster. had been set up in August 2018, support at a punishment deters future 2.396 point increase, on com HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Peter Clarke said: local level had not materialised until March “Clearly there remains much to do to ensure 2019, and it could well be that the longer-term that Wormwood Scrubs delivers acceptable benefits of the project have yet to be felt. outcomes consistently for those detained … It is much improved from the inspection of 2017. The positive impact of technology and physical At that time, we found a prison that could only security improvements was compromised by be described accurately as being in a state of the lack of an effective drugs strategy. Until such crisis.” time as there is a comprehensive action plan in place, that not only requires an effective Much was now being done to make the prison response to intelligence but is also proactive in Wrongly convicted safer, though this work was often not sufficient- seeking out incoming supply routes, the harms of a crime? ly embedded to have yet made enough differ- caused by the ready availability of drugs will ence to outcomes. Over a third of prisoners still not be reduced. At the last inspection (2015) it reported feeling unsafe and recorded violence was found to be ‘reasonably good’ in all areas had increased, although there were fewer seri- but has slipped back. Peter Clarke said the latest ous incidents than at comparable prisons. There inspection, “showed there had been a decline in was some evidence that the use of illicit drugs safety and purposeful activity, in which we found Lost your appeal? was reducing, although the oversight and de- that outcomes were now insufficiently good.” livery of drug testing, and the coordination of a wider drug strategy, needed to improve. The report noted that psychoactive substances remained a serious problem and 200 of the 211 Since 2017 there had been four self-inflicted ambulance callouts to the prison in the six deaths and one homicide. Some recommenda- months before the inspection were PS-related. What next? tions made by the Prisons and Probation Clarke said: “The ready availability of illicit Ombudsman following its investigations into drugs undermined much of what the prison deaths were still outstanding, and the prison was trying to achieve… 69% of prisoners told had been too slow to address this area of risk. us it was easy to obtain drugs, and nearly a Since the beginning of 2019, however, work to quarter of all prisoners said they had acquired ensure the safety of those at risk of self-harm a drug habit since entering the jail - a remarkable The CCRC can look again had improved markedly. figure given the short time that many prisoners If you think your conviction or sentence is wrong stayed there.” apply to the CCRC The prison was more respectful with generally • It won’t cost anything satisfactory staff-prisoner relationships and Summing up, Clarke says: “Overall, we judged • Your sentence can’t be increased if you apply interaction. The prison environment and the that outcomes in our respect test were good, • You don't need a lawyer to apply, but a good one quality and cleanliness of cells were much im- our highest grade, and that is to the credit of can help proved, although some cells were still overcrowd- the establishment, given the challenges they ed. Time out of cell remained inadequate, with face in so many areas. I have little doubt that You can get some more information and a copy of the nearly 40% of prisoners locked up during the if the key areas of illicit drug supply and failure CCRC's Easy Read application form by writing to us at working day. Clarke says: “Enough activity was to assess risks were to be addressed, Wealstun 5 St Philip’s Place, Birmingham, B3 2PW. or calling 0121 233 1473 theoretically available, sufficient for all prisoners could recover from the decline in grades since Prisoners in Scotland should contact; The Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission, 5th Floor, to have at least part-time activity, but attendance the last inspection, and indeed move on to better Portland House, 17 Renfi eld Street, Glasgow, G2 5AH. Phone: 0141 270 7030 Email: [email protected] was too often poor, especially in education.” serve the needs of its prisoners.” Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Legal 39

Advertorial Can I have a solicitor? standard of proof in an adju- lenged so if you are found Prisoners appearing before dication is the same as in with a mobile phone on your the Independent Adjudicator criminal proceedings before person or in your cell it is are entitled to legal rep- a court - this being that the important that you seek legal Adjudications resentation should they wish adjudicator must be sure that advice. for it. This should normally be the offence has taken place on Adjudications should be taken seriously as they can have a sig- arranged before the appear- the evidence heard during the I’ve been in a fight, should I hearing. If a prisoner is con- nificant impact upon you during your time in custody. This arti- ance before the judge but in plead guilty? certain circumstances the victed a conduct report, set- Issues such as self-defence cle aims to provide some guidance to those subject to discipli- judge will grant an adjourn- ting out any previous findings can arise before the adjudica- nary action, and provide some examples of offences which a ment so that a solicitor can be of guilt before an adjudicator tor, just as they can before the arranged. This is at the dis- and general information on criminal courts. Adjudicators prisoner can be accused of during their time in custody. cretion of the judge. A solici- compliance during the sen- can impose significant pun- tor can consider the allega- tence, will be read out. The ishments for fighting and as a prisoner or solicitor will then Kiran Mohammed to check this form as it will gation by the police including tion against you, take your result legal advice should be be able to mitigate the cir- contain the details of the an interview under caution instructions and represent sought where possible. The cumstances of the offence or alleged breach; such as the and potential proceedings you before the Independent circumstances of the fight can What is an adjudication? any other relevant matter that time and place the incident before a court. The Governor Adjudicator. be very different from case to If a prisoner is alleged to have was said to have taken place will normally deal with less can assist the adjudicator case but the guidelines pro- breached a Prison Rule they and which rule has been serious matters, with more before passing sentence. Adjudications which remain vide three examples of seri- can receive an adjudication, allegedly breached. The nick- serious matters being referred before the Governor are dif- ousness on which a prisoner also known as a ‘nicking’. PSI ing sheet will also contain the to the police or to the What punishment can I be ferent. There is no right to can be sentenced. These 47/2011 sets out the prison name of the officer reporting Independent Adjudicator. legal representation as the given? range from a fight with some- rules and provides guidance the offence, often referred to Governor does not have the There are a range of sentences one within the prison, a fight on the adjudication process. as the reporting officer. This An Independent Adjudicator ability to impose additional available to the Governor and involving multiple partici- PSI 47/2011 is available to form must be issued within is a District Judge. They attend days onto your sentence. the judge. Matters dealt with pants and a fight which is prisoners and a copy should 48 hours of the offence being at the prison to deal with Prisoners appearing before by the judge generally attract considered to be a serious and be kept in the prison library. discovered, unless there are more serious allegations of the judge can make a request additional days but the judge sustained attack. Each has a A finding of guilt at an adju- exceptional circumstances. ill-discipline. If the prisoner to the Governor for legal rep- does have the power to different sentencing range dication can result in a pun- has been referred to the resentation or what is known impose punishments availa- which increases depending ishment being imposed. It Once a prisoner has been Independent Adjudicator, as a ‘McKenzie Friend’. A ble to the Governor. There are on the seriousness of that can also have an adverse given a nicking sheet the they must appear before them McKenzie Friend is someone guidelines which are used by incident. effect on applications for Governor should be informed within 28 days. The who provides support and the judge in determining how Home Detention Curfew, and hear the case within 24 Independent Adjudicator has advice but does not actively many days, if any, should be Why should I have a solicitor? Re-Categorisation and Parole. hours. The Governor has var- the power to impose addition- represent the prisoner at the imposed as a punishment. As Those facing adjudications ious options, including deal- al days onto the sentence of hearing. Any request for rep- in the criminal courts, some face the potential for signifi- What’s the process? ing with the case themselves, the prisoner, subject to the resentation or a McKenzie of the sentences imposed by cant punishments to be Once a prisoner has allegedly referring the matter to the sentence that prisoner is serv- Friend is made to the adjudicators, including addi- breached a Prison Rule they imposed. Proven adjudica- police or referring the matter ing and the stage at which Governor and will be consid- tional days, can be suspend- will be given a form called a tions will remain on a prison- to the Independent Adjudicator. they are within that sentence. ered in accordance with what ed. This means that the pun- DIS1, commonly known as a er’s record and can be consid- Matters referred to the police The judge can impose up to 42 are known as the Tarrant ishment does not become ‘nicking sheet’. It is important ered at a later stage should a could lead to further investi- days for an offence. Principles. The Principles active unless a further offence prisoner be seeking a move to include issues such as the is committed during the peri- a less secure prison or release complexity of the case, the od of suspension. capacity of the prisoner, the into the community. It is important to seek legal seriousness of the charge and Other punishments available advice, where available, as fairness. include loss of canteen, cellu- arguments can be put for- lar confinement and loss of ward to have matters against Legal aid is available for privileges. These punish- you dismissed. Prisons are those appearing before the ments, amongst others can be under an obligation to ensure Independent Adjudicator and found within the PSI 47/2011. that the PSI is followed and those prisoners who appear As in criminal proceedings, before the Governor and are that paperwork is completed should you enter a guilty plea granted legal assistance. appropriately and accurately. at an early opportunity you Any breaches of the PSI could are entitled to credit for that What happens at the hearing? potentially lead to the matter guilty plea which acts to At the adjudication hearing being dismissed, at which reduce your sentence. the charge will be read out to point no punishment is given. the prisoner and the prisoner Failing that, a solicitor can I’ve been caught with a Our open, friendly solicitors working will be asked to enter a plea assist in the cross-examina- mobile phone, what could of ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’. If a tion of the reporting officer happen? in Criminal Defence will help you with all prisoner enters a not guilty and witnesses, the obtaining A mobile telephone is an plea, the adjudicator will hear of information from defence unauthorised article and pos- aspects of Prison Law including: evidence of the offence from witnesses and the advance of session of one within the pris- the reporting officer and any legal arguments - much like Licence recall • Adjudications on is unlawful. The prison other witnesses who can give in a criminal trial. evidence on the issue/s in can refer such offences out to Parole hearings • IPP queries the police for consideration question. The prisoner or Should you require any assis- and should you be charged their legal representative will tance regarding adjudica- Judicial review • Sentence planning issues and found guilty of such an be given the opportunity to tions or require representa- offence you can receive up to ask questions of the reporting tion before an Independent 2 years’ imprisonment. officer and the witnesses. Adjudicator please contact Call us on 0121 752 9350 Should the matter remain Once that evidence has been our Prison Law department at within the prison the punish- or visit www.hinesolicitors.com heard, the prisoner and any Hine Solicitors on: 0121 752 ment which can be imposed defence witnesses will be 9350 or FREEPOST - RTZU - varies; dependent on the invited to give evidence so GXKA - KSXG Hine Solicitors, nature of the phone. Smart Prison Law department that their version of events 558 Walsall Road, Great Barr, phones and camera phones can be put forward. Birmingham B42 1LR . FREEPOST RTZU–GXKA–KSXG attract larger sentences than Hine Solicitors | 558 Walsall Road Once all the evidence has basic mobile phones. At the Great Barr | Birmingham | B42 1LR been heard, the adjudicator hearing, issues such as Kiran Mohammed is a solici- will decide if the prisoner is knowledge and control of the tor in the Prison Law depart- guilty or not guilty. The mobile phone can be chal- ment at Hine Solicitors. 40 Legal www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

Advertorial The Section 16 statement is prepared by the Prosecution and sets out to what extent you Facing POCA have benefitted from your criminality and what is available to pay off this amount. It therefore consists of 2 separate figures; namely proceedings the benefit figure and the available amount. The benefit figure is made up of two distinct SOLICITORS calculations; namely the Particular Criminal wellsburcombe - ACT NOW! Conduct and the statutory assumptions - which is probably the most important figure in the whole proceedings. Helen Lynch It is impossible in such a brief article to set out how this figure is calculated and why it is so If you are a new prisoner, and just starting your important, however I cannot stress enough sentence for a drug related or financial crime, how vital it is that this figure is challenged it is highly likely that you are now facing Pro- properly and thoroughly, and this is done so ceeds Of Crime Act (POCA) proceedings. If this within the Section 17 statement which is your is the case, you need to act now by ensuring document in response to the Section 16 and that you are represented by a firm of solicitors sets out your case in full. with a dedicated and specialist POCA Department. The Section 17 statement requires a huge POLICE INVESTIGATIONS COURT PROCEEDINGS amount of preparation and should be very In my experience, POCA proceedings are often detailed, in which you address every aspect of seen as far more complex than the index of- the Crown’s case, but more importantly in ac- l Are you about to be interviewed l Have you received a postal fence and require a very different approach to cordance with case law should have ‘clear and by the Police? requisition? defending them, because a confiscation order cogent’ documentation to back up any of the can have far more serious consequences than statements made. For example, it is not enough l Facing the prospect of fresh l Have you been charged with your current custodial sentence itself and can for you to say that certain monies are not the charges? new offences? impact on a person for the rest of their life. proceeds of crime but were earned legiti- mately. You have to go beyond this and prove l Want to avoid an additional l Do you have a hearing coming POCA is a very specialist and niche area of law it with documentary evidence, all of which has sentence? up and need representation? and it is therefore vital that you instruct a spe- to be included in your Section 17 statement. cialist lawyer. Here at Blackfords LLP there is Again, it is impossible to explain the nuances l Waiting for the Police to make l Are your current lawyers doing a dedicated POCA team who can guide you of a Section 17 statement within this article, a decision on potential fresh enough to help? through this complicated process to get the but suffice to say I will do everything to prove charges? very best result for you. Each of us has been your case and prepare a detailed Section 17 l Do you face POCA proceedings? ranked in both Legal 500 and Chambers and statement along with all the necessary witness l Concerned over Police delays in Partners for our expertise in this area. statements, valuations, expert reports if nec- making a decision? essary; so that when the matter goes to the At your sentence hearing it is likely that a final POCA hearing your case is fully l Had no update from your Solicitor? POCA timetable was fixed with several orders prepared. being made that certain documents have to be l Been recalled and worried about served on various dates. It is likely that at this Our Section 17 statements have been praised being charged with new offences? stage no detailed explanation will have been highly by both Counsel and the Courts and the given to you about these documents, so I will team will work tirelessly and diligently to en- now attempt to explain the basics of the sure that any final order made can be paid by proceedings. you to avoid a default sentence.

In simple terms, the proceedings involve 3 It is possible to obtain a transfer of legal aid documents - namely a Section 18 statement, a from your trial solicitors but the sooner the Section 16 statement, and a Section 17 better as the court is less likely to make a trans- APPEALS statement. fer order once the pocket proceedings are under way - so I would suggest that you contact l Do you feel your sentence is too The Section 18 statement is a declaration of me as a matter of urgency so that we can dis- long? assets and is based on a pro-forma question- cuss representing you. naire provided by the Court in which you have l Do you disagree with your Lawyers to answer a number of questions about em- About the author Helen Lynch: I have recently about not lodging an appeal? ployment history and bank accounts etc. and joined Blackfords LLP, a firm I have aspired to PRISON LAW sets out what your current assets are. Although work for these past 8 years. I am an executive l Wrongly convicted? it is an important document, it is nowhere near committee member of Proceeds of Crime Law- l Due for parole? as important as the Sections 16 and 17. yers Association (POCLA) proceedings. l Concerned about disclosure l Been recalled? failures? l Due for a category A review l Let down at trial by your legal team? l Suffered parole delays that We are delighted to welcome Helen Lynch to our POCA team who l Do you feel you have grounds offer Specialist services in the following areas: you feel you should be compensated for? to appeal? • Thorough and diligent defence of main POCA Contact Helen at the proceedings address below: • Section 22 applications (Crown application to Blackfords LLP 15 Old Bailey, LEGAL AID / PRIVATE REPRESENTATION / NATIONWIDE SERVICE increase the available amount) London, EC4M 7EF • Section 23 applications (Defence application 0208 686 6232 / 07985 248 643 Herts, Beds, Bucks, Essex London & Thames Valley, Appointment only to reduce the available amount) www.blackfords.com Kent, Surrey • Section 11 applications (Extending time [email protected] 5 Holywell Hill, St Albans, 4 Britannia Court, The Green 13 Halstead Road, to pay) Hertfordshire AL1 1EU. West Drayton, Middlesex Wanstead, • Section 10a applications (Defence application Tel: 01727 840900 UB7 7PN. Tel: 01895 449288 London E11 2AY. to include 3rd party interests in properties) • Enforcement proceedings (Crown application to impose the default sentence) www.wellsburcombe.co.uk Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Legal 41

Advertorial prosecution are now under time constraints. cution to go to a third party agency and obtain There is no middle ground - either there is fair the material that is needed to make these sorts of Defence Statements disclosure or there isn’t, and if it’s the latter there points. cannot be a fair trial and if there cannot be a fair trial then the Court must adjourn or stop the case. Sadly, the Crown cannot always be relied upon to The critical document the Court will look at when get disclosure right. Following some high profile The right approach in complex cases considering whether the disclosure requests are disclosure debacles in rape cases, the Attorney properly founded is the DS. General produced his ‘Review of the Efficiency HMRC, a tax scam designed to rip-off the public and Effectiveness of Disclosure’ in November purse? These scenarios are frequent enough and Third party agencies 2018. It called for a ‘cultural change’ so that the investigators duty to focus on reasonable lines of Jonathan Lennon usually most of the factual background will not Investigators will frequently have to liaise with be in issue, what is in issue is something a lot enquiry took much more priority than it present- and Aziz Rahman third party agencies before charge. In the case of more nebulous than whether X did something or X (above) the agency concerned may be, for exam- ly does - this goes right back to the training. not; the issue will be dishonesty. Advancing the ple, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It may defence case by maximising prosecution disclo- be that the defendant will have engaged with that In short, as always, the key is early preparation. Any article about Defence Statements necessari- sure, when the real issue is the honesty/integrity body at length pre-charge and that body may have The drafting of the DS may very well end up being ly involves dealing generally with disclosure. All of the defendant, requires a very careful approach expertise about the issue in hand that the police/ the single most important piece of work that the of the official guidance documents and all of the to the drafting of the DS. HMRC just do not have, or may know more about, defence have to undertake; it requires judgment important case-law on the topic refer to one leading e.g. where the FCA has been looking into a sus- and expertise. case - it is the seminal case on disclosure and Public In such circumstances an early consideration of pected pension fraud using its civil powers. Interest Immunity (PII); R v H & C [2004] 2 Cr. App. why the Crown’s central theory is flawed is impor- Jonathan Lennon is a Barrister specialising in seri- R 179. The authors represented ‘H’ in that case. tant; i.e. ‘defending by attacking’. For example, Agencies like the FCA will often hand over very if a financial advisor has been running an invest- sizeable digital files of material to the prosecutors ous and complex criminal defence cases at The CPIA 1996 ment scheme which HMRC suspect to be a tax - of which only a portion is used in the case. This Carmelite Chambers, London. He has extensive The Criminal Prosecution & Investigations Act dodge then a central question for the defence is fine - so long as there is a proper MG6C detailing experience in all aspects of financial and serious 1996 (CPIA) sets out the framework for prosecu- might well be why an alternative theory is not more what remains; if there isn’t one - it should be crime and the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. He is tion and defence disclosure in criminal litigation. plausible - e.g. that the defendant himself has requested. Equally, the FCA, in our example, may ranked by Chambers & Ptnrs specialist POCA and The Act is the starting point and then there is the been duped and did not know the real nature of hold information which might help show that X Financial Crime sections as a ‘leading barrister’; Code of Practice (“COP”) made under it. After R v the scheme. This in turn will lead onto disclosure was not the sort of candidate that they the regu- …’he is capable of grasping issues at short notice H & C the Attorney General issued his own of material tending to show that others who were lator was really interested in. despite voluminous and complex obstacles.’ ‘His ‘Guidelines’ in 2005 and there have been numer- also involved, but not charged, performed a sim- easy-going manner makes him popular with cli- ous other guidance documents since; including ilar role to the defendant, or that others appear to For example, the FCA may have investigated a ents and juries. This is backed up with real deter- be more likely candidates for the criminal role. The Lord Justice Gross’ Review of Disclosure in number of pension scams but centred their inves- mination’. (2019). September 2011 which led to a re-writing of the disclosure may include, e.g. email correspond- tigations, not on those actually selling the Attorney General’s Guidelines on Disclosure (see ence between other persons revealing discussions schemes but on those who created the off-shore Aziz Rahman is a Solicitor-Advocate and Partner December 2013 edition). At ‘AG’s Guidelines’ fre- about an aspect of the fraud where X is neither bank accounts etc, as they were the ones that at the leading Criminal Defence firm Rahman quently arise in arguments about the quality of named nor included when he perhaps should be could be demonstrated to have acted dishonestly. disclosure in large cases. if what the Crown were alleging was true. A number of small points like that can help build Ravelli Solicitors, specialising in Human Rights, the defence case. Financial Crime and Large Scale Conspiracies/ Section 6A of the Act deals with the contents of It will be seen then that, in reality, it is usually Serious crime. Rahman Ravelli are members of the Defence Statement (DS). The DS must set out; the position that the more complex the case the When drafting the DS it must be borne in mind the Specialist Fraud Panel and have recently been the nature of the accused’s defence, including any simpler the issues become - e.g. knowledge and there are duties under the COP to pursue … ‘all ranked by Legal 500 as an ‘excellent’ firm with particular defences upon which he intends to rely; dishonesty - but the more difficult the disclosure reasonable lines of enquiry’… this is critical. A Aziz Rahman being described as ‘first class and the matters of fact on which he takes issue with is around those issues. defendant might well be able to force the prose- very experienced’. the prosecution - and why; particulars of the mat- ters of fact which he intends to rely on in his Digital material defence; any points of law which he wishes to A classic example of this is when investigators raise and also notification of the details of any have seized numerous computers and discs etc. defence witnesses sought to be relied upon by the Most of that digital material will be ‘unused’, but A leading firm defence (s6C). The degree of detail now required it is in the ‘used’ material that the defence will in a Defence Statement is much more so than was find hidden gems. There must then be a thorough offering the originally the practice when the Act first came mechanism so the defence at least know what the into force. In R v Bryant [2005] EWCA Crim 2079 prosecution have - even if it’s not disclosed. strongest legal the Court of Appeal was critical of a Statement that consisted merely of a generalised denial of This is usually done with a schedule of unused representation guilt accompanied by a statement that the defend- material - basically a list of items arising from the ant took issue with any witness giving evidence investigation that are not part of the formal evi- to those being to the contrary - this was said to be ‘woefully dence in the case. The list is called an MG6C. The inadequate’. defence can ask for items from the MG6C which investigated may, or may not, lead to the prosecution agreeing The problem for a defendant is that getting it to disclose those items, depending on relevance or prosecuted wrong may not only lead to cross-examination - which will depend on the contents of the DS. about why he is saying something ‘different’ to in serious and the jury than he put in writing, but it can have a There have been significant problems with a num- huge impact on what disclosure will be given by ber of prosecutions where vast amounts of mate- complex crime cases. the prosecution. rial have been seized by the investigators. How does the Crown go about listing the unused dig- Issues arising in complex cases ital material? The answer lies in the AG’s The issue that most frequently arises in long and Guidelines, which incorporates the Gross complex cases is disclosure of “unused” material Review’s findings. Explaining how this works in held by the prosecution - in other words the mate- detail is impossible in this short article but the rial the investigators have obtained but are not upshot is that the defence can (and should) • Specialists in defending cases • Expertise in arguing admissibility of using to support their case. engage with the prosecution about how the Crown involving large-scale police operations. evidence, abuse of process, disclosure should examine the computers that have been and public interest immunity. By s3 of the Act the prosecution must; “disclose seized - e.g. use of key search words etc. This can • Experienced defenders in Regulation to the accused any prosecution material which has present opportunities for the defence and a cer- of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) • Our reputation ensures the very best not been previously disclosed to the accused and tain amount of tactical consideration will certain- cases involving informants, undercover experts represent our clients. which might reasonably be considered capable of ly apply. So, for example, if the prosecution per- police, surveillance and interception of undermining the case for the prosecution against sists with refusals to conduct perfectly proper communications. • We have helped shape the law. the accused, or of assisting the case for the requests to examine a computer for a certain key accused.” In deciding what material passes this word, or look for a certain category of document, test, the prosecution consider the DS. So in a sim- then a marker can be laid down with the Court Roma House, 59 Pellon 36 Whitefriars 3 Brindley Place, ple case if defendant X says it was B that stabbed that the defence are concerned about the disclo- Lane, Halifax, West Street, London, Birmingham, West A, not X, then any material tending to suggest that sure process. There will be a point at which com- Yorkshire HX1 5BE EC4Y 8BQ Midlands, B1 2JB B was at the scene of the crime, or has a history plaint can be made to the Court and, so long as Tel: 01422 346666 Tel: 0203 947 1539 Tel: 0121 206 2287 of violence must be disclosed to X. But what if X the disclosure request is well-founded, it is diffi- is not charged with GBH? What if he is charged cult for the Court not to order the prosecution to www.rahmanravelli.co.uk / [email protected] Nationwide Service with involvement in a conspiracy to defraud case comply. That puts the Crown under pressure - involving a complex scheme that is, according to especially if the refusals go back months and the 42 Legal // Q&A Insidetime March 2020

Q I was caught importing Credit of up to one-third is In relation to cases analogous the credit you would have re- the Bail Act offence should run ecstasy tablets. All I was available for a guilty plea. The to supply, the Guideline says ceived for your guilty plea. The concurrently with that sen- doing was selling them to sentencing bracket is usually that: “Where the defendant is current Sentencing Guideline tence, rather than consecutive mates and taking some my- largely determined by the dependent on or has a propen- on reduction in sentence for a to it as would ordinarily have self. I’ve never been in bother quantity of drugs involved, but sity to misuse drugs and there guilty plea says: “Consistent been the case. with the police. Do I have to very small importations (in the is sufficient prospect of success, with the stated purpose of the go to prison? Is there any- case of ecstasy, 20 tablets is a community order with a drug guidelines, there is still value Q Is a Judge allowed to pre- thing that could keep me out cited in the Guideline) fall to rehabilitation requirement in the encouragement of those vent me contacting my wife of prison? be determined on the same under section 209 of the who are going to plead guilty as a result of a Sexual Harm basis as the equivalent offence Criminal Justice Act 2003 can to do so, even if the earliest Prevention Order even A The Court of Appeal recently of possession or supply (de- be a proper alternative to a point possible is as late as the though I never committed said that: “…It is, however, in- pending on intent). It follows short or moderate length cus- day of trial, or by reference to the any offences against her? Sentencing escapable that where a person that very small shipments can todial sentence.” outcome of a Newton hearing…” fall outside the Guideline and imports and deals in Class A A The Order can’t contain a justify a non-custodial The current approach of the Answers are kindly drugs over a prolonged period, This part of the Guideline is prohibition like that unless sentence. Court of Appeal seems to be provided by: Jason Elliott, even if he is a person of positive geared towards the imposition there is evidence that she was that, where the arguments ad- a barrister at Jason Elliott good character with every ex- of a drug rehabilitation order at risk of sexual harm. The In cases that fall within the vanced at a Newton hearing Associates Ltd, a barrister pectation of good behaviour in with a community order. It’s Court of Appeal’s approach to are rejected in their entirety, led entity specialising in future, an immediate prison Guideline for importation, a aimed at cases where drugs the issue is : “In our view, there the available credit should be Prison Law and Criminal sentence of some length is al- number of factors are listed as are supplied to others in order is force in Mr Elliott’s submis- 1 in the region of 5%, with slight- Appeals. most always the outcome.” reducing seriousness. These to feed an addiction rather sion. The only evidence before ly more credit available if the include lack of sophistication; than typical cases of social us of the appellant’s treatment The availability of drugs for involvement due to pressure, supply where the dealing argument advanced is partial- Answers to readers’ legal 2 of KH and MH as it emerged at intimidation or coercion fall- funds recreational use. ly successful. queries are given on a strictly purchase online has resulted trial was his violent and con- ing short of duress; mistaken without liability basis. If you in more cases of small scale, trolling behaviour. Based upon belief regarding the type of So, although the Court of Q I breached my bail by fail- propose acting upon any of unsophisticated importation. this, the judge was fully entitled drug; an isolated incident; low Appeal have said that prison ing to surrender to Court. My the opinions that appear, you Many of those falling to be to conclude they were at risk of purity; remorse; good charac- is almost inevitable, the reality barrister says that because I must first take legal advice. sentenced in these cases have physical or psychological harm no previous convictions re- ter and / or exemplary con- is that sentencing in cases like missed the hearing I can’t get from the appellant, but we have duct; steps taken to address yours is very specific and the full credit if I plead guilty Send your Sentencing Query corded against them. Pre- seen no material from which he addiction or offending behav- possibility still exists to sus- now. Is she correct? (concise and clearly marked sentence reports should be could have concluded they were iour; serious medical condi- pend a prison sentence. ‘Sentencing Query’) to: requested in such cases. The at risk of sexual harm. We bear Inside Time, Botley Mills, Courts have no power to sus- tions, mental disorder or learn- A The Court of Appeal dealt in mind paragraph 7 of R v Botley, Southampton, pend a sentence of more than ing disability; and age and / Q I’m guilty of some of the with a similar situation recent- Smith and Others which under- 3 Hampshire SO30 2GB. 2 years, so personal mitigation or lack of maturity. stuff I’ve been charged with ly. They said that the first lines that there must be a real, is massively important. but not all of it. I’ve heard a lot stage was to determine credit not a remote risk of such harm 4 For a prompt response, Potentially, a combination of about Newton hearings, and for the guilty plea to the main following.” readers are asked to send The sentencing guideline for these factors, together with people seem to think they’re offence. In that case, they their queries on white paper the importation of Class A full credit for a timely guilty a bad idea. Are they right? agreed with the trial Judge’s 1. Attorney General v Peck [2020] using black ink or typed if drugs lists a sentencing range plea, could result in a sentence assessment of 25% (as op- EWCA Crim 147 [51] 2. see for instance R v Reid [2020] possible. from 3 years 6 months to 16 that falls below 2 years and is A Contrary to popular rumour, posed to 33%). In order to years, but this relates to sen- EWCA Crim 120 therefore capable of being Newton hearings don’t neces- avoid double counting, they 3. R v Turner [2020] EWCA Crim 160 tences imposed after a trial. suspended. sarily result in the loss of all agreed that the sentence for 4. R v JJ [2020] EWCA Crim 115 Specialists in Prison Law

• Cat A Reviews • Pre-tariff Reviews • Adjudications • Recall • Sentence Calculation • Re-categorisation • HDC • Parole

0151 200 4071 63 Hamilton S quare Birkenhead Wirral C H41 5J F solicitors Insidetime March 2020 ‘Legal’, Inside Time, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire SO30 2GB. Legal // Q&A 43

SP HMP Dartmoor His solicitors, as a matter of reasons which may link to the in custody for the protection at: Prisons and Probation

precaution, invited ITV to circumstances surrounding of the public. This can be as- Ombudsman, PO Box 70769, Q Do prisoners have any rights delay the broadcasting of its the alleged breach of SOPO - sessed either by paper evi- London SE1P 4XY. You should over their ‘story’ appearing drama pending the High Court despite you not being found dence, by way of representa- set out your concerns in a de- on television crime docu- case. Therefore it is best to guilty of the offence. When tions from your solicitor, or at tailed letter as it is likely that mentaries, even if they are await the conclusion of your assessing risk, Probation will an oral hearing where live the Ombudsman will respond appealing their conviction? appeal. I hope this assists you. look at numerous things, in- evidence is taken. We strongly to you directly in writing. If the cluding behaviours whilst in advise that you contact your Ombudsman thinks you were Response by AGI Criminal A There is no prohibition on the community. solicitors to discuss the cir- not treated in the right way, Solicitors you to take your story to the cumstances of your recall and they may ask the governor to press or television. You have In order to challenge your re- any directed/updated reports change their decision or rec- DC HMP Stafford rights over your own story, call and apply for re-release from your Probation officers, ommend changes to the head Prison Law & however I would advise you to you will need to apply via the as these may provide you with of the Prison Service. Q Why am I still in custody err on the side of caution as to Parole Board. You can apply further information regarding Compensation despite being found not having an article published or for release on the papers or to their concerns and your risk. If you are not happy with the guilty of a further offence? having a programme aired on convene an oral hearing where outcome from the Response by Hine Solicitors Hine Solicitors television until the conclusion evidence can be taken by your- Ombudsman, you are entitled Stevens Solicitors of your appeal. It is recom- A In circumstances where there self and the professionals in- to initiate court proceedings, Michael Jefferies Injury is an allegation made against Anon HMP Bristol mended that once the appeal volved in your case. This will but first we would advise that Lawyers has concluded, to take your you when you are on licence allow a discussion to take place Q If suing the prison you send a pre-action letter to Kesar & Co story to the press, be that news- your risk is heightened, there- to address the licence condi- Healthcare, on my own, to the prison setting out what you AGI Criminal Solicitors paper or television. fore the reason for your recall tions you were said to have whom do I address the writ? are claiming for and give them would be that your risk is no breached and future manage- a reasonable time scale in Answers to readers’ legal In the case of Jeremy Bamber longer manageable in the ment of risk. Your solicitors which to respond and settle queries are given on a and the infamous White House community. may have submitted rep- A If you are not satisfied with the claim with you or face lit- strictly without liability Farm scandal, as a point of resentations to the Parole the way the prison has handled igation. You should enclose basis. If you propose acting reference his solicitors have Although you had been charged Board on your behalf. It should your complaint, you may wish copies of evidence to support upon any of the opinions released a statement that with an offence, albeit not con- be noted that further rep- to contact the Prisons and your claim (e.g. COMP1 and 1A that appear, you must first around 8th January 2020, ITV victed of the offence at the time resentations can be submitted Probation Ombudsman. The forms) with a view to encour- take legal advice. was to schedule and broadcast recall was initiated, it was be- at any time to deal with any Ombudsman does not work for aging the prison to settle the lieved that you had committed the prison. The Ombudsman Send your Prison Law a drama based on the case of issues or to request release on claim. If you are not happy Bamber and what happened a further offence and thus your the papers should your cir- will investigate complaints with the response to the Query (concise and clearly risk had escalated. Any con- from prisoners about their marked ‘Prison Law Query’) at White House Farm. cumstances change. pre-action letter, you can pro- cerns relating to risk escalat- management, supervision, ceed with issuing a claim. If to: David Wells, Solicitor ing is sufficient enough for care and treatment. The c/o Inside Time, Botley Bamber’s solicitors had invited In conclusion, you remain con- the claim is for a sum of money, ITV to postpone the broadcast Probation to recall you should fined to custody due to your Ombudsman will only look at you will need to submit a N1 Mills, Botley, Southampton, they believe it has made your your complaint if you have first Hampshire SO30 2GB. of this series whilst matters of risk needing to be assessed by Claim Form to the County Court an appeal were resolved in the risk no longer manageable. the Parole Board given that exhausted the internal com- Money Claims Centre, PO Box For a prompt response, High Court, as this would place executive release was unsuc- plaints procedure and it is less 527, M5 0BY. Their telephone readers are asked to send their a fictitious narrative in the pub- Now that you have been found cessful. The Parole Board than three months since you number is 0300 123 1372. This queries on white paper using lic domain which may be coun- not guilty of the allegation, needs to assess whether your had a response to the final stage number is active on all prison- black ink or typed if possible. ter-productive to the adminis- your risk may still be assessed risk can be managed in the of your complaint. ers’ pin-phone accounts. tration of justice in due course. as too high to be managed in community and whether you Response by AGI Criminal the community for various no longer need to be confined You can write to the Ombudsman Solicitors

Craig’s Story...

Craig was at risk of losing everything when the courts asserted an available amount of £700,000 to be paid, from interest in a property, shares in a company and hidden assets. But further to successful arguments advanced by Crown Defence Solicitors, Craig received a nominal order of £1. £93,000 Craig retained his legitimate income and assets. TO CONTACT CROWN TODAY WE HAVE SAVED OVER 1/2 BILLION FOR OUR CLIENTS. W£e c8an0 h3elp you with: Prison Law Advice & Representation | Criminal Defence & Appeals | Confiscation & POCA | Immigration Contact: 0178 587 8000 Email: [email protected] Freepost: Crown Solicitors Web: crowndefence.com QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Jefferies Solicitors is a specialist Make a formal complaint in writing Q. I was in a prison van being Q. I was involved in an accident before I personal injury law firm dedicated on a COMP1 and ask to see the safety transported to another prison when the came to prison. Can I still pursue a claim to helping you with accident officer as soon as possible. Keep all van reversed and hit a bollard in the and how do I go about it? secure reception area for prisoners. I claims, personal injury, industrial copies of any complaints or other paperwork. This is very important; if was thrown back against the cubicle, diseases and medical negligence A. Yes, provided your accident occurred you are attacked it will be the only way but the drivers weren’t interested when within the last three years you may still compensation claims, including to prove that the prison was aware of another prisoner and I told them we be able to make a claim. claims that have arisen from an the threat to you. Prison staff would not were injured. I reported it upon arrival incident in prison. be able to deny that they were aware of at HMP Leeds and they noted it down. I have been having shooting pains down the threats made towards you; instead, You should contact a solicitor who my back for over 5 weeks now. I don’t If you have suffered an accident or they would have to show the steps they specialises in personal injury and they know exactly what happened or the injury on the road, had an accident took to protect you. will take the relevant information details of the van and don’t know if I or injury in a public place, been from you and provide you with advice can claim or not but have been going to regarding pursuing a claim. injured as a result of medical Q. Following an injury in prison, I was healthcare for painkillers. malpractice or negligence or had advised to seek healthcare attention work-related accident while in and after applying to see the GP I was A. You can claim for any injury as long Q. When I was playing football, I told I would be put onto the waiting prison, the expert solicitors at as you can prove that the accident injured my foot in a tackle. I received list. After several months of suffering Jefferies can help you. occurred and your injury is down to the no treatment for my fractured 5th from ongoing pain I am still awaiting an accident. It is good that you reported Metatarsal. It was only x-rayed and appointment. I wish to make a claim. If you have been injured while in the injury when you arrived at your diagnosed 6 months later. I should have prison, contact our specialist injury new prison because this means there at least been put in a protective boot A. In order to succeed with claims for is a log of the accident. You should lawyers to find out if you have whilst they did their investigations. My delay of treatment we must be able continue to obtain medical treatment foot is now deformed and more painful grounds to claim. to prove that firstly, Healthcare is if you feel you need it, but it is also important to gather as much evidence than it could have been if it had been Write to us at Jefferies Solicitors aware of your injury and secondly, that treatment is required urgently to avoid as possible in relation to the incident treated. I have been told I may need an Limited, The Triangle, 8 Cross Street, further injury. The most successful way itself. Speak to the other inmate who operation in the future. Can I make a Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 1EQ. of proving this is to keep a copy of was injured if you know where he is. claim? any complaint forms or applications Obtain his details for your solicitors to write to. Contact an injury lawyer about submitted to the prison and to keep a A. It appears as though you had a Q. Some of my inmates have been your claim as soon as possible once copy of their response. Unfortunately, fracture which was missed. It would threatening me and I’m very worried you realise you’ve been injured so that different prisons use different systems that I am going to be attacked. I’ve told CCTV can be requested of the accident have been apparent to a Doctor that to book appointments and sometimes a wing officer about the threats but he area (it may already be too late for there was a point of tenderness at the obtaining copies of these documents hasn’t done anything about it and has this). Ultimately, the prison van driver site and a fracture should have been once they have been submitted said that he’ll keep an eye on it. Is there should have logged the accident, but investigated. It is likely that with proper is difficult. However, in order to anything else that I can do? they may not have. If they did not, you investigation, your foot fracture would successfully allege a negligent delay in will need as much evidence as possible have been diagnosed and immobilised A. With these situations, prisons have treatment we require all the evidence to prove the accident occurred. Write and would have gone on to heal procedures to follow. The wing officer we can. We also recommend that down exactly what happened and when uneventfully. It certainly sounds like should have recorded all threats under any verbal complaint made to prison and write descriptions of the driver and their violence reduction strategy staff or healthcare staff is followed guard that you remember and send something you could claim for and we documentation, it is not enough for up in writing so that the complaint is this to your solicitors to help with their would be happy to help you with here them to simply “keep an eye on it”. documented. investigations. at Jefferies.

Call: 0161 925 4155 I Click: jefferiessolicitors.com I Email: [email protected] The Triangle 8 Cross Street Altrincham Cheshire WA14 1EQ

Crossword Answers

E C Down Across GFOR

1 Carbon fibre sections fitted onto the 1 the physical structure, including the bones,

SIS V

T S A L L A

monocoque flesh, and organs, of a person B E 2 Allow the driver to adjust the wing between BRAKE

4 The study of airflow over and around an two pre-determined settings from the cockpit L

3 An area of track separated from the start/ object CAD

8 The method used to design F1 cars TY finish straight by a wall CHA 4 The inside line around a corner at which 9 An interruption of continuity or uniformity

drivers aim their cars

PEX UTO YWOR

10 Weights fixed around the car to maximise T

S C I M A N Y ROD E 5 A device that uses heat and pressure to A

its balance

‘cure’ carbon fibre

O

11 A physical force equivalent to one unit of P

6 Form a soft contact with the road BODY 7 Main part of a racing car to which the gravity that is multiplied during rapid DR engine and suspension are attached changes of direction or velocity

InsideTime_March_Q&A.indd 1 21/02/2020 09:14 compensation for medical negligence After healthcare failed to diagnose Dave’s wrist injury, he experienced prolonged pain and needed surgery. Our lawyers secured him £35,000.

Dave injured his wrist while playing football. He visited healthcare 3 times over 2 months because he was in significant pain. It was not until the third appointment that he was referred for x-rays and a fracture was diagnosed. Because healthcare failed to correctly examine Dave’s wrist and diagnose his wrist fracture on two occasions, he experienced extended pain and suffering and ultimately required wrist surgery. After working with the medical negligence team at Prison Injury Lawyers Dave received £35,000.

“We understand prisoners and prison injury claims. We are the UK’s leading Prison Injury Lawyers and will fight for what you deserve.”

At Prison Injury Lawyers, we can help you claim for:

 Dental negligence  Workplace accidents  Bunk bed falls  Medical negligence  Burns  Transport accidents  Slips, trips and falls  Assaults  Accidents in the gym

0800 808 9577 I prisoninjurylawyers.co.uk I [email protected] I The Triangle 8 Cross Street Altrincham Cheshire WA14 1EQ Prison Injury Lawyers is a trading name of Jefferies Solicitors Limited

InsideTime_March_PIL.indd 1 20/02/2020 09:55 46 Jailbreak www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 Reading Group Start your day with CFO3 Our weekly ‘CFO3 Spotlight’ feature is a longer segment Round-Up where we hear from the peo- ple delivering, or benefiting Promoting reading and reading from, CFO3 projects around the country. Our first Spot- groups in prisons light featured Bill Spiby and Kate Dugdale who are in- Reports from two groups this month: tion at superior offi cers whose bad decisions put pilots and planes at risk, and one member volved in the management of HMP Maidstone on The Chimp CFO3 delivery, and they ex- Paradox by Prof Steve Peters and talked about his own experience of ‘lions led by donkeys’ in the Royal Canadian Air Force. plained what CFO3 is and how views from HMP High Down about it can support people in Roald Dahl’s Going Solo. For the second part of the session the group prison. looked at poems. First Louis MacNeice’s The full title of Steve Peters’ ‘Prayer Before Birth’. He wrote it during the Each week will feature a dif- book makes bold claims: Second World War and in the voice of an ferent CFO3 Spotlight inter- Anthony and Porridge: “Large portions please!” The Chimp Paradox: The Mind unborn child in the womb. It presents a terri- view featuring practitioners, Management Programme for fying world from the perspective of the most facilitators and service users Confidence, Success and helpless being imaginable. The poem struck a ‘Porridge’ is National Prison Radio’s daily to gain their perspectives and Happiness. He is a consult- chord and members teased out the possibilities breakfast show. It broadcasts Monday to Fri- highlight the benefits of par- ticipating in a CFO3 lead ant psychiatrist who has of tricky bits: day from 7-8am, and it’s sponsored by CFO3. worked closely with the course or programme. Hear- I am not yet born; rehearse me. In the parts I British cycling team and is In this month’s Inside Time, the man behind ing people share their experi- must play and the cues I must take when old described by Victoria ences gives another men lecture me, bureaucrats hector me, moun- the show talks about what it takes to create Pendleton as ‘the most important person in my perspective and provides con- tains frown at me, lovers laugh at me… Let them the greatest breakfast show in the world. career’. After the 2012 Olympics he was text for those listening and not make me a stone and let them not spill me. appointed by UK Athletics to work with high wondering if the programmes Otherwise kill me. Porridge is supported by performance athletes across the range. He has are really for them. Hearing also advised Liverpool FC and the England team. CFO3, which is a programme from someone in a similar po- Why ‘bureaucrats hector me’? Perhaps the feel- that receives funding from sition to them allows listeners ing that unless the speaker can exercise some Each chapter of the book explains diff erent Europe to help people in to feel connected and hear a individuality and integrity, and unless there’s aspects of the way we think and how to use prison who face a range of genuine account of the bene- some hope in the world, he might as well be My name is Anthony this understanding to increase confidence, barriers. CFO3 are a sector of fits of the CFO3 killed before he’s born. and I work for the reduce anxiety and feel more in control of your the Ministry of Justice and programmes. Prison Radio Association. I’m emotions. It also includes mental exercises to provide support in various To fi nish, it was back to Roald Dahl and the a radio producer and pre- reinforce the techniques he suggests. HMP establishments and rollicking ‘Television’, a brilliant protest The benefit of CFO3 being on senter on the world’s first community locations across against the mind-numbing eff ects on children Porridge is that it is the first According to Peters, our psychological make- daily breakfast show for pris- England. Talking about CF03 of TV …‘That nauseating, foul, unclean/repul- thing NPR listeners will hear up has three components: the Chimp, the oners, Porridge! My role in- on Porridge gives us an op- sive television screen’. This rang a bell for in the mornings, often before Human and the Computer. The Chimp is our volves structuring a daily portunity to look at the work members trying to read in cramped shared their cells are opened for free- instinctual self and is quick to receive and act show and working with peo- taking place across the prison cells and everyone enjoyed the celebration of flow. Listeners will become on stimuli with fl ight, fi ght or freeze responses. ple serving time in HMP Brix- books instead: estate, specifically targeted well-informed about their op- This speed is a great asset but decisions and ton to create an upbeat, towards vulnerable and mar- tions and may use the day actions also need input from our Human com- Such wondrous, fi ne, fantastic tales energetic, entertaining and ginalised groups. The aim is ahead to talk to their key ponent, which brings rationality and judge- Of dragons, gypsies, queens, and whales informative daily show with to increase awareness of the worker or landing officers to ment. The combination produces the best out- And treasure isles, and distant shores a variety of music. We focus many different ways in which get themselves onto a CFO3 comes but these need to be reinforced with Where smugglers rowed with muffl ed oars, on getting our listeners to feel people can take part in CFO3 programme if they are practice, so they become ‘mindsets’ wired into And pirates wearing purple pants, prepared to take on the day programmes and courses de- eligible. the Computer part of our brain. And sailing ships and elephants, ahead. signed to support their devel- And cannibals crouching ‘round the pot’, opment both in prison and in For people new to prison, and Stirring away at something hot. The Maidstone group loved it and were full of But we also provide practical the community upon people looking for further high praise… ‘The focus on thinking skills and (It smells so good, what can it be? ways listeners can use their release. support, Porridge is a great Good gracious, it’s Penelope.) how to manage your actions - amazing!’ ‘One time in prison to address resource for them to under- of the most insightful books I’ve ever read’. ‘I some of the issues that led Every day on Porridge we stand what’s taking place in recommend it to the world!’ There was a gen- them to prison, as well as ex- focus on a specific prison in other prisons as well as the eral feeling that the book has the power to help If your prison doesn’t have a reading group, ploring ways of looking after prison they’re in. You can prisoners change their lives and one member encourage your librarian to look at the Prison the country which has CFO3 yourself during your sen- hear about the eligibility cri- went even further: Reading Groups website www.prisonreading- courses to provide support for tence. One of the ways we teria, the location of pro- groups.org.uk. those in prison. We dedicate inform listeners about taking grammes, the type of ‘Everyone inside should read The Chimp time to highlight the work care of themselves is through programmes available and Paradox, discuss it and then have their sentence that happens behind bars. ‘Wellness Wednesdays’ on also what support is available reduced by a day. It really encourages prisoners CFO3 activities are delivered Porridge. Once a week, the in the community upon to read and refl ect - such a life-changing book’. TurningPages by different people in differ- show is themed around self- ent prisons, and you might release. care and wellbeing. The Then something completely Prisoners who can read know them as Achieve, APM, different at High Down. music chosen for this show is Ixion or Shaw Trust. An ex- Porridge is a great opportu- Most of us know Roald Dahl teach prisoners who can’t designed to motivate and en- ample is the work happening nity to hear upbeat music, courage listeners to take their horoscope readings, shout- as the author of brilliant If you would like more information on in HMP Liverpool: own wellbeing into their outs and the Thought for the children’s books: Charlie how to become involved, as either a hands. The ‘Thought for the Day, all designed to get listen- and the Chocolate Factory, Mentor or a Learner, contact the Reading CF03 case managers based Day’ slot is chosen to inspire ers pumped and ready for the Matilda, The Witches, The Plan Lead in your prison (ask a Shannon in HMP Liverpool work with our listeners to see new per- day ahead! Listen out for fu- Twits - and many more. He Trust Mentor who this is) or write to: people in prison on a one-to- ture shows featuring informa- also wrote about his own Shannon Trust, Freepost RUAU-LAHR-JGZH spectives in regards to their one basis or in groups to im- tion about CFO3 and how you extraordinary life. Going Solo is the second Studio 1.15, Edinburgh House, Kennington sentence, using a quote cho- prove life skills such as can get signed up! part of his life story, following on from Boy and Lane, Lambeth, London SE11 5DP sen to help you think about confidence and self-esteem, tracing his adventures in Africa and as an RAF your situation and how you problem solving, team work- fighter pilot in the Second World War. The can take control and think ing and further guidance on group enjoyed the vivid descriptions of dog- more positively about your money management and Porridge is on NPR Monday to ShannonTrust Friday from 7am-8am. If you fights in the air and managing to escape options. accommodation support. despite the danger. Dahl writes of his frustra- miss it, it’s repeated at 11am. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Jailbreak 47 On this day… March 1918 Behind the gate The life and infamous times of Britain’s prisons: this month HMP Isis

done to address their concerns and they spend most days locked in their cells.” Noel Smith HMCIP did, however, praise the prison’s work on resettlement services, low drug use and support of prisoners at risk from self-harm. He HM Prison Isis is a Category C male young said the governor and staff were working hard offenders institution, located in the to establish a positive culture and secure envi- Thamesmead area of the Royal Borough of ronment and added that he was confi dent they Greenwich in South-East London. Situated on would continue to build on the progress made. the same site as HMP Belmarsh it is operated by Her Majesty’s Prison Service. Up until relatively recently there were a lot of “Viruses can strike at any time.” gang members and activity at the prison, with Built by a private company called Interserve prisoner-on-prisoner assaults a regular occur- in May 2009, Isis was built to Category B secu- rence, which was reported by the BBC, but in rity specifi cations on underused land within recent years this has diminished. Spanish Flu Pandemic! the perimeter wall of HMP Belmarsh. The whole Belmarsh site is located on land that HMYOI Isis holds male inmates under the age used to house the Royal Arsenal. During con- Inside Time reporter of 25 in a mixture of single and double cells struction work for the prison the grounds had According to historian Alfred After the lethal second wave over two houseblocks. The prison also has a to be evacuated when contractors discovered W Crosby, the virus first ap- struck in late 1918, new cases central activities centre, which houses a learn- a World War II unexploded bomb. Eventually Currently, it seems as though peared in Haskell County, dropped abruptly - almost to ing academy, segregation unit and PE acade- bomb disposal experts found that it was actu- we are at the mercy of any Kansas USA, where the first nothing after the peak in the my. Educational and vocational training is ally an empty shell-casing left over from the new illness or disease or pan- wave of the epidemic showed second wave. One explana- delivered in partnership with Kensington and old days of the Royal Arsenal. demic that pokes its ugly head up in 1917. The movement of tion for the rapid decline of Chelsea College. Courses include mechanics out of the ether. Aids, Sars, American troops to camps in the lethality of the disease is (motorbike repair), construction, waste man- The prison became operational in April 2010 Bird Flu and Swine Flu are France and other parts of Eu- that doctors got better at pre- agement, bicycle repair, barbering, catering, and opened its gates to the fi rst prisoner intake just some of the more recent rope helped to spread the dis- venting and treating the reprographics, broadcasting and media stud- soon aft er. In January 2012, an inspection by medical panics to have hit us, ease very quickly. Army pneumonia that developed ies, ESOL and job-related studies. and the Coronavirus is just camps were crowded with after the victims had con- Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons criti- cised faulty technology being used in the pris- the latest of these mutating soldiers from all over the US tracted the virus; but popular The most up-to-date report on the prison is on. They had a fi ngerprint-based roll-call sys- viruses to appear from seem- and the virus passed freely author John Barry stated in hopeful for the future. HMCIP Peter Clarke tem which was bedevilled by faults and oft en ingly nowhere and spread among them until breaking his book that researchers commented… around the globe. The discov- out and affecting soldiers have found no evidence to broke down. This meant that prisoners could not move around the prison until manual ery of antibiotics in the last from allied countries and support this. Another theory “Our assessments have remained largely checks were done. HMCIP stated - “For the century has assured a certain eventually even the enemy. holds that the 1918 virus mu- unchanged since the last inspection, although system to work, 100% of prisoners, 100% of amount of immunity up until The reason this virus was tated extremely rapidly to a this was not the whole story. We noted an the time had to leave an electronic thumbprint now, but because of their named the ‘Spanish Flu’ was less lethal strain. This is a encouraging change in direction since the when they went from one area of the prison to over-use, antibiotics are in- in order to maintain morale common occurrence with in- appointment of the current governor and the another and the system has to record every creasingly impotent against amongst the troops by not al- fluenza viruses: There is a culture and atmosphere in the prison were time. If one thumbprint failed to register, the newer viruses. The good news luding to the fact that it had tendency for pathogenic vi- defi nitely improving. We left the prison confi - roll-check did not tally and all prisoner move- is that a new ‘super’ antibiotic come from America. Newspa- ruses to become less lethal dent that the senior managers and staff ment halted - sometimes for hours - until a has recently been discovered pers were free to report the with time, as the hosts of would use our report to effect further positive manual check could be done.” and is undergoing trials to effects of the epidemic in neu- more dangerous strains tend change, particularly in those areas which test for its potency. But before tral Spain, thereby giving a to die out. caused us most concern.” antibiotics were discovered it false impression that Spain During HMCIP’s 5-day visit to the prison, Nick was not unusual for these vi- was particularly hard hit by Despite the high morbidity Hardwick, Chief Inspector at the time said - Peter Clarke CVO OBE QPM September 2018 ruses to kill millions of people. the flu. This led to it being and mortality rates that re- “Despite the progress it has made, it would be HM Chief Inspector of Prisons commonly called ‘the Span- sulted from the epidemic, the wrong to underestimate the formidable chal- Perhaps the most destructive ish Flu’. Spanish Flu began to fade lenges Isis still has to overcome.” He also com- Corrections and Clarifications of these viruses occurred in from public awareness over mented on poor staff /prisoner relationships 1918, just as the First World The only country not really the decades until the arrival which led to officers resorting to force too Behind the Gate February 2020: War was coming to an end. affected by this outbreak was of news about bird flu and quickly. Mr Hardwick added: “We found fright- HMP Oakwood Known as the ‘Spanish Influ- China, and this may be be- other pandemics in the 1990s ened prisoners refusing to move from the enza’ or Spanish Flu, for cause the Chinese population and 2000s. This has led some induction unit onto wings: little was being Following the publication of last months’ short, it was eventually re- already possessed acquired historians to label the Span- Behind the Gate we received correspondence sponsible for the deaths of up immunity to the flu virus due ish Flu a ‘forgotten The COPS Club from HMP Oakwood’s media team asking us to 100million people world- pandemic’. to having already survived a Cu s O for Peace and Strength to clarify and correct a number of points. We wide. The virus infected bad flu outbreak. When an quite rightly quoted the HMIP’s rather negative 500million people around the infected person sneezes or Which brings us to today’s Yoga for ex-prisoners report from 2013. However we should have world, or 27% of the then coughs, more than half a mil- pandemic - the Coronavirus. Breathe, stretch, relax and still your mind. If offset this with a more recent Inspector’s you’re due for release near Slough, you are world population of around lion virus particles can spread Luckily, the world is a very report describing the prison as “an impressive invited to free Yoga and meditation. Stay for a 1.8billion. This virus was so to those nearby. The close different place to what it was meal. A friendly welcome is waiting for you institution” - “with a story of steady and prevalent that it even affected quarters and massive troop in March 2018. Already the sustained improvement”. This time the people in the remote Pacific movements of WWI hastened Coronavirus is looking as Thursdays 11am Inspector credited an, “empowerment of islands and the Arctic, mak- the pandemic, and probably though it is mutating into a @ SHOC prisoners” through peer support as, “contrib- ing it one of the deadliest ep- both increased transmission less virulent strain and with The Quaker Meeting House uting to a culture of decency and respect” idemics in human history. and helped mutation. The War the great leaps we have made 74 Ragstone Road - and praised the prison’s director, John Slough Life expectancy in the USA may also have increased the in medical treatment since the SL1 2PX McLaughlin, for his “consistent, capable and dropped by around 12-years lethality of the virus. Some early part of the 20th century, courageous leadership”. We were also asked in the first year of the pan- speculate the soldiers’ im- it should be consigned to his- The COPS Club o ers a clean, friendly and safe to site the correct education provider as Novus, demic. Most flu outbreaks kill mune systems were weakened tory a lot quicker than the space for ex-prisoners to assist in improving not Milton Keynes College. Also the current the very young and the very by malnourishment, as well ‘Spanish’ flu. But, we should condence and respect for others and self operational capacity is 2,106 - not 2,500 or old, but the Spanish Flu out- as the stresses of combat and always remember that these condence through Yoga and meditation. Non 1,600. It is our policy to correct and clarify our judgmental and welcoming time here focuses break had a higher mortality chemical attacks, increasing viruses exist and can strike at on empowering people to re-join society. errors whenever we are made aware of them rate for young adults. their susceptibility. any time. and are happy to do so on this occasion. 48 Jailbreak www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

Cell Workout SARAH’S WORKOUT I start each running session 5. Jumping lunges with running drills, which 3. Inchworm often include some 10 reps x 4 sets 10 reps x 4 sets Rebuilding trust strength movements that Shoulder and core Leg plyometric move- are beneficial for most strength ments increase your Continuing guest pieces by an LJ Cell Workout graduate sports. Stand with feet shoulder power, balance and Warm up width apart, then bend at the speed, helping to im- hips and touch the floor with prove performance in miles tick by more quickly. runners and walkers a sense 1. ‘A Skip’ your fingertips. Keep your your sport of choice The structure of training mo- of community and motiva- (high knees / arm drives) legs straight but maintain a tivates me - crossing off ses- tion. There are now several of Start with a standard forward x 20 Each Side slight bend at the knees. sions and building up to a these available within pris- Slowly crawl forward with lunge. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, then take a goal mileage per week in ons in the UK and I would This sprint drill is a skip with your hands until you are in a big step forward and lower preparation for a race. love to start one up within a high knees. As you bring your plank position and then com- until both knees are bent at a prison in Kent. leg down, finish with a slight plete a push-up. Keep a flat 90° angle. From this position, I trained as an England Ath- pawing/scuffing motion as back position where your push explosively off the letics ‘Coach in Running Fit- Seeing people grow in confi- you pull backwards. Focus on upper back is in line with your ground, switching the posi- ness’ and started my running dence and self-esteem initiating that pull from the hips and heels. Perform a tions of your legs while air- group ‘Scrambled Leggs’ through running is one thing, glutes and the hamstrings. press up then crawl your way borne so that you land and which focuses on intervals, but the transformations I see This will ingrain the backward back to starting position by can immediately drop into hills and technique as I in my work with offenders is pulling motion important for following the same pathway another lunge but with the wanted to offer something a inspiring and a privilege to running propulsion into your and try to keep legs straight. opposite leg forwards. bit different to runners who observe. I work for a charity muscle memory. Use the Sarah Cronin want to improve their run- supporting people leaving same arm motion during this ning but don’t necessarily prison with addiction issues. drill as you use while running. I am a runner and running want to train within a club I meet one-to-one with HMP coach from Kent who is pas- environment where they residents and then go to see sionate about fitness and the might feel intimidated or their families on the outside impact it has on both our emo- under pressure. I wanted run- in the build-up to their re- tional and physical health. ners of all abilities to realise lease. The idea of this is to Running has always made me that interval training and get- support them with rebuilding feel good. Stress, worries and ting a little bit out of their trust, improving their rela- frustrations always disappear comfort zone can bring huge tionships and build on their or seem insignificant after benefits to both their physical strengths so they can change I’ve felt the rush of endor- fitness and their sense of the direction of their lives phins and the wind in my wellbeing. Completing 400m away from drugs and crime. hair. intervals on a track definitely A huge part of my support in- leaves you with a sense of ac- volves supporting people to 2. Squat thrust Marathons are my preferred complishment (and a burning start doing things to help 10 reps x 4 sets distance, but the process of set of lungs)! their mental health; and get- training is what I love the ting active is always some- Kick or step your legs back 6. Windscreen wipers most. The longer runs provide Parkrun - free, weekly timed thing I suggest. I hope to into a plank position. Jump or 10 reps x 4 sets a lot of time to process 5k runs (not races) every Sat- continue to help people both step your legs forward to a Core strength thoughts and conversely, the urday morning at 9am have in prison and in the commu- squat position and then back chit-chat and banter of run- become hugely popular nity to be the best version of to a plank position whilst ning in a group makes the across the nation and offer themselves. keeping a stable core. Start by lying on your back with your arms out to the side and then lift your legs straight up - now lower your legs to ASN LAW See our one side and immediately re- page in the turn to the top position. Now SOLICITORS lower your legs to the other Anthony Stokoe ‘Jailbreak’ section side. This side-to-side motion Rasheed Nujeerallee 4. Hollow/dish hold is like windshield wipers Independent Prison Law 30 seconds x 4 sets tracking from 9 o’clock to 3 Expert since 1994 THE PRISON Provides stability for o’clock and back again. ‘People Before Profit’ PHOENIX TRUST other activities such as Continuing the Fight and Challenge running and weightlifting Despite Legal Aid Cuts Head doing you in? Straight advice/representation Lay on your back with your for Male and Female Prisoners Stressed out? legs straight and your arms Can’t sleep? extended overhead. Lift your Adjudications Lifer/IPP Specialist shoulders, arms, and legs off Recall Parole Judicial Reviews Simple yoga and the floor. Keep your hands Mental Health Law Expert and heels as low to the meditation practice, ground as possible, while still Human Rights - European & International working with silence and the pressing your lower back into Cat A Reviews breath, might just transform ‘Obsessed is just a the floor. Maintain tight abs Pre-tariff Sift/Hearings word the lazy use to and glutes. It’s okay to bend your life in more ways than your knees if straight legs are Suite 8, Vine House, you think ... Interested? describe the too challenging. dedicated’ 143 London Road, Write to The Prison Phoenix Trust Russell Warren (cricketer) Kingston KT2 6NH P.O. Box 328, Oxford, OX2 7HF.

We’d love to hear from you anytime and have 020 8549 4282 several free books and CDs, which could Photography by Tommy NATIONWIDE SERVICE help you build and maintain a daily practice. Banham & Federico Gangemi Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Jailbreak 49

in HMP Nottingham for a year, and early last year Balanced and Focussed gained a Level 2 qualification in instructing studio The Prison Phoenix Trust cycling.

The Prison Phoenix Trust has a new 12-part yoga and meditation programme on National He said: “I was involved in a Prison Radio! It starts with prisoners and former prisoners in conversation about how the conversation with PE staff practice is helping them find freedom inside, before a 40 minute yoga and meditation session. and managers in reducing re- Tune in each Friday at 3 pm, or hear it repeated on Sunday at 8 am and again at 5 pm. Here, offending. They were wanting we feature one of the sequences from that programme, designed by Victoria who teaches at to deliver ‘spinning’ to staff HMP Grendon and leads taster workshops in prisons across the UK. During this session we’re and I said that I would love to going to explore balance using yoga positions which improve your concentration and develop be a part of this. The best strength, range of motion and stability. thing about it for me is getting Healthy option Warrior two to engage with staff members Mountain pose Warrior two is a classic yoga from around the establish- Stand tall and steady for pose which builds strength ment, which builds better five breaths. and stability and develops a relationships. Also, seeing calm steadiness in your mind. All in a spin! new faces come down based Five slow breaths each side. on positive feedback is per- Pedalling for confidence and sonally rewarding.” breaking down barriers Since they began in Novem- ber, the classes have proved Alternate nostril so popular that there are breathing Inside Time report plans to increase the schedule 1. Breathe in through the left to four per week. One partici- nostril, closing the right side It is a fitness craze that has pant, Deborah Sear- with your right thumb. Shoulder rolls taken Britain by storm. In son-Smith, the prison’s head gyms across the country, par- of reducing reoffending, said: Slowly circle your elbows Stretched flank 2. Breathe out through the ticipants pay up to £30 a ses- “Earl’s confidence has grown five times each way. Five slow breaths each side. right nostril, keeping the left sion for ‘spinning’ - working in his delivery to staff, it has nostril closed with your ring out on exercise bikes. It takes broken down barriers. I have and little fingers. a motivational instructor to had staff tell me how it doesn’t get the group working up a feel like prison, and impor- 3. Breathe in through the sweat and pushing through tantly it has supported their right nostril, keeping the left pain barriers. nostril closed. health plans. At HMP Nottingham, staff 4. Breathe out through the left make use of the prison gym Earl at work “My personal aims are being nostril, keeping the right equipment for their own free achieved and whilst these nostril closed with your lunchtime spinning classes. sessions feel ‘brutal’, it is Stork pose thumb. What’s unusual about the ses- Sessions last around 40 min- great to feel that I have been Tree in wind Use a chair or the wall to help sions is that the instructor is utes, including a warm-up pushed to my limit.” balance in this challenging This is 1 round. Try 5 rounds. Breathe out, leaning to the a prisoner - who came up with and cool-down. Exercises are pose, and hold your trouser Although you are controlling left. Breathe in and return to the idea himself. conducted to music, with the Earl hopes his classes could leg if you can’t reach the your breath, it should be riders pedalling in time to the the centre. Then breathe out be a springboard to a new ca- ankle. Five slow breaths each comfortable. Try not to hold, and lean to the right. Flow Earl, a gym orderly, runs two beat. The pace and intensity side. or snatch your breath. Notice reer in the fitness industry with the breath five times sessions a week, each at- varies, with moves such as how you feel after 5 rounds. after he is released in April. each side. tended by eight members of jumps, hill climbs, sprints You can repeat with 2 more staff in their gym kits. Around and ‘hovers’ selected to test He believes there is a wider rounds or rest your hands in 60 staff have taken part, in- cardiovascular fitness and lesson to be learned, which is your lap and sit for 5 minutes cluding officers, managers muscular endurance. that jails can benefit by mak- in meditation, simply aware and even governors and ing use of the skills and expe- of your breath, returning chaplains. Earl, in his forties, has been rience of prisoners. attention to the breath whenever it wanders off. NEW 2020 CATALOGUE #126 OUT NOW! 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Mum, you’re the best mum “A mother’s love for her ever and we love you more What are the child is like nothing else than anything. All our love in the world. It knows no origins of Brit, Dion, Tonya, Alisha law, no pity. It dares all Mother’s Day? and Taysha. x x x things and crushes down remorselessly all that The origins of Mothering “Youth fades; love stands in its path.” Sunday in the UK begin in droops; the leaves of Agatha Christie the Middle Ages, when friendship fall; A moth- children who had left their er’s secret hope outlives Remember wiping my bum? families to work in domestic them all.” Well, I was young Mum! De- service were allowed to go Oliver Wendell Holmes spite all the sh*t I gave you, I back to their home church really love you too :) Your - or ‘mother church’ as it Just like to wish you an adult Robbie (Littlehey) xxx was known. At fi rst, the amazing Mother’s Day. We ‘mothering’ aspect of the love and adore you, thank Mom we love you more than day had no link to maternal you for everything you do you will ever know. You’re parents, as it does today. for us. Love Brandon, Harry an amazing mother with a and Thomas. x x x huge heart. Happy Mother’s How did ‘Mothering Sunday’ Day. Love from Jason, Sarah, become ‘Mother’s Day’? “When your mother Stephen. Xxx The American festival of asks, ‘Do you want a Mother’s Day, which is held piece of advice?’ It is a Mom, if dreams were dreams later in the year and has no Happy Mother’s Day Mum. I enjoy your day. Love you for- so very much. Thomas x x x mere formality. It doesn’t and dreams came true, I religious connotations, drifted across the Atlantic. hope you have an amazing ever, 1st son Stephen xxx matter if you answer yes wouldn’t be here, I’d be there or no. You’re going to get So soon Mothering Sunday day. You deserve to be spoilt. To our lovely Chook/Ma/ with you. Happy Mother’s it anyway.” became more popularly Sorry I’m not there. I love No.1 Mum Lil, you’re the best Mummy/Mumsie, Thank you Day! Luke, Sopie & kids xxx known as Mother’s Day in you, Charlotte xxx mum anyone can ask for, we for being the most terrific Erma Bombeck the UK. The American day love you so much and miss and fabulous mother in the “The heart of a mother was created in 1907 by “When you are a mother, you lots. Lots of love, Dean + galaxy. love Stephen, Guy To our great Mum (Vickie) is a deep abyss at the Anna Jarvis, who held a you are never really Lauren x x x x Guy, Paul and Jason.x x x x x who has stuck by us through bottom of which you will memorial for her mother alone in your thoughts. thick and thin. We love you always fi nd forgiveness.” Ann Jarvis, a peace activist A mother always has To an amazing mum, we loads. William, Katie and A Mother’s Honoré de Balzac who treated wounded to think twice, once for love and adore you and Lola. x x x soldiers in the American herself and once for her wanted to tell you you’re the Day Promise Civil War. Her daughter child.” best! All our love Lynden Alan Ward - HMP Wymott To my no.1 Mum Jackie, Mumsy, Happy Mother’s Day campaigned for a day to Sophia Loren and Lexi-Mae x mother by chance, friend by my wonderful mum and best honour the role played by You gave me life choice. Thanks for everything friend. Thanks for everything, mothers. The idea gained Happy Mother’s Day mum, You’re a special mum and I I’ve made you suffer love you forever, Stacey. x you’re my angel. Get well, such traction that by 1911 wish I could be there for hope you know it’s true. I PROMISE TO CHANGE love you always Carl xxxx all US states took on the you, but hopefully soon? That if we could choose our Make you proud of me To my amazing mum, I love holiday. In 1914, President Love you so much, please family, I would still choose mother you so much and I miss you Although we’re not together, Woodrow Wilson declared Mother’s Day a national look after my wife & son. you. Love Sheree x a lot. It’s hard being away you’ve been an amazing holiday. Thomas x x x So I’m sending my heart from you and I cant just mum to our 2 beautiful My beautiful wife Cassie, I Although I’m away come see you, but I will soon. twins Roman and Rio whilst Amazing Jeanette, you’re one couldn’t ask for a better Wishing I was with you Have an amazing Mother’s I’ve been away. Happy Moth- Mother’s Day 2020 is of a kind, a gift from above. mum to our son, I’m so On this year’s Mother’s Day Day. Love you, Joel xxx er’s Day Anuska. on Sunday 22 March. I’d be lost without you, proud of you & love you both

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Rap Star of the Month Congratulations to this months winner who receives our £25 prize The addict you created Truth Shooter - HMP Channings Wood

I’m stuck here trapped in my past, memories make me cry I was just a little boy you took the joy from my life Now that’s real! I spit the truth when I chat

Nothin but pure facts feel the pain in this track © Deposit Photos Now that’s my life it’s not a walk in the park It’s a life that’s filled with misery, the darkest of paths I felt to run away, hide away from the shame Mother’s Day That’s why I lay awake at night and I cry from the pain Lee Mellenger - HMP Swinfen Hall I close my eyes again I can feel it i'm there Words All my senses sayin run, tell someone but im scared 5 kids raised on a council estate Now that’s f*cked up I put the truth on a shelf No dad around cah he left us astray John Hinton - Rampton Hospital Suppress the pain inside my brain but I’m aching to tell Moma always stood by our side from day Look for a way out, it feels like nobody cares She never gave up through the struggle and pain Sitting in this hell hole Want to reach out for some help, no one know that i'm there And growing ups tough, we made some mistakes This tiresome place consuming my soul So confusin the abuse carries on You can put that on us cah you are not to blame Listening to your rap is so dull I'm about to reach eleven and I know that it's wrong Mum, I’m tired of always seeing tears fall from your face I’m coming in with lack of emotion that’s cold My soul hurts from it my hearts aching it bleeds I swear it’s not your fault, im the man I became So put on your coats sit back and listen Hiding dirty secrets that’s between you and me Through everything ive been through feeling tangled I’m knocking you out of position You took my childhood, my innocence, my trust like a theft In these chains My ability to love not enough of it left Because it’s my mission All this anger built inside me it was tough for me to tain Just a shell of a man now getting worse over time To distort your vision All the thoughts in my mind they were sending my insane Took your secrets to the grave on the day that you died All the weed and henny was my way to get away So keep trying to spit the quickest Never got to ask why! I’m forced to live with the pain Look I remember way back in the day From my point of view it sounds like gibberish I’m the addict you created stickin shit in my veins. Bunking off school to get wavey with my mates You seem so pissed Getting onit was a way to escape from my pain so, Standing there with clenched fists Im sorry for the way I behaved I’m not fazed All the times I got bagged by the Jakes Because I feel more rage Feel strong All the fines that I left you to pay It’s written in the lines of this page All the lies that were said to your face I conjure up these words like a mage Dan Burt - HMP Exeter All the fights, all the mess that I made That’s why they call me magic Ima try, do my best, ima change Venomous and savage There’s this girl I know she feels unknown, Ima rise from the gutter were I lay Throwing you the emotional baggage Just wanna have attention cries on her own, At this time in my life for my mums sake Feeling like an invincible Got nobody to go to she feels so scared, Make her proud of the man I became Individual Doesn’t wanna go to work cries in her bed, (im sorry) She got a couple of friends they think shes ok, Keeping my thoughts to a minimal Inside the pain haunts her day by day Until I reach my pinnacle R.I.P Mum The struggle PT2 She still hasn’t given up she doesn’t see the point, So step on my toes She just wants happiness but emotions disappoint, Conner Williams - HMP Isis Let’s go She blames herself it drives her mad, Because here comes insult after insult For every single little trouble she’s ever had, Hook x 2 Get back in your corner and sulk The pain she endures you can see it through her shirt, Lite all ino is hard times, All I read is jail, jail Bearing the scars of society’s burns. All Ino is dark nights, That’s all you wail I picture mum but I cant cry She hides herself no one hears her cries, You’re not on my scale We gota stay strong now it’s our time, If only you could see the world through her eyes, Your words are just stale Caged up, let the dargz loose b4 I bark mine- All she wanted is one little friend, To stick by her till the end, Livin in the dark, I be forever livin White and dark She didn’t ask for a lot in fact nothing at all, Yh its lite I lost the light, but I cant find the switches, Yeah she was still hit around and called a fool, Someone help me out this cell I can hardly breathe Courtney Jamieson - HMP Eastwood Park She didn’t wanna fight she just wanted some love, I grab a pen and bit of paper, start da reminisin When she was lonely just one hug, I remember I woz a yout- and I had a vision Let’s talk about white & dark And to feel she was accepted, All dem other rappers blowin up while i’m stuck in prison I sur it really gets me mad It usually gets shot in a park Instead of pushed around left out and rejected, You gotta feel strong nothing lasts forever, Ino i got what it takes, look at the lyrics in ma pad Most of the time you get caught I got pain up on the inside, I convert it into rap by a nark You are never alone we’ll do this together, but the obvious observation She cant take no more she’s taken enough, They aint ready when I bar, every lyric I go hard She’s been strong for so long but she ain't that tough, is that it causes devastation Watch when I touch the roadz, ima do it for me fam Scared of letting go but no one seems to care, Aint nobody wrote me letters, you cant tel me im you man its ruining a lot of the population Scared to carry on cause there’s no one there, Where woz you when times woz hard and I woz stuk in the can from people carrying knives A frustrated girl bearing the scars No visits, no nutin, I fort dat we woz brother ina gang taking others’ lives Fighting her fears behind spiritual bars. I guess it goes to show whos really there imagine that was your wife All I got these days is ma thoughts, head + pen up in my pad What about your daughter or son? She broken down in tears said I saved her life Hook x 2 then none of you would have won Crying she asked can I be your wife cause they’d be gone I answered hey there girl tell me what’s wrong Please let the dargz loose, now it’s our time. so please let this all be done. She told me everything so I dedicate this song. I’m sick of al dis livin, stuck in prison ona hard grind. Porridge oats and one milk got me more hungry I just sit and bite my nails, till like half 9, u We will award a prize of £25 to the entry selected as our ‘Rap Star of the Month’. Send entries to: Inside Time, 10 o’clock, a hundred push ups b4 quarter past, Rap, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire, SO30 2GB. Try to keep rhymes under 300 words. When submitting 50 dips its twenty 5 to lunch and I warn mine your work please include the following permission: ‘This is my own work and I agree to Inside Time publish- Channel 5- I watch the clock as time flows ing it in all associate sites and other publications as appropriate.’ By submitting your rhymes to Inside Time you I cant wait to leave prison- i’ve watched al that time go! are agreeing to our terms, to read them in full see the Inside Poetry pages in this issue. Just leme gooooah! 52 Jailbreak // Inside Poetry www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

Star Poem of the Month Illuminati Congratulations to this months winner who receives our £25 prize Richard Davenport - HMP Oakwood

Each day without fail at the table of prophets HMP Travel Tales The virtuous laity become the wing leaders. Debating mandate and pro forma whatsit, Taffy Apple - HMP Usk Righteous pedantics cite Archbold and Vedas

In 2005 I started at Swansea, a short but unpleasant stay At the end of the fours, and at least twice a day Two weeks were like two years, a hundred hours a day Munificent gestures wave false allegations. Then up the road to Bridgend, a longer stay at Parc MP’s are deposed as the team have their say. This laissez faire council that speak for all nations At first all went well, but soon it became too dark Rye Hill was my next stop, not a bad place to be The masonic assembly grab burgers and sit I knuckled down, earned some money and got my cat C To interpret the columns of Mirror and Sun Then on to Shepton Mallet where I spent most of my inside time But eloquent findings of wroth wrought in writ The government went and closed it down which should have Nevertheless, fall short of helping someone. been a crime The Holy See gathers, the good and the wise. I chose to go to Maidstone with the Parole Board looming near An ersatz tribunal of mediocrities They granted me open conditions and with it I shed a tear To marshal their forces with bold PSI’s I settled in at Leyhill but very quickly it fell apart And dispense in extremis with jive legalese I got recalled to closed conditions, I fell back to the start So I ended up at Elmley, finally I lost all hope Machiavellian masters assume their high station Their eyes lidding white in grammatical pleasure I thought the only way out was through a razor blade or rope An Elysium glow gives divine inspiration Eventually some good news, a glimmer of bright light To decipher OASys with dutiful measure I was being transferred out to the Isle of Wight I made good friends who helped me through my hell All at once then, at bang up, the group is no more © Deposit Photos I achieved my category D, once again all was well They deign to disperse as they mix with the minions Books - how do you escape I requested Leyhill once more but ‘they’ ordered me Prescoed With eyes held aloft when they enter their doors I should have been very grateful instead of quite annoyed Clasping plates to their hearts with their jaundiced opinions through reading? I’m now on a ‘lie down’ at Usk, my family I will see Every wing has them. We know whom they are. Tarang Katira - HMP Brixton It’s been such a long time, emotional it shall be The house-block solicitors who put the world to right. But at last I’m near home, back in the land of Wales And we know why they’re here and not at the Bar Books. How do you escape…? Where finally I hope to bring an end to my HMP Travel Tales. That’s cos when they’re talking, they’re just talking sh*te. That’s as far as I read of the question. I stack the books really high up Just by the wall of the prison I think you’re right To help me on the inside My Rhyme As books tend to do. Daniel York - HMYOI Feltham Matt Barratt - HMP Portland Then I make a second stack, with two books fewer Dear Matthew R Wright The next stack has two books even fewer I know I ain’t done much with my life I think you’re right After all, reading can get tiring Acting like a tool Rather than thinking about At my age, I can’t keep going I wish I never got kicked outta school, for acting a fool What keeps us up at night At the same rate. I know I’ve been in and out of jail enough times to call it a fail We should think about things But I’m walking outta the gates That makes us warm and tight. As the weeks and months pass, Looking back at my mistakes and locked up dates I keep making these stacks Book by book by book I’m not giving a prize, I just want my family to realise Personally, Until the final stack I got good in my eyes and turn away from all the lies Pain, tragedy and despair are tertiary Which only has a book And what people say it’s about me I won’t let happiness be adversary. Every day is a blessing Or two It’s not, it’s about a daddy to be and I wish And quite frankly a lesson. I run up each stack, until I reach the top A few more would stand up and say Everything else is just accepting. Here’s the apex. And the top of the wall It’s easy to make a baby, but maybe it’s about being there daily I made it! Hoorah!! And you should have never been put in that position When I lay down and go to sleep If you was meant to be at home My thoughts flow by like leaves on trees And then I jump over In front of the television doing your revision I know that on the day that I’m released I might break a leg… Our lord almighty has tamed my beasts As they say on the big stage Now we need to look a bit closer to home But it certainly was worth it… We got mums with a handful of fears I patterned up A way to escape. Through books and through reading. A face full of tears And sort it out Bunged up in a flat for years Now I walk with bags of clout Life’s too short to listen out for the drought Owning bare rent arrears Sonnet for ‘new justice’ I’m not the person I was before But how they be called a mummy God above opened up the door Mike Nicholls - HMP Dartmoor When they can’t even provide a dummy Patiently waiting for a life of more. Or to put food in the poor boys tummy. They let us down, those coppers years ago And to his grave went Savile undeterred. u We will award a prize of £25 to the entry selected as our ‘Star Poem of the Month’. To qualify for a prize, poems should not have They just pretend that they didn’t know: won a prize in any other competition or been published previously. Send entries to: Inside Time, Poetry, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton, Too powerful to stop was the interred. Hampshire, SO30 2GB. And now the pendulum has swung again, Hysteria and witch-hunt unrelieved. It is very important that you ensure the following details are on all paperwork sent to Inside Time: YOUR NAME, PRISON Confine the elderly with lock and chain; NUMBER & PRISON. Failure to do so will prevent us responding to you and your submission being withheld from publication. Accusers now must always be believed. We will be using the new ‘Money Transfer Service’ for prize money so include your DOB on your entries. They need no evidence, just arrogance By submitting your poems to Inside Time you are agreeing that they can be published in any of our ‘not for profit links’, these include the And must be seen to put old men away newspaper, website and any forthcoming books. You are also giving permission for Inside Time to use their discretion in allowing other In recompense for past incompetence: organisations to reproduce this work if considered appropriate, unless you have clearly stated that you do not want this to happen. Any Injustice the ‘new justice’ for today. work reproduced in other publications will be on a ‘not for profit’ basis. Please note poems for publication may be edited. When submitting your work please include the following permission: ‘This is my own work and I agree to Inside Time publishing it Who will put right the wrongs and honour save, in all associate sites and other publications as appropriate.’ Whilst Savile ruins lives still - from the grave. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Jailbreak // Inside Poetry 53 Modern Youth Realisation Oh sweet child M D Loxley - HMP Littlehey Devante Wilkinson - HMP Nottingham Will - HMP Exeter I really cannot understand the youngsters of today, Oh sweet child, what worries you so? They wear their trousers round their knees, I’m told that means they’re gay I know that my eyes aren’t blind Don’t even mention how they talk, it’s like some foreign tongue But I see the pain I’d left behind The bullies they laugh at the state of my clothes With ‘words’ like “innit” or “you get me bruv”, it sounds so very wrong I close my eyes before I sleep They’re tattered and old with so many holes And please, don’t talk about the so-called music that they play And gently I begin to weep My shoes have no soles an they show all my toes. (It sounds like an explosion in a saucepan factory) I lost so much in such short time I’m sure that they’re not all as bad as at first glance they seem Oh sweet child, my how you’ve grown, It’s just everything they say and do seems so extreme. My life just gone when in its prime Although I reckon if you were to ask my Mum and Dad That’s my past I can’t obsess Now they envy my car while they walk in the cold, They’d tell you that when I was younger, I was just as bad. Just use the powers I now possess I sell drugs on the road, got a mouth full of gold But now I’ve aged and put my wild, mad youth upon the shelf Too much of this self-obsession Now my shoes are the latest and so is my phone. It changed my life when I met my wife and became a dad myself Look on it as a hard-learnt lesson The first few years went like a dream, and I could do no wrong, In how my actions affected others Oh sweet child, oh where have you gone? But now my daughters’ in her teens, need I say more? Well, life goes on Victims, families, fathers, mothers I fort I was king, but what king is alone, The pain I caused I see it now My Visit In a cell on my own with a bunk for a throne Humble pie It came to me I don’t know how I cried to my mum “I just want to go home” Andrew Clifton - HMP The Mount I grew up as an eighties child Hugh Kunz - HMP Forest Bank Pretty good not running wild Oh sweet child, what worries you so? Smiling comes easy today, A shy boy in my life at school With eyes attentive and bright. Never been to Vegas Though occasionally I’d play the fool I’m no longer a child I have kids of my own, Seeing my past, Never been around That persons gone, that life is dead I work in the cold so they’ll never know Walking towards me. How it feels to be down with your back on the ropes. Just sat in a cell I have new challenges up ahead Face touching the ground Forward thinking, don’t look back We sit and talk, Never eaten caviar About things that matter not. It may be hard, you’ll get the knack Never drank champagne Officer’s mess The weather… Windows with bars will soon be gone They give me humble pie to eat Everything… Always remember that life goes on Michael Phelan - HMP Stoke Heath Say it’s my just dessert. Except our true feelings. I know one day my time will come I have to live with what I’ve done Enlistment must be easy With a general ambience, One thing that I know is clear Or perhaps it’s who you know That’s happy and light. F.E.A.R (False Evidence I’ll never end up back in here. Judging by the variety But inside my heart is broken, Appears Real) Of the officers on show And wanting to cry out. About all things I’ve seen and heard. Peter Brown - HMP Stafford There are many different sizes All ending in pain, From the tiny to the tall Resounding in my mind, Oppression moves in many ways, And some have bellies wobbling The friends and loved ones, Your fortunes to disgrace, As they stroll along the hall I’ve lost and found. Not always started off by you, Most have hair that’s trim and short But also about the changes in me. But yours, to own and face. And then there’s those with none The things that keep me going. A few are grey and past their day The things that will bring me through, They may be decades in the past Whilst other could be your son This trial, this day, right now. Twixt sins or crimes disowned, But fame and fortune ever last,

© Deposit Photos You’ll see beards of varying sizes Visits are funny things, The social media groan. Who are they for? Plus moustaches thick and thin Me or them? Age with a smile ladies It’s a fact I’ve also noted It’s filthy, debased, public space, When they are finished, I walk back to my cell On some females they’ve let in Shrieks loud with condemnation, Only to be captured by that lonely feeling again. Tina Bell - HMP New Hall All men of course, of every sort, A few are quite approachable Be they White, or Black or Asian. Or cast a friendly glance Eight Twenty Nine Sweaty boobs, back fat Then there’s those who’d punch your lights out The courts decide and will override, Melting flaps and all of that If you gave them half a chance David Evans - HMP Holme House Probations glowing story, Leaky ladies, a bristly chin Lots are really miserable If there’s a god in heaven give Both of your life and bitter strife, We middle-age girls cannot win With weapons grim and gory. Some gripe at work or pay Me a sign Drying up inside and out Others barely say a word Around this town I’ve been waiting Hairy toes and hairy snout And just go about their day Waiting for some time You wore your uniform with pride, Can you hear me Knickers pulled up nice and high And obeyed every order Occasional funny moments Boobs somewhere around your thigh But facts you learn on your return, Do arise from time to time If angels watch over children Does your mental health disorder. Can’t even sneeze without a piddle Like an officer said on prison food Fast asleep Nice roll of fat around your middle He thought it was a crime If they dry those eyes So here I stand at Stafford’s gate, Those eyes that gently weep But we are made of stronger stuff My gaol term to commence, I recall one split his pants in two Hear this prayer Though we have a saggy muff Distorted facts and Savile’s lapse, When bending for something We will age with charm and grace I’m lost I’m lost I’m all alone The fount of truth abate. Another tripped and flew six feet If those fine people each Sunday Hair removal cream on our face Whilst running down the wing Are blessed The food is crap, the bed is hard, We will laugh instead of cry If a woman does the night shift Tell me where where are they As Stafford’s knot grows tighter, As the years go flying by Which starts at the days end Going But to the future I will look, We are kind, strong and proud She seems always at your viewing glass I can’t imagine And trust my load gets lighter. And after a few gins we get very loud As you’re shaking your best friend If this is just a room Anti-wrinkle cream will do its best Hope grows eternal, we are told, In god’s corridor But vodka and laughter can do the rest The day will come to pack your bags Then will will it be soon But moves so very slow When time is up for you That open arms welcome me When comes the time that I must die, So age, ladies, with a smile on your face But though you’re out they’ll still be there Welcome me. To God and Heaven I’ll go. And a Tenna lady firmly in place. Who’d be a ruddy screw! 54 Jailbreak // Prize Winning Competitions www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

The online support Caption Competition Read all about it! community for family & friends who have a loved one in prision Last Months £25 Winner A £25 prize is on offer for the best caption to 1. What day is Mother’s Day on this year? Tim Basy - HMP Wayland this month’s picture. 2. Which couple won Winter Love Island? Proud sponsors of Inside Time’s 3. Who won the Rugby Union Six Nations? PRIZE quiz ‘Read all about it!’ 4. The Boat race between Oxford and We have over 3000 Cambridge takes place on which river? members using Prison Chat UK 5. Which Irish patron Saint is celebrated on the (PCUK) who offer support and 17th of March? advice to those outside prison. 6. Which TV presenter sadly took her life on To find out more... the 15th of February? see our advert on the back page 7. Which famous duo are back with Saturday Stormzy, Dave and Lewis Capaldi’s backstage Credit: Karl Van Der Westhuizen Night Takeaway? Last Months Winners On closer inspection Dot discovered her celebrations deserve their own Brit Award. Selima Bowman - HMP Peterborough (£25) 8. Who won the recent fight between Deontay fast food was not a little deer after all! Best Album winner Dave was being inter- James Molloy - HMP Berwyn (£5) viewed by Kiss FM when things started to get Wilder v Tyson Fury II? Wayne Mundy - HMP Guys Marsh (£5) A leopard playing with a baby impala, just a delightfully raucous as Stormzy - who had won See box to the right for details of how to enter 9. Which Eastenders character died on the few minutes before eventually killing it. A safari Best Male Solo Artist - hijacked the chat. They guide from Cape Town captured the moment were joined by a third musketeer: Lewis show’s 35th anniversary? Answers to last months News Quiz: 1. Friday, at Greater National park. Capaldi. The Scot won two prizes on this night, 10. Which weather season is meant to start on 2. Laura Whitmore, 3. Every 4 years, 4. Guinness , 5. Jimmy Carr, 6. Eastenders, 7. The Earth, 8. Gary taking home Best New Artist and Best Song. Closing date for all competitions is 20/03/20 the 20th of March? Lineker, 9. Cardiff, 10. Megan and Harry “Look at us,” Stormzy cheered. “Look at us!”

Inside Knowledge // All the answers are within this issue of Inside Time - all you have to do is find them! How to enter: Send your entry on a separate sheet The first three names to be drawn with all-correct answers (or nearest) will 11. A District Judge can impose up to how many days for an offence in prison? receive a £25 cash prize. There will also be two £5 runner up prizes. 12. At which prison did the revised Incentives Policy Framework (IPF), which of paper. Make sure your went live in January, cause a lot of problems? NAME, NUMBER & 1. Who expresses guilt that his reactions move from shock at the sight of people 13. Which barrister believes sentences are too long, saying ‘prisons are just PRISON is on all sheets. who have self-harmed to almost acceptance as it’s so common? warehouses for criminals, they are universities of crime and they make the 2. Who hated his stepdad, who was a bully and an evil monster and who suffered situation worse and worse’? Failure to do so will many beatings at his hands? 14. Ministry of Justice figures show what percentage of all women prisoners have invalidate your entry. 3. The Conservatives won December’s election on promises to build 10,000 new experienced emotional, physical or sexual abuse? prison places at a cost of how much? 15. Who says reading and studying is way more gangsta than anything else? We will be using the new 4. Whose supply of books came from making visits to jumble sales and rummag- ‘Money Transfer Service’ ing through the piles of books that people had donated? Answers to Last Month’s Inside Knowledge Prize Quiz 1. Ken Brown, 2. Natasha for prize money so include 5. Whose other projects have included a role-playing game about life in Wilson, 3. Cocaine, 4. Crime and Consequence, 5. Robyn Lumas, 6. Alison Saunders, Liverpool called ‘Scouse Island’? 7. Nannick, 8. Paul Ellis, 9. Allan Brown, 10. HMP Liverpool, 11. Consultations with GPs, your DOB on your entries. 6. Who says ‘we are kind, strong and proud - and after a few gins we get very loud’? 12. Parkrun, 13. Marisa Merico, 14. £72,000, 15. 332,974 Post to: ‘Jailbreak’. Inside 7. Who is captain of Maidstone United ladies football team? 8. Who thinks the so-called music that youngsters play sounds like an explosion The three £25 Prize winners are: The £5 runner up prizes go to: Time, Botley Mills, Botley, in a saucepan factory? Scott Berry - HMP Hull Darren Dunstan - HMP Stocken Southampton, Hampshire 9. In which country did the Spanish Flu virus first appear? Jason Grayson -HMP Moorland Ian Bensley - HMP Nottingham SO30 2GB. 10. Closed visits may, in the first instance, be imposed for up to how long? Ian Hogg - HMP Holme House Answers to last months quizzes CRISS CROSS QUICK CROSSWORD “Recent Cases dealt with by MKS LAW “ Across: 1 Perceptive. 6 Adonis. 7 March. 9 Barrel. 10 Ale. 11 Coil. CROWN COURT 14 Girl. 15 Nib. 16 Abloom. 17 R v S and Others – Charged with Murder. All defen- Abbot. 18 Calais. 20 Attendance. dants found Not Guilty. Down: 1 Pod. 2 Rental. 3 Ensure. R v W and Others – Charged with supply of drugs. 4 Tumble. 5 Verbatim. 6 Hung Jury. Discharged. Anaconda. 8 Heedless. 9 Bit by bit. 12 Rattle. 13 Placid. 14 R v B - Charged with Attempted Murder. Reduced to Goblin. 19 Ike. GBH following negotiation with CPS. PAROLE HEARINGS LICENCE RECALL JM, BH, AL, AM, DC Clients all released following Parole hearings. GEFBADCHI 2 4 7 8 1 APPEALS AGAINST CONVICTION/ SENTENCE 4 5 1st stage appeals undertaken on private client basis only. 8 6 1 3 4 CATCHPHRASE WORD MORPH 5 4 6 9 3 CCRC REFERRALS 1. Step Ladder bobble 2 6 4 5 2nd appeal attempts undertaken privately and some 2. Worlds Apart nobble 3 9 5 6 2 Legal Aid. A charity providing expert 3. Side Burns nibble 1 3 9 2 6 4. Deep in Thought and legal advice to prisoners nimble 1 3 ADJUDICATIONS 5. Tiny Bubbles nimbly

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2020. All rights reserved. Client found Not Guilty following positive MTD. 6. Do Without 9 2 4 1 7 FA - who claim they are innocent. Daily Sudoku: Wed 1-Jan-2020 Murder, Drugs, Fraud? Facing serious criminal charges? TECHTONIC ANAGRAM SQUARE SUDOKU Face them with the Legal Team that is right for you. If that’s you, please write to us at: 1 Z OMBI 9 2 3 4 7 5 8 1 6 4 1 5 9 8 6 3 2 7 MKS LAW - Suite 19, Unit 9 Liberty One Business Village, West Dock Street, 2 E ASEL 7 8 6 2 1 3 4 5 9 Centre, Wembley, HA0 1TX Kingston upon Hull, East Yorkshire HU3 4HH 3 B AI ZE 5 7 4 8 6 2 9 3 1 or email: [email protected] 4 R ET CH 2 6 8 1 3 9 7 4 5 Tel: 020 8123 3404 Fax: 020 8181 6512 1 3 9 7 5 4 6 8 2 www.insidejustice.co.uk 5 A URAL 8 5 1 3 9 7 2 6 4 MKS LAW Solicitors 6 4 7 5 2 8 1 9 3 Criminal Defence Lawyers

3 9 2 6 4 1 5 7 8 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2020. All rights reserved. Legal Aid & Private Client Daily Sudoku: Wed 1-Jan-2020 easy 020 8123 3404 - [email protected] - mslaw.co.uk

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Recent changes in the law now mean that the Prison has more responsibility than ever to ensure your safety whilst under their care. We are happy to consider all injury claims that Injuries suffered due to negligence occurred within the last three years.

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If you have suffered and you are not sure whether you should claim, then contact us by phone or freepost and we will advise you on the best way forward - all “no win, no fee”.

CONTACT US TODAY, you may be entitled to compensation! Dental Negligence 0800 145 5105 This month's challenge How many triangles? Request a Claim Form Send your: Name, Prison Number and Claim Type to There are two different claims FREEPOST RSSU-GCXH-SJLG about the correct answer! Find the right result and end Brayford Solicitors, 5-7 Hartshill Road, the discussion. Stoke on Trent, ST4 1QH www.brayfordsolicitors.co.uk [email protected] Last Months Answer: The code is 042. Brayford Solicitors is a Trading Name of Brayford Solicitors Limited, Company Number 08270337 registered in England and Wales. The registered office is 5-7 Harsthill Road, Stoke, Stoke on Trent Staffordshire ST4 1QH. Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, Registration Number 654627. 56 Jailbreak // Just for Fun www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020

The one letter in the Anagram Square Honeycomb Do you know? alphabet that can’t be silent The English language can be Write the six-letter answers to these clues around their clue Rearrange the letters in each baffling at times—just look to row to form a word. Write your numbers in the grid, reading clockwise or anti-clockwise, words like phlegm, receipt, answers into the blank grid. starting from the hexagon above the clue number. You’ll need to and chthonic for proof. Silent The first letter from each word, decide which direction they travel. reading down, will spell the letters are unavoidable. mystery keyword. Almost every word in the alphabet is occasionally guilty of taking up space without 1 DOU NS Busy doing nothing contributing anything, but 2 NOD UP Salamanders play the long game, with many species living there is one exception. surprisingly long lives. But among these enduring amphibians, According to Merriam- 3 NGL AE there is one outlier - the olm, also known as the proteus. It has Webster, V is the only letter in been well documented that these small white cave-dwelling English that consistently 4 OGIOL salamanders can live well into their hundreds, but scientists have makes itself heard. No matter now gained new insight into the creatures’ glacial pace of life. In where it appears, whether it’s 5 WNS ET a study which makes sloths look recklessly hyperactive, divers in love, voice, or divisive, V documenting the movements of olms in Herzegovinian caves plays a vital role. Most letters found that over a decade, individuals tended to move less than are phonetic chameleons: 10 metres in total. However, one extraordinarily inert individual 1 That’s why the C sounds was found not to have bothered moving once in over seven years. To be fair to the “slimy creepy crawlies”, as they are known in different in cat and city, and 2 Slovenia, they are not highly gregarious, have no predators, are why the g sounds like nothing highly resistant to starvation - able to go without food for several at all in gnash. V is unique in 3 years - are blind and live in complete darkness underground that it never goes through an and underwater. They are apparently only compelled to move in identity crisis. There are a few 4 1. Fish’s main fin 8. Relaxed 15. Flee order to mate, which they do on average around once every letters that rival V’s special 5 2. Prohibit 9. Made fun of 16. Serenade 12.5 years. The Independent status. Z is only silent in words 3. Passionate, intense 10. Finds out 17. Love excessively we borrowed from the 4. Beer variety 11. Reduce 18. Snake-haired Why It’s Impossible to Tickle Yourself French, like chez, laissez-faire, Thanks to Kim Hodgkins 5. Boat’s steering device 12. Keeper monster HMP Bronzefield. If you fancy Sophie Scott, professor of Cognitive Neurosciences at ULC, and rendezvous. The one 6. Seaman 13. Goal 19. Squalid explains: “The main reason you can’t tickle yourself is because compiling an Anagram Square silent J in the entire English for us please just send it in 5 x 5 7. Feed on shoots 14. Close of day 20. Obnoxious your brain is very good at working out when sensations are language appears in marijua- squares, complete with answers caused by you. If you touch the back of your hand, you get less na, a term of Spanish origin. shown on a grid. If we use it we activation in the brain than if somebody else were to touch you. will send you £5 as a thank you! Tickling only works if there is someone else there.” The second But even accounting for Remember to include your name, Tectonic key player involved in the act is trust. Yes, trust! “If tickling was words we’ve adopted from number, prison. We will be using the new ‘Money Transfer Service’ aggressive, you wouldn’t like it,” asserts Professor Scott. “The idea other tongues, there’s not one Each square must contain a digit. A one-square block contains for prize money so include your of it being done with a safe and playful intention is what you’ve example of a silent V in the DOB on your entries. only a 1, a two-square block contains 1 and 2, a three-square got to be able to trust in. We feel comfortable knowing that it’s English dictionary. Mental block contains 1, 2 and 3, and so on. The same digit cannot not going to become sexual or violent.” Vice Floss appear in neighbouring squares - not even diagonally. Fun facts... Good news / Inspiring, Positive Stories • In a UK supermarket, if a salad is described as ‘washed’ that means washed in a chlo- rine rinse.

• The last duel with swords in France took place after Gaston Deferre insulted René Ribière in the French Parliament. It was in 1967. ‘Nazis out’ A pigeon that can’t fly Love Rich... Football fans in Germany befriended a puppy that Rich Cox was 53 when he lost • Germ scientists have con- united to chant “Nazis out” as can’t walk his battle to throat cancer and firmed that the ‘five-second a single fan who made monkey Meet Herman and Lundy, passed away in 2012, but rule’ for eating food off the noises at a black player was recent cuddle buddies and before he did, he made sure floor is fairly accurate. identified and removed from rescue animals. The two are that his wife would always In 1946 when Bulgaria the ground during a third tier an unlikely pair: Herman, a know just how much he loved • voted to abolish their monar- match. In the closing stages of pigeon, suffered neurological her. For over eight years, Rich chy, the six-year-old King Preussen Munster’s match damage more than a year has had flowers delivered to Simeon II lost his throne. When against Wurzburger Kickers, ago. He can’t fly. Little Lundy, his wife for her birthday and Simeon was 64, he ran for Kickers’ Ghanaian defender a newborn chihuahua puppy, Valentine’s Day, which are a Prime Minister and became Leroy Kwadwo stopped can’t use his back legs. But day apart. When Tracey got the government’s leader Words of the month proceedings to point out the stick them together, and the the first flower delivery, she through democratic means. perpetrator in the stands. The two will snuggle up as though said she was in shock over what • BORBORYGM - the rum- fan, who was sitting in they were members of the her husband had arranged for ally means ‘language feeling’, • According to a 2015 poll, bling sound made by gas in Munster’s main home stand, same litter - or nest. The two an intuitive sense of what is her. Tracey said: “It was sad, Americans believe that 23% your stomach. was promptly identified by his met through the Mia linguistically appropriate. but also happy at the same of the US population is gay or fellow supporters and then Foundation, a rescue time because I just knew he’d lesbian. The actual figure is • DORYPHORE - a pedantic ejected from the stadium by organization in Rochester, • PANTOFOLAIO (Italian) - always be with me.” But the less than 4%. and annoyingly persistent critic. someone who is happy to stewards. He has since been New York, that rehabilitates flower deliveries didn’t stop laze about the house all day. arrested. Following the “Nazis animals with birth defects and after 2013. They continued • CACOGRAPHY - bad hand- • On Good Friday in 1930 the out” chant, a number of fans physical deformities. CNN every year after, each with a writing or spelling. A ‘slippers-wearer’. BBC evening news announced stood up to applaud Kwadwo new note attached to the “There is no news.” Then they • BOONDOGGLE - work of • KUIDAORE - a Japanese and players from both teams bouquet. The messages change played piano music instead. word which translates as ‘to no value done in order to - along with the match each time, but the love remains eat oneself into bankruptcy’. look busy. officials and members of the constant. “Tracey, even though • In 2019, the average coaching staff - approached you can’t see me, I am always American went to a library • LEUCIPOTOMY - the art of • SPRACHGEFÜHL - a the 23-year-old to offer their here. I love you. Love Rich,” a twice as often as they visited carving horses into hillsides. German borrowing that liter- support. CNN note from 2018 read. CNN a cinema. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Jailbreak // Just for Fun 57

March Births The path to success Did I say that? Fact-checker: 1 March 1994 Sleep Justin Bieber - Pop Star 3 4 4 3 7 (26 y/o) 1. Everyone must get 8 hours of sleep. 6 March 1972 2 9 7 5 7 FACT: Although some of us Shaquille O’Neal - Basketball Player (48 y/o) 7 4 4 9 3 do best with eight hours of sleep, others do better with 11 March 1931 seven, nine, or even four 4 5 7 9 4 Rupert Murdoch - Media “I’ve been an academic and “Not bad for an old feather “Remember they’ve been hours. It’s all influenced by Mogul (89 y/o) I’ve been a rapper. Reading duster. The Gypsy King is stuck in their cabins for 14 factors including genetics, 8 6 4 3 3 and studying is way more back!” days, only allowed out for a age, and activity level. 16 March 1959 gangsta than anything else.” Tyson Fury after annihilating couple of minutes each day.” Flavor Flav - Rapper & TV Start at the bottom left square Stormzy surprised a group of Deontay Wilder and winning BBC correspondent Laura 2. Alcohol helps you sleep. star (61 y/o) and move up, down, left or right schoolchildren at a Merky back the WBC Heavyweight Bicker witnessing holiday- FACT: Although it might make until you reach the finish. Add the Books school talk with this world title in Las Vegas. makers being released from you feel drowsy, people who 25 March 1947 numbers as you go. Can you inspiring speech about the cruise liner The Diamond drink alcohol before bed tend Elton John - Singer (73 y/o) make exactly 55? importance of books. Princess. to have certain patterns in their brain consistent with GEF BAD CHI disrupted sleep. Using the letters G,E,F,B,A,D,C,H & I fill in the 3. You can catch up on sleep. blank squares. Each letter A-I must appear only once in each line column and 3x3 grid. FACT: The idea of being able to sleep in until noon on the weekends sounds enticing. “I could hear someone But every time you shift your shouting for help. She was hours, it feels roughly like flying half in the car and half in from New York to California and then back again in one Neil Speed is a “It was all very scary but he the water.” weekend, leaving your body former prisoner is the strongest man I know.” Gloucester man Mark Smith confused on Monday. who came up Singer-songwriter and ‘The telling on Victoria Derbyshire with the concept Voice’ coach Meghan programme how he waded 4. Sleep deprivation won’t of GEF BAD CHI Trainor reassuring fans after into floodwater to rescue “In a world where you can whilst in prison. her father was run over by a woman trapped for 12 hours be anything, be kind,” mess up other aspects of GEF BAD CHI by hit and run driver. on roof of submerged car. Caroline Flack 1980 - 2020 your health. Neil Speed is FACT: While you may not feel published by Jovanka Houska they are always going to give it after one night of poor Xlibris. £12.35 Inside Chess the opposition a tough fight but their job to finish sleep, sleep deprivation can by Carl Portman in the medals is much harder with strong oppo- contribute to some pretty Catchphrase sition. Here’s wishing them all good luck. serious health conditions when it’s chronic and consistent. The object is to try to figure out the well-known saying, person, Is chess an art … a science … or a sport? What is place, or thing that each square is meant to represent. your opinion? Maybe you think it is none, or all 8 5. Drinking warm milk can three, or maybe even one or two of those? help you sleep. Personally, I certainly believe it is a sport. Sport 7 has opponents, it is a competition - and there is FACT: Milk contains trypto- a result. For many years the top levels of chess 6 phan, a compound our have even wanted it to be recognized as an bodies convert into the Olympic sport. Well you might be surprised to 5 sleep-influencing brain learn that chess does have its own Olympics - chemical serotonin. But called the Olympiad. This year, the 44th edition 4 there’s not enough of it in will be held in Moscow. As a youth I always rel- milk to help you fall asleep. ished reading about these events, especially the 3 one in 1988 in Thessaloniki, Greece which the 6. You can only dream author and actor Stephen Fry attended and made 2 during REM sleep. a programme about. He is a chess lover after all. 1 FACT: Contrary to popular belief, you can actually dream It is a team event and some of the world’s ‘min- during all phases of sleep. nows’ like Malawi, Angola or Seychelles can share A B C D E F G H the playing hall with the greats such as Russia, Dear Editor 7. Counting sheep helps you Armenia, China, the USA and more. England has The position this month is taken from the game fall asleep. done very well in the past and I look forward to • I am infuriated by cash electricity in the dental practice Karthikeyan vs Parraga at the 2016 Olympiad in seeing how the men’s and the women’s teams FACT: If you regularly have machines that blight our where my mate works. Kim Baku. It is White to play (going up the board) and do this year. At least there shouldn’t be snow in trouble sleeping, this method streets. Every time I insert my to checkmate Black in 3 moves. Your task is to Moscow in August so everyone will be able to might actually make you take card, they ask me for my PIN. • Why do health and safety work out how. get there. The event is held every two years and longer to fall asleep. I can’t tell you how many whingebags all say ‘walk don’t the first official Olympiad was held in London times I have used them yet run’ in a fire situation, then Write to me with your answer, care of The English in 1927 when Hungary was the victors. None of 8. If you wake a sleepwalker, still they are unable to put up fire exit signs that Chess Federation at The Watch Oak, Chain Lane, the teams from the UK has ever won it, but remember a simple 4-digit clearly show some guy you could scare them to England secured silver in 1984, 1986 and 1988 Battle, East Sussex TN33 OYD. Please note that number. Come on banks, get sprinting flat-out through a death. when chess was booming in this country. England you should always write to me at the ECF not via a bigger hard drive so you doorway or full-pelt down did also win the bronze medal at that first Inside Time. Also, please include your prison FACT: If you wake a sleep- don’t have to keep asking for some stairs? Sam Olympiad in London and then in 1976 in Israel number and if you can, the date and what months walker, you’ll probably find my number. Percy and 1990 in what was then Yugoslavia. puzzle you are entering. them shocked and confused. • When you send food back But you certainly won’t kill • I decided to act out the to the kitchen, you’re basically Can England win a medal this time around? The answer to January’s puzzle was 1…Nd5-e7. them. phrase ‘when the shit hits the saying “can I have the chef rub Possibly! Last year the team won the silver medal A brilliant move that threatens checkmate on h1 fan’ the other day, and believe his genitals over this please?” in the world team championship and they have or White has to give up his queen. The winner 9. If you die in your dreams, me the results weren’t as And I should know, as I was a a really good team spirit. Not forgetting the ladies’ was John from HMP Leyhill. February’s winner then you die in real life. magnificent as you would head chef at a pub for 2 1/ 2 team, often led by 9 times British Champion expect. And it shorted out the years until they got CCTV. Peter to be announced. FACT: Don’t worry, you won’t. Hidden Word: SPAIN

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A N G L E 58 Jailbreak // Just for Fun www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 I G L O O NumberN E W T SearchS In this month... Number Search – Stanciu Bogdan HMP Bullingdon 0 6 0 6 0 9 3 0 6 0 2 March 1882 Queen Victoria narrowly escapes assassination 2 2 6 3 4 4 2 6 0 3 when Roderick Maclean shoots at her while 3 4 3 0 6 3 9 0 6 3 boarding a train in Windsor. 2 0 0 6 3 1 3 1 2 1 4 March 1924 2 1 0 6 1 9 2 6 2 9 The song “Happy Birthday To You” published in 1 1 0 0 4 9 5 0 9 0 print for the first time by Claydon Sunny. It is the highest grossing song in history as unau- 0 5 9 1 0 3 4 6 0 4 thorised public performances are illegal unless 6 4 6 4 6 0 3 1 2 3 royalties are paid to Warner Music. 0 0 6 9 1 2 6 3 0 0 5 March 1558 0 6 4 0 0 5 9 1 0 3 Smoking tobacco introduced into Europe by 614930, 006149300, 0039416, 0395620, Spanish physician Francisco Fernandes. 614930, 006149300, 0039416, 0395620, 6593066, 210162, 01040, 00495090, 200631312,6593066, 13136, 210162, 0606093060, 01040, 0009664, 00495090, 64336, 34523923, 360343 6 March 2018 200631312, 13136, 0606093060, 0009664, World’s oldest message in a bottle found in 64336, 34523923, 360343 Western Australia, thrown from German ship Thanks to Stanciu Bogdan HMP Bullingdon for Paula 132 years ago (12 June 1886). compiling this Number Search. If you fancy compiling one please send in max 10 x 10 grid complete with answers shown on a grid. If we use it 7 March 1908 we will send you £5 as a thank you! Remember to Cincinnati Mayor Mark Breith stands before include your name, number and prison. We will be city council and announces that, “women are using the new ‘Money Transfer Service’ for prize not physically fit to operate automobiles”. money so include your DOB on your entries.

8 March 2017 // Hard Aboriginal DNA study by University of Adelaide Sudoku shows Aboriginal population dates back 50,000 years from one migration. 3 9 9 March 1959 2 7 Barbie makes her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York. Over a billion have been sold 6 8 3 4 worldwide since. 7 9 2 5 3 9 March 1974 © MW Released life sentenced prisoner Last Japanese soldier, a guerrilla operating in 6 4 Philippines, surrenders, 29 years after World War II ended. 2 8 5 7 4

10 March 1876 1 8 2 6 First telephone call; Alexander Graham Bell 9 7 says “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you” to his assistant Thomas Watson. 3 8 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2020. All rights reserved. 11 March 1869 Daily Sudoku: Mon 3-Feb-2020 The West first learns of the Giant Panda via Word Morph French missionary Armand David who receives a skin from a hunter. Can you morph one word into another by just changing one letter at a time? It isn’t quite as 14 March 1950 easy3 as4 you think!7 2 5 9 8 1 6 FBI’s ‘10 Most Wanted Fugitives’ program begins. 8 1 2 4 GREEN3 6 5 7 9 15 March 1985 The first Internet domain name, symbolics.com Get the flu jab before the flu gets you 5 6 9 7 8 1 3 2 4 is registered. 4 7 1 8 9 2 6 5 3 What are the common l Keep warm 19 March 1911 l Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to 9 5 3 6 1 4 2 8 7 International Women’s Day was honoured the symptoms of flu? lower your temperature and treat first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and l Fever aches and pains 2 8 6 5 7 3 9 4 1 Switzerland. More than one million women l Aching muscles l Drink plenty of water to avoid DRIED and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for l Chills and sweats dehydration 1 3 8 9 2 7 4 6 5 women’s rights to work, vote, be trained, to l Headache hold public office and end discrimination. 6 9 5 1 4 8 7 3 2 l Dry, persistent cough If I get flu how can I help Just for laughs l Fatigue and weakness

21 March 1962 7 2 4 3 6 5 1 9 8 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2020. All rights reserved. to stop further spread? • I just saw a cashier scan the eyes of a rude Yogi the bear becomes the 1st creature to be l Nasal congestion customerDaily Sudoku: with Mon her3-Feb-2020 barcode reader. The lookhard ejected at supersonic speeds by the US military l Sore throat l Avoid using common areas on his face was priceless. testing ejection seats. l Keep your living environment clean l Cover your mouth and nose with What should I do • So our boss just banned overly specific 22 March 1903 a tissue when coughing or sneezing nicknames. Now our whole office ishttp://www.dailysudoku.com/ staring at Niagara Falls runs out of water because of a if I have symptoms? l Sit at least three feet away from Rat Snitch Brian The Good Time Ruiner. drought. l Inform a member of staff others, if possible IMMEDIATLEY l Discourage visitors, especially • What’s the best time to go to the dentist? 24 March 1906 children and vulnerable adults When it’s 2:30. “Census of the British Empire” shows Great What is the usual treatment? l Support the prison by adhering to Britain rules 1/5th of the world. other restrictions which may be • I have a steering wheel stuck in my pants. l Rest and sleep needed It’s driving me nuts. 30 March 1984 World’s most valuable tip - New York police • The person who invented autocorrect walks detective Robert Cunningham offers waitress Public Health into a barn. He orders a bear. Phyllis Penzo half of $1 lottery ticket, next day England Ask healthcare if you are eligible they win $6 million. • What do you call 5 fish cut in half? Tuna half. Insidetime March 2020 www.insidetime.org Jailbreak // Just for Fun 59

Lee Tipper – HMP Hewell The joke’s on you! WordsearchMothering Sunday // Mothering Sunday Would you believe it? • Bill woke up with a killer hangover after M U M A E G R A N D M A Q P R W X F R M attending his best mate’s party. He didn’t even A I O D E F P R E S E N T S U T Y A E O remember how he got home. Confused, he R O T L B A E D C C A R D O V G E M L T tried to gather his thoughts, “It’s 8.30. What C U H A F G H F I K J L M N S Q Z I A H day is it? Thursday. The wife must have gone to H M E U A P R E G N A N C Y Z I F L T E work.” S C R G C G Z B S T J L M M U M M Y I R T H I H H F D X Y Z K B N O P Z Q R O I As he struggled into consciousness through A I N T E I B E A U T I F U L A B M N N Tyred of this the fog of a pounding headache, his heart sank R L G E S W A U V H A R C D N S L U S G Indonesian authorities are as he wondered what the hell he did last night. T D S R S B L O O D B T E S U T O L H F offering a reward to anyone He forced himself to open his eyes, and the E R U G G E L S T A E H F I R A O E I G that is able to free a crocodile first thing he saw was a couple of aspirins next D E N R H F O A E O N H G S T R M D P H which has a tyre stuck around to a glass of water on the side table. And, next N N D A C H O C O L A T E T F S M A M I Wheelie rubbish idea to them, a little vase of sweet peas, freshly U N A N I L N U R T N Q P E L I D U H M A millionaire has transformed two wheelie bins its neck. The 13-foot-long picked from the garden. He sat up. The bed- R A Y L L O S S M U N N O D O S A G E O into a ‘sleep pod’, which he says could help crocodile has had the room was clean and tidy; there was no trail of T E E O M V N S I S T E R F W T E H A T improve the lives of rough sleepers. Here he is motorcycle tyre around its drunkenly abandoned clothes, fresh air was U M F V O D T E E M U E T E E E Y T R H demonstrating it in the most British way neck for more than three coming in through the window and all was R T H E A R T M O C E L E B R A T E S E possible. Peter Dawe, who stood as a candi- years. Officials did not say serene. He stumbled to the bathroom, which E R E L A T I O N S H I P S S B I R T R date for the Brexit Party at last year’s election, how much was on offer for was also pristine, and, squinting gingerly into believes his creation could make a massive S U K I N D N E S S A B M O T H E S H E releasing the tyre, simply the mirror, saw that he had a black eye. This difference to the homeless. However, not saying: “A reward will be given was not a good sign, but no memories were BALLOONS, BEAUTIFUL, BIRTH, BLOOD, CARD, CELEBRATE, everyone believes it’s the right way to tackle BALLONS, BEAUTIFUL, BIRTH, BLOOD, CARD, CELEBRATE, CHILDREN, CHOCOLATE, to anyone who can release returning. DAUGHTER,CHILDREN, FAMILY, CHOCOLATE, FLOWERS, GEM, GRANDMA,DAUGHTER, HEART, FAMILY, KINDNESS, LAUGHTER,FLOWERS, LOVE, the problem of rough sleeping, with some MAM,GEM, MARCH, GRANDMA, MOTHER, MOTHERING, HEART, KINDNESS, MOTHERING SUNDAY, LAUGHTER, MUM, NAN, LOVE, NURTURE, MAM, the hapless reptile.” The PREGNANCY, PRESENTS, RELATIONSHIPS, RELATIONSHIP, MUMMY, STAR. slamming his invention as demeaning. But the As he concentrated hard on getting the world MARCH, MOTHER, MOTHERING, MOTHERING SUNDAY, crocodile in question, has 65-year-old hasn’t taken the criticism lying into focus, he saw a post-it note stuck on the MUM, NAN, NURTURE, PREGNANCY, PRESENTS, down, instead arguing it’s better than having to overcome several hurdles in corner of the mirror. It was written in red, with RELATIONSHIPS, RELATIONSHIP, MUMMY, STAR. brave the elements without cover. Speaking its life while carrying the tyre, little hearts on it and a kiss from his wife. “I’ll Thanks to Lee Tipper - HMP Hewell for compiling this Wordsearch. If about his invention, the tech tycoon says he surviving tsunamis and ring your office and tell them you won’t be in you fancy compiling one for us please send in max 20 x 20 grid came up with it while trying create an electric earthquakes that have struck today. Breakfast is in the oven. Try to eat complete with answers shown on a grid. If we use it we will send you £5 car, also out of bins. He said: “I saw on the telly something and go back to bed for the morn- as a thank you! Remember to include your name, number, prison. We the city of Palu. Despite the will be using the new ‘Money Transfer Service’ for prize money so rough sleepers complaining they had been ing. There’s sport on TV this afternoon. Take it kicked and p***ed upon. Lying on the street in disasters, the tyre remains include your DOB on your entries. lodged around its neck and as easy today, hope your eye doesn’t hurt too a sleeping bag, you are very vulnerable. It was much. See you tonight. I love you, darling! the beast grows, so does the totally draught proof, in fact it’s storm proof. Love, Alison.” Quick Crossword It’s really cosy, comfortable and dry.” Lad Bible risk of suffocation. Sky News Bill stumbled to the kitchen and sure enough, 18th Century Slang slang for “A riotous holiday, a noisy there was hot breakfast, steaming hot coffee day in the streets.” and the newspaper. His teenage son was sit- In 1909, British writer Andrew ting at the table, eating. Bill, bracing himself for • DAMFINO - This creative cuss is a Forrester published ‘Passing English the worst, asked his son what happened the contraction of “damned if I know.” of the Victorian era, a dictionary of previous night. His son said, “Well, you came home after 3 in the morning, drunk and out of heterodox English, slang and • BRICKY - Brave or fearless. “Adroit your mind. You fell over the coffee table and phrase’. Below are a selection of after the manner of a brick,” Forrester broke it, and then you puked in the hallway. hilarious and delightful words long writes, “said even of the other sex, lost to the passage of time. ‘What a bricky girl she is.’” You got that black eye when you ran into the door.” • BLOWSABELLA - An unkempt • UNLICKED CUB - “A rude uncouth woman. “A woman whose hair is young fellow.” Bill was confused as he asked his son, “So, why dishevelled, and hanging about her is everything in such perfect order, aspirins by face; a slattern.” • BEARD SPLITTER - “A man much the bed, a nice note from Mum and breakfast given to wenching,” or consorting with waiting for me?” His son replied, “Oh, that! • ARFARFAN’ARF - A figure of speech prostitutes. Well you see, Mum dragged you to the bed- used to describe drunken men. “He’s room, and when she tried to take your trou- • NANTY NARKING - A tavern term, very arf’arf’an’arf,” Forrester writes, sers off, you screamed, ‘Leave me alone, I’m popular from 1800 to 1840, that “meaning he has had many ‘arfs,’” or married!!’” half-pints of booze. meant great fun. • ORF CHUMP - No appetite. • DEATH’S HEAD UPON A MOP-STICK Quotes Across Down - “A poor, miserable, emaciated fellow.” • PARISH PICK-AXE - A prominent nose. 1. Swedish capital (9) 1. Prosecute (3) • DUKE OF LIMBS - “A tall, awkward, “’I don’t like to ask them questions.’ ‘Why not?’ • PODSNAPPERY - This term, 6. Curve (3) 2. Oily fruit (5) ill-made fellow.” ‘They might give me answers. And then what Forrester writers, describes a person would I do?’” TERRY PRATCHETT 8. Showing kindliness (6) 3. Relating to motion (7) 9. Evidence (5) 4. Production (6) • BACK SLANG IT - Thieves used this with a “wilful determination to ignore 10. Begrudge (6) 5. A colour (6) term to indicate that they wanted “to the objectionable or inconvenient, at “We are all agreed that your theory is crazy. 11. Concentrated (7) 7. Cafe (6,3) go out the back way.” the same time assuming airs of superi- The question that divides us is whether it is or virtue and noble resignation.” crazy enough.” NIELS BOHR 13. Cupidity (7) 8. Vicious person (9) • MUTTON SHUNTER - This 1883 16. Sacred beetle (6) 12. Snuggles (7) • SHAKE A FLANNIN - Why say you’re term for a policeman is so much bet- “Those who don’t believe in magic will never 18. Billiards term (2-3) 14. Quantity (6) going to fight when you could say ter than “pig.” find it.” ROALD DAHL 19. Smaller in size, worth, etc. (6) 15. Weak in health or body (6) you’re going to shake a flannin 21. Religious sister (3) 17. In a state of confusion (2,3) • MAFFICKING - An excellent word instead? “An actor entering through a door, you’ve got 22. Jointly-owned holiday 20 Viewing organ (3) that means getting rowdy in the nothing. But if he enters through the window, property (4-5) streets. • UMBLE-CUM-STUMBLE - According you’ve got a situation. BILLY WILDER to Forrester, this low class phrase ” The last word... • JUST-ASS - “A punning appellation means “thoroughly understood.” for a justice,” or a punny name for a “Anyone who believes what a cat tells him judge. • WHOOPERUPS - A term meaning deserves all he gets.” NEIL GAIMAN “inferior, noisy singers” that could be “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too • LOBCOCK - A dull inanimate fellow. used liberally today during karaoke “That is what learning is. You suddenly under- great a burden to bear.” Martin Luther King Jr sessions. stand something you’ve understood all your • BENJO - Nineteenth century sailor life, but in a new way. ” DORIS LESSING 60 Jailbreak // National Prison Radio www.insidetime.org Insidetime March 2020 National Prison Radio is available in prisons across March 2020 England and Wales, and HMP Grampian in Scotland. What’s on National Prison Radio // March 2020 We broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, into your cell. If your prison has National Prison Radio, you can National Prison Radio is currently available in prisons across England and Wales. We broadcast 24-hours a day, seven days a week,listen into through your cell. your TV by using the tuning buttons on If your prison has National PrisonWhat’s Radio, you can listen on through National your TV by using the tuningPrison buttons on yourRadio? remote control. your remote control.

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07:00 Love Bug 17:00 . Deja Vu Mother Inside Love Bug Free Freedom Write to the (or local Classic tracks Land Music Write to the Flow Inside Porridge ones you love shows) and oldies Music Artist ones you love Find your Yoga and Supported by: Afrobeat profiles beat. meditation The world’s first national breakfast bangers. from HMP Write your show made by and for prisoners. Peterborough bars. 08:00 NPR FreedomBob 18:00 NPR Talk Helping you make the most of your time. (or local Friday Insideand shows NPR Fresh Sport, YogaBeyond and NPR NPR Talk NPR Talk YO Ear Brixton made chat and meditationThe best Specials Helping you Helping you Stories Hustle Calling in your The freshest new music, here on National Prison Radio. ents. Your reggae Real talk. make the make the Real lives, News and prison) If it’s fresh, we’ve got it. start to the and Don’t just do most of your most of your real talk requests weekend. dancehall. your time, time behind time behind from YOIs from HMP use your time. bars. bars. Brixton. 09:00 Bob Decibel NPR The Ear Hustle 19:00 The Bob and and The finest Urban Rock Beyond dance The best in Show The Request Show Rock Beyond Two hours To hear your song, message or poem on the radio, write to us at: Show Reggae music from urban music. Turn it up Reggae and and around the of new Hip-hop, loud. Join National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF Join the dancehall 10:00 dancehall world, British music grime, R&B, the Rock NPR 20:00 Get your loved-ones to request tracks for Thursday’s show at: Rock classics. classics. direct to from Jamz bashment Show Specials www.nationalprisonradio.com Show your ears. Supernova. and afrobeat. Family. family.

11:00 NPR 21:00 Free NPR NPR Decibel Mother Takeover Flow Fresh Urban The finest Land Porridge Find your Two hours Another chance to hear this morning’s show. The best in dance Music beat of the urban music from Two hours music. around the of new NPR NPR Talk NPR Talk YO Stories YO NPR Talk freshest 12:00 22:00 Inside Deja Vu new music. Hip-hop, world, British Love Bug (or local Specials See 18:00 See 18:00 See 18:00 Stories Music Classic tracks If it’s fresh, R&B and direct to music Write to the shows) See 18:00 See 18:00 and oldies we’ve got it. more. your ears. from Jamz ones you From HMP love. Peterborough Supernova 13:00 Open

The Request Show Your Mind 23:00 This month’s book: The The Request Show Books Unlocked Dark Room by Rachel Seiffert Want to hear your favourite song on National Prison Radio? Write Write to National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF for a free copy. 14:00 To hear your song, message or poem on the radio, write to us at to us at: YO National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF National Stories Music and advice to help you sleep Prison 23:30 safe and sound through the night. 15:00 NPR Freedom Radio, Books Dream Time Inside HMP Unlocked Fresh NPR Fresh Brixton, A repeat of Two hours The freshest new music. London the week’s NPR Specials: Across England and Wales. 16:00 of the If it’s fresh, we’ve got it. book NPR SW2 Monday 2 March - Outside In: helping you prepare for life after prison. freshest Friday 5XF readings music. Start your Monday 16 March - Awr y Ddraig (Hour of the Dragon): Welsh culture. weekend. Monday 23 March - Huntercombe Takeover: how to handle returning home.

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