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Minister releases action plan for HMP Exeter

The Chief Inspector found serious concerns last month.

David Gauke has published a strategy to improve HMP Exeter following an Urgent Notification by the prisons inspectorate.

The Government says a team of specialists, including former prison Governors and Senior Civil Servants from around the country, is working with the prison to transform its safety strategy and address the drivers of violence and self-harm.

Living conditions were immediately re-assessed and cells that were identified as not fit for purpose have been taken out of use for repairs. Faulty cell bells at the time of the inspection have already been identified and repaired – with new processes put in place to ensure swifter staff responses to them.

The prison is making particular improvements to support vulnerable prisoners in their first night and early days in custody and an updated safety strategy will be put in place by the end of July. This includes creating an additional constant supervision cell to closely monitor those assessed to be at an acute risk of suicide or self-harm.

The national drugs taskforce is also supporting a full analysis to identify what more can be done to tackle drugs entering the prison.

The action plan published today also outlines:

  • Extra money has been provided to the prison to address maintenance concerns, including replacing broken windows, repairing observation panels and repairing leaking toilets, sinks and privacy screens for toilets.
  • Prisoner cells will be refurbished and receive new toilet seats, fittings and guard rails for beds.
  • Key workers will be assigned to prisoners to help staff manage violent offenders and better understand the causes of violence.
  • Improved measures to stem the flow of drugs into the prison.
  • Additional managerial support to the prison Governor to deliver progress against recommendations made by inspectors.

The Secretary of State’s full action plan can be found here. It also sets out how Exeter’s progress over the coming year will be regularly reviewed.

The final inspection report for HMP Exeter will be published by HM Chief Inspector later this year.

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