developed. It is also quite likely that the prison will have some expertise or
facilities that may be useful to the education service in the community, for
example sporting facilities, so the relationship may prove to be mutually
beneficial;
39.
– In the longer term, it is in the interest of all prisons within a jurisdiction to
establish some sort of policy on the education of prisoners, the facilities required
and transfer arrangements;
39.
– The various ethnic or cultural groups within a prison may feel disadvantaged, so
it is generally good policy to recognize their particular needs by setting up
consultation groups with the local community. Demonstration of a genuine
willingness to act on the recommendations of these groups could be shown by
inviting them into the prison on a regular basis;
39.
– Local cultural groups should be encouraged to see liaison with the prison as part
of their remit if any of their members are held there;
39.
– An extension of this role could then be encouraged by way of involvement in
the educational programme for all prisoners.
CASE STUDIES
Methodology:
It is suggested that a round-table discussion should take place with volunteer trainees
joining with one or two members of the training team in order to discuss the issues that
arise. Different trainees should participate for each case study.
Points to be highlighted/suggested areas for discussion:
CASE STUDY 1
39.
– There is always a potential security problem when prisoners have some
authority or are working unsupervised; staff will feel this and be wary;
39.
– If the prisoners are known to be well educated, the prison staff are likely to feel
inferior and uncomfortable;
39.
– It remains, however, a good idea and the only chance of providing the
educational activity that prisoners are entitled to;
39.
– Choosing the right staff to supervise the prisoner “teachers” is essential;
39.
– It is equally important for these staff to work alongside the prisoner “teachers”
so that it is seen as a prison staff initiative and one that is being supervised.
CASE STUDY 2
39.
– This type of initiative is always popular both inside and outside prison;
39.
– The response will vary according to the type of prison and the composition of
the community group;
39.
– If the security concerns can be dealt with, this offer should be taken up; it
provides contact with the community, educational exposure and cultural
diversity for the prisoners.
104
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