OPEN RESEARCH BEHIND CLOSED DOORS media, especially in the initial phase of the pandemic. Others reported that the staff In Austria, although not from did their best to inform them and/or group the start, infographics ex- therapy sessions were used to discuss the plaining the relevant hygienic situation during the pandemic. In Germany, measures were translated in these discussion groups and conversations 17 languages by the Austrian with staff were perceived as essential to Integration Fund (also avail- explain the regulations to the persons conable in some of the relevant cerned in a comprehensible way. This was institutions). crucial, specially to convey the information www.integrationsfonds.at/coronainfo to persons concerned with limited cognitive abilities or knowledge of German, to reduce the amount of confusion and to reach those who have problems understanding written information (in German) and media coverage. Overall, in all three countries, staff working with persons deprived of liberty were impressed by the acceptance of and adherence to the regulations. In this context, the trust between staff and persons concerned is crucial.40 PROMISING PR AC TICE KEY MESSAGE ON THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION: After the first lockdown, in Italy, riots broke out in more than 40 prisons. The staff of prisons where riots did not take place mentioned the constant information provided to persons concerned and their representatives during the emergency as the main reason. Similar reasoning was given in Austria by numerous stakeholders mentioning regular information exchange as an essential de-escalating factor. 2.4 Right to health Key aspects » Restrictive measures to prevent COVID-19 infections can affect the mental health of persons concerned negatively » Tests allowed for a shorter time of quarantine necessary to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus » Therapies took place with safety measures (e.g. glass panes, video calls) 10