53 Follow-up of recommendations Physical conditions Well-designed physical surroundings are an important aspect of ensuring that people who have been deprived of their liberty are treated well. Research supports the fact that beneficial physical surroundings can help to reduce the use of coercive measures. Findings and recommendations The physical conditions have been criticised at many of the prisons, mental healthcare institutions and child welfare institutions the NPM has visited. Our recommendations have particularly concerned security cells, segregation units and isolation rooms. In several of these cases, the NPM has ascertained that the conditions entail a high risk of inhuman treatment. ›› Follow-up Gaustad hospital established a working group following the NPM’s visit that has implemented a number of measures to improve the physical conditions at all its segregation units. These included painting, equipping and furnishing the segregation units. ›› ››An extensive development project was initiated by Åna Prison following the NPM’s visit, to improve the physical environment. Work has also been started on improving the exercise yard for inmates placed in solitary confinement under a court order, or who have limited opportunity to socialise with other inmates. Dimmers have also been installed in the security cells to prevent inmates being subjected to full lighting throughout the day and night. ››After the NPM’s visit, Arendal Prison decided to discontinue the use of holding cells. The NPM found the cells to be unsuitable for prolonged detainment. ››Following the visit to Akershus University Hospital, the hospital started redecorating the atrium, painting the entrance area and planting in the outdoor area. Indoors, the walls were painted and pictures hung up. The hospital has stated that it is also investigating the possibility of initiating a project on the physical treatment environment at the department in cooperation with an interior architecture programme. ››After the NPM’s visit to the police immigration detention centre at Trandum, clocks with calendars were hung up in the security section so that the inmates there can keep track of time. ››Following the visit to Ålesund Hospital, funds were set aside to upgrade all segregation areas, including new furnishings. Funds were also allocated to a full upgrade of the secure psychiatric rehabilitation unit, including for establishing new outdoor areas.