Section Four National Preventive Mechanism member profiles will fail to recognise or acknowledge them. Prisoners with alcohol problems are likely to be more problematic in general and to require greater support; however HMIP found that services for alcohol users were limited compared to the services available to illicit drug users. HMIP recommended that a national strategy, based on need and backed by sufficient resources, training and support, be implemented. Key issues15 The seriousness with which inspections are regarded was evidenced in 2009 by the decision of some managers in two prisons – Wandsworth and Pentonville – to swap difficult prisoners for the duration of their respective inspections. This was both unacceptable and pointless, overshadowing the undoubted progress made in both prisons. By making the welfare of prisoners subordinate to the desire to impress inspectors, it fundamentally misunderstood, and indeed undermined, the purpose of inspection. As a consequence, HMIP was asked by the government to carry out more unannounced inspections in future. In relation to immigration detention, HMIP yet again expressed concern in 2009–10 about the detention of children in immigration removal centres. HMIP found little evidence that decisions to detain children, or to maintain their detention, fully take account of the best interests of the child. Looking forward In 2010–11, HMIP will continue its programme of inspections of prisons, immigration detention and police custody. In addition, it will publish thematic reports on the experiences of Muslim prisoners, women in prison and the management of gang issues among children and young people in prison custody and the community.16 HMIP will also explore the effectiveness of training plans for children and young people. Such plans should underpin and guide the management of a young person’s time in custody and his or her transition back into the community. In relation to prisons, another key issue in 2009–10 was the rising population and overcrowding. This is particularly important at a time when prisons have decreased resources. Despite the efforts of prisons and prison staff, overcrowding has an adverse impact on the treatment of and conditions for prisoners, and it compromises successful rehabilitation. 15 For a discussion of key issues arising in police custody, see page 30. 16 The thematic inspection relating to gangs is being carried out in conjunction with HMIC and HM Inspectorate of Probation. 25