-48
discuss their own assumptions concerning the causes of violence and
ideas for how change can be achieved. As it is not possible to examine all
aspects relevant to violence during a single visit, the objectives for each one
should be embedded in a broader long-term strategy for the monitoring of
prison violence. If several visits at one prison are planned, the NPM could
start with examining physical aspects of the prison facility with regards
to violence prevention and at the same time acquire more information on
the prevalence of violence, to possibly identify a specifically problematic
form of pattern of violence. During subsequent visits, the prevailing culture
and staff-prisoner relationships could in turn become the focus to find out
more about the less visible root causes ‘underneath the waterline’.
GOOD PRACTICE
NPM United Kingdom – The HMIP developed ‘Healthy Prison
Tests’ and on this basis Expectations.92 Each expectation is in
turn composed of a number of indicators that need to be met to
‘fulfil’ the standard. These methods give a clear picture of ‘how
things should be’, thereby focusing the monitoring process and
giving precise guidance to the prison authorities. Although not
specifically established for the monitoring of prison violence, these
tests support further quality assurance and better quality of life in
prison, both of which are important factors for reducing violence.
The HMIP inspects four main areas:
• Safety – Whether prisoners, particularly the most vulnerable, are
held safely.
• Respect – Whether prisoners are treated with respect for their
human dignity.
• Purposeful activity – Whether prisoners are able and expected to
engage in activity that is likely to benefit them.
• Rehabilitation and release planning – Whether prisoners are
supported in maintaining and developing relationships with
their family and friends, are helped to reduce their likelihood of
reoffending and their risk of harm is managed effectively and
whether they are prepared for their release back into the community.
92. HMIP, Expectations. The inspections and reviews of the HMIP are based on the healthy prison
concept which was first set out by the World Health Organisation (WHO), for more details see WHO,
‘Healthy Settings’ <https://www.who.int/healthpromotion/healthy-settings/en/>.
Select target paragraph3
Connect to a paragraph
Connect to an entity
Disable highlights
Add to table of contents