Last August, after the inquest into the self-inflicted death
of a prisoner serving an IPP sentence at HMP Swaleside, a Ministry of Justice spokesperson
said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Sean Davies.”
They did not remain long it seems. The Prevention of Future
Deaths Report (PDF) issued by the Mid Kent and Medway coroner about Mr Davies’ case
is one of seven such reports relating to people who’ve died in prison which did
not receive a timely response from the authorities last year.
Coroners issue PDF reports when they hear evidence of
matters giving rise to concern and form the view that there is a risk that
future deaths could occur unless action is taken. Recommendations can be
directed at the Prison Governor, HMPPS and/or the Ministry of Justice- and
private prison companies where appropriate.
They are under a duty to respond within 56 days (though the
date may be extended) with details of action taken or proposed to be taken,
setting out the timetable for action- or explain why no action is proposed.
As well as the seven prison cases, the total of 60 “non-responses to PDF reports” published today include two cases where people died
shortly after leaving prison and one where a person was serving a community
sentence.
Among the issues raised in the prison cases are the
inadequacy of staff training in first aid and on the suicide prevention scheme;
a lack of national specification in respect of prison healthcare units; and
shortcomings in how welfare checks are conducted.
One of the most far reaching concerns how the duty of
candour applies to the prison service and those individuals working for it whether
employed directly or through a private provider.
It is disappointing that responses have not been made about
these matters on time. Prison Minister Lord Timpson should ensure that in
future they are.
