Oral Answers to Questions

David Amess Excerpts

Tuesday 6th September 2016 Commons Chamber

[Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con)]

9. What steps the Government plan to take to tackle mental health issues in prisons.

[Sir David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

15. What steps the Government plan to take to tackle mental health issues in prisons.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Dr Phillip Lee)]

Prisons must become places of rehabilitation where offenders can change their lives and turn away from crime. Addressing health needs, including mental health, is key to creating a safe and rehabilitative environment for prisoners. We are committed to meeting the mental health needs of prisoners. All prisons have procedures in place to identify, manage and support people with mental health illness.

[Dr Lee]

The approach going forward is under consideration at present. Governors have an important part to play in helping to structure healthcare services within their prisons.

[Sir David Amess]

Does the Department have a precise figure for the number of people in prison at the moment who have mental health issues? Will my hon. Friend reassure me that prison staff are adequately trained to deal with people who exhibit mental health issues?

[Dr Lee]

Based on a Ministry of Justice survey, 49% of prisoners were assessed as being at risk from anxiety and/or depression and 16% reported symptoms indicative of psychosis. Department of Health figures, however, are somewhat different; north of 90% of prisoners have a mental health problem if substance misuse is included. I am seeking more data on this area. We are committed to meeting the mental health needs of prisoners, which is why all new intake prison officers receive mental health awareness training as part of their entry-level training.