Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what plans they have to address the findings of Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons’ report of an unannounced inspection of HMP Ranby, published on 24 July, in respect of the condition of the play area for the children of those visiting prisoners, plans to develop services, the lack of a family support worker and the lack of a parenting course.

Funding has now been secured to replace and renew current toys and equipment and the list of appropriate items is being finalised. A local initiative has recently been set up whereby staff donate good quality toys and books, resulting in a significant improvement to toys and books available. Storybook dads is being delivered and extended to a larger percentage of the population. Surestart has been approached with a view to offering support during visits. A Parenting Course is being developed with a view to it being delivered by a voluntary sector organisation. Further opportunities are also being explored with voluntary sector organisations who can assist in developing the family and children pathway.