Vulnerable prisoners

Staff are trained to spot prisoners at risk of bullying, suicide or self-harm. The prisoner may get their own case manager who will make sure they:

  • are asked about their mental health, for example if they鈥檙e feeling depressed
  • get regular support from a health specialist

Most prisons also have 鈥榣istener schemes鈥� that offer emotional support in confidence - normally from fellow prisoners.

Psychiatric hospitals

A prisoner can be moved to a secure psychiatric hospital for their own safety. This only happens if they meet certain conditions under the .

Once the prisoner gets better, they return to prison.

If you鈥檙e worried about a prisoner

If you鈥檙e worried about a prisoner:

  • tell a member of prison staff when you visit
  • contact the prison鈥檚 鈥楽afer Custody Team鈥�

Some prisons run confidential Safer Custody hotlines where you can leave a message explaining your concerns. Find a prison and check the contact section for details.