Remit
The Justice Committee has launched an inquiry to consider issues around the opportunity prisoners have to engage in purposeful activity in the course of their imprisonment, in particular-
What is meant by 'purposeful' activity and how can this be measured;
The extent to which prisoners have an opportunity to engage in purposeful activity;
What are the perceived benefits of purposeful activity and whether there are any examples of best practice;
What barriers may exist to prevent prisoners engaging in such activities;
Whether access to purposeful activities is consistent across the prison estate; and
Whether access to such activity can be improved.
Evidence
Written evidence
The Committee issued a call for evidence. The closing date for submissions was Friday 26 January 2013.
Read the call for evidence
Read the news release on the call for evidence
Read the written submissions received
Fact finding visits
In addition to the formal evidence taking sessions, the Committee also undertook a number of visits to prisons across Scotland.
View pictures from Christine Grahame and Alison McInnes MSPs’ visit to HMP YOI Polmont
View pictures from Alison McInnes MSP’s visit to HMP Addiewell
Members discussed the key issues which arose from these visits at the Committee’s meeting on 29 January 2013.
Oral evidence
The Committee took oral evidence at the following meetings:
29 January : Scottish Prison Service
5 February : Benefits and delivery of purposeful activities (2 panels)
26 February : Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Chief Executive, Scottish Prison Service
Report
The Committee published its report on its inquiry on 28 March 2013.
Further information relating to the inquiry can be obtained from the clerks to the Committee on 0131 348 5047 or by e-mail [email protected]