Werrington YOI fails on mental health support
Neil Puffett
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Young offenders with mental health problems and learning needs are not getting the help they need, an independent inspection of a young offender institution (YOI) has found.
"We recognise that such provision continues to be scanty and urge that the minister, in full knowledge of the pressing need, will pursue proper provision of therapeutic and safe places," the report states.
It also flagged up concerns that no national programme has been developed for juvenile sex offenders.
"It is unjust that older offenders have access to such programmes yet juveniles, for whom there is perhaps more hope of rehabilitation, are ignored," the report states. "To refer governors in the juvenile estate to expensive charitable organisations is no answer in these financially stringent times."
Levels of healthcare were also highlighted as being of a lesser level than available in the community.
Werrington YOI did receive praise in other areas with staff commended for "fair treatment and respect for all".
Penelope Gibbs, director of the Prison Reform Trust’s strategy to reduce child and youth imprisonment, said: "Given the very high incidence of mental health problems and learning difficulties it is shocking that a YOI should not have access to the right help."
