Prison unrest triggers crisis talks

The disturbance, which CYP Now understands involved damage to up to 30 cells and saw a number of offenders moved to other institutions, was the fourth serious incident at the prison this year, according to the Prison Officers' Association.

The association said a prison officer was attacked with an iron bar during the incident, which happened during the recent prison worker strikes. Now staff are calling for more protection such as extendable batons to help them deal with incidents.

Glyn Travis, spokesman for the association, said: "There's a loss of control and discipline. There is very little staff can do to instil discipline and understanding of rules and regulations without a fear of being accused of abuse or assault."

A spokesman for the Youth Justice Board said the issue was a matter for the prison service, as the board does not run or manage institutions.

But the Ministry of Justice insisted staff had been "in control" of the disturbance, which began on 29 August. A spokeswoman said: "All prisoners were safely located in their cells during the disorder. Staff remained in control, taking appropriate measures to maintain the safety of staff and prisoners. The wings remained secure and undamaged cells continued to be used normally. All damaged cells have now been repaired."

Criminal justice minister Maria Eagle said in Parliament in July that a previous disturbance at the YOI lasted 20 minutes and involved 16 young people.