I wonder if the tide is turning in the way in which we treat those in prison?                             

Two stories in the last week seem to suggest that some of the bad old policies of Chris Grayling, the previous minister responsible for barbaric changes in the treatment of prisoners, may be things of the past.

According to the Ministry of Justice, there were 100 babies who spent some time in prison during 2015. This appears to be a figure which has shocked the Prime Minister. He gave a speech last week suggesting that alternatives have to be found so that mothers are not in prison with their babies.

More remarkably when Chris Grayling was in charge he introduced a policy to prevent prisoners having access to books! However, last week the Duchess of Cornwall visited Brixton Prison to learn more about its rehabilitation programmes. In particular, as part of her role with the National Literacy Trust, she visited the Books Unlocked reading group.

So there is some cause for optimism that things may be changing. Sadly the sobering fact is that there is still much to do. The latest figures from INQUEST on deaths in prison are appalling.

Any change for the better in the way in which we treat those in prison is to be welcomed. However, there is no room to be complacent or to lose sight of the true picture when we are fed ‘good news’ stories by the press. It is time for change - at every level so that ALL those in prison are looked after properly and humanely.

We believe that prisons and police officers should be held accountable for their actions. This means occasionally taking action against something the state has done. Our expert Actions Against Police solicitors, based in Liverpool city centre, can help you with you case.

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