Here's what Scotland's jail staff says about overcrowding
The Prison Officers' Association published a survey with the views of more than 400 members.
In it, they warned that the system is on the verge of collapse as there is not enough staff, training opportunities and space in Scottish jails.
When asked, 95.5% of respondents agreed that rising prisoner numbers make the facilities more dangerous for staff and residents.
86.6% stated that due to the overcrowding, there is more sickness and absence among workers.
Also, 80.21% said there are not enough employees to cope with the volume of inmates.
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Here's what Scotland's jail staff says about overcrowding (Image: Newsquest)
Barlinnie, Glasgow (Image: Colin Mearns)
One responder suggested: 'Do not house prisoners like battery hens.'
Another said: "Increase prison spaces by physically building more spaces.'
A third wrote: 'Scotland must critically examine the root causes of its high crime rates and explore how community-based initiatives can create a safer, more equitable society.'
A fourth added: 'There are not enough public mental health facilities, especially for women. People are being sent to prison as a place of safety due to their mental health.
"This is not an acceptable practice'
A fifth commented: 'Staff recruitment needs to be scrutinised and those currently in a position need to be held accountable for the poor choices being made when recruiting."
Several participants noted that the retirement age should be lowered from the current 68 to 60, in line with other emergency services.
Some argued that the stress of the job is reducing employees' life expectancy.
Many responses also highlighted that the justice system needs to explore community-based disposals as an alternative to short-term sentences.
(Image: Colin Mearns)
HMP Glasgow plan (Image: SPS)
In a recent report, His Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons in Scotland concluded that overcrowding is Barlinnie's main issue.
During 2023/24, the average annual population was 1367, despite having been designed to house 987 men.
Its larger replacement, HMP Glasgow, is currently under construction and is expected to be operational by 2028.
A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: 'Our staff are our greatest asset. Every day, prison officers do outstanding work in the most challenging circumstances, and it is crucial that their voice is heard.
'This important report demonstrates the risk they face from a rising and complex prison population, the impact this has on their health and wellbeing and on their ability to do their jobs effectively.
'We need to see a reduction in our population, so that our staff can fully support people in our care, to reduce their risk of reoffending, and help build the safer communities we all want to see.'
The Scottish Government was approached for comment.
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