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Voices of Prisoners: Experiences Shared with Let’s Be Heard – A Case Study

Published on: February 17, 2025

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Table of contents

- Abbreviations and Key Terms
+ Executive Summary
What is Let's Be Heard? Purpose of this case study Main observations Prisoner views on lessons to be learned Download this Executive Summary as a PDF Download an Easy Read version of this Executive Summary
+ 1. Introductions
1.1 Introduction to case study 1.2 The Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry and Let’s Be Heard 1.3 Context: Information on Scottish prisons
+ 2. Methodology
2.1 Who were the respondents? 2.2 Demographic snapshot of Scottish prisons 2.3 Related studies
+ 3. Analysis of Four Key Themes
3.1 Institutional responses and challenges 3.2 Compounded impacts 3.3 Barriers to healthcare 3.4 Mental health
+ 4. Prisoner Insights and Lessons
4.1 Preventative measures 4.2 Responsive actions
+ 5. References
+ ANNEX A: Additional quotes from prisoners
On pandemic planning and preparation: On communication between prisoners and authorities: On staff training and compliance with infection control procedures: On protective equipment and cleaning measures: On disruptions to justice processes and court proceedings: On prison progression and rehabilitation: On the easing of restrictions: On the suspension of work, exercise and education programmes: On the challenges with personal hygiene and cleanliness: On food quality and meal conditions: On access to healthcare: On access to testing: On mental health:
+ ANNEX B: Help and Support
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Abbreviations and Key Terms

Content

Content Warning:

Please be aware that some parts of this report may be distressing or raise issues of concern for some readers. There are a range of services available if you require support after reading this paper, which can be found at the end of this document.

TermMeaning
InquiryScottish COVID-19 Inquiry
COPDChronic obstructive pulmonary disease
EHRCEqualities and Human Rights Commission
EUPDEmotionally Unstable Personality Disorder - also known as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
HMPHis Majesty’s Prison
LBHLet’s Be Heard
NHSNational Health Service
PPEPersonal Protective Equipment
PTSDPost Traumatic Stress Disorder
SPSScottish Prison Service