Bullying in prison

There is no Prison Service Order or Prison Service Instruction which deals specifically with the issue of bullying in prison. However, PSI 64/ 2011, Management of prisoners at risk of harm to self, to others and from others (Safer Custody), contains guidance as to how issues of bullying should be dealt with.

Bullying can manifest itself in many different forms: emotional, physical, psychological and verbal. PSI 64/ 2011 recognises this, and can be accessed here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/offenders/psis/prison-service-instructions-2011

What is the prison's approach to bullying?

The National Offender Management ("NOMS") Service has a zero tolerance approach to violence.NOMS also has a duty of care to those affected by violence. 

PSI 64/ 2011, Chapter 7 states:

"Every verbal or physical act of violence must be challenged. Appropriate sanctions for perpetrators must be applied robustly, in a fair and consistent manner.  Victims must be supported and protected."

With regards to non-physical bullying, Chapter 7 also states:

"All incidents of violence must be challenged be they physical, verbal and/or emotional. There a range of options available to staff starting with speaking to the prisoner concerned to make them aware that their behaviour will not be tolerated and that sanctions may be imposed.  The sanctions may be used incrementally or in combination, depending on the seriousness of the incident and/or the wishes of the victim."

What impact could bullying have on a prisoner?

PSI 64/ 2011 indicates the following:

• Reluctance to leave cell;
• Cell is empty of personal possessions;
• Disruptive behaviours displayed by a prisoner in order to remove himself from potential violence or conflict e.g. to segregation unit.

What measures can prison staff take to address the effects of bullying?

PSI 64/ 2011 suggests the following positive measures:

• Encourage proximity to staff while on association or movement between activities to promote safety and build self-confidence;
• Check in cell possessions against the prisoner’s property card (this can also be applied to perpetrators)
• Speak to the prisoner to ascertain any underlying concerns for safety;
• Address poor personal hygiene;
• Support prisoners to gain employment in order to be self sufficient and not rely on other prisoners;
• Encourage victims to reflect on their own behaviours that may result in acts of violence or confrontation from others.

Here you can read a report prepared by the Prison and Probation Ombudsman on the issues surrounding violence and bullying: http://www.ppo.gov.uk/docs/PPO_report_-_violence_reduction_web_.pdf