Staffordshire prison praised in annual inspection report
A women's prison in Staffordshire provides a safe and secure environment for its inmates, an inspection has found.
HMP Drake Hall in Eccleshall has a capacity of 315 and prisoners are accommodated in 15 houses, each with around 20 rooms.
The annual report by the Ministry of Justice's Independent Monitoring Board describes a number of areas of good practice and suggests possible areas for improvement.
In the report it states: "Drake Hall is a closed category prison and, as befits this status, successfully manages some difficult prisoners.
"The board is satisfied that the prison does this humanely, decently and well, despite the fact that the open environment within its outer fence can sometimes make it difficult.
"Congratulations must be extended to the education department where there has been substantial improvement in learner expectation and standards of quality and performance.
"Input from all staff, learners and prison partners has resulted in sustained improvement with the curriculum developing in partnership to meet the needs of the learners, employers and the local community."
But it goes on to add that the lack of a female doctor needs to be addressed straight away.
"The board considers that a female doctor on site regularly is essential for the well being of the women. It was agreed earlier in 2014 that a female GP would hold a weekly clinic.
"Regrettably this has not materialised. The board recognises that the current provision of a female GP occasionally is an improvement on previous years and waiting times to see her have reduced.
"Many of the women have previously been abused by men, some women feel reluctant to discuss certain areas of their health with a male doctor; for others there are cultural or religious reasons why they might prefer to see a woman doctor.
"The regular provision of this is proving problematic and the board urges prompt action to remedy the situation.
"Overall, the board continues to believe that Drake Hall provides a safe and secure environment for prisoners where they are treated with humanity and decency. The prison upholds a committed emphasis on preparing the women for resettlement."
A new unit at the prison was opened by Justice Minister Simon Hughes last month.
The new facility can house up to 25 offenders in open conditions. It prepares them for release and also ensures links to their children are maintained during their sentence.
The new unit features a facility which allows children of prisoners to stay overnight with their mothers for a meaningful visit.
