Inspection Reveals Progress and Ongoing Challenges at Polmont Young Offenders Institution
A follow-up inspection at Polmont Young Offenders Institution, near Falkirk, conducted after the suicides of two inmates, identified both progress and persistent "systemic obstacles" within the facility.
Inspectors noted a continued lack of "purposeful activity," with young men spending excessive time locked in their cells, and highlighted the need for improvements in cell safety measures.
However, the report commended enhanced monitoring efforts, including the introduction of a new "Talk to Me" suicide prevention process and a dedicated phoneline for families to raise concerns.
This inspection follows a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) held last year, which determined that the deaths of Katie Allan and William Lindsay in 2018 could have been prevented if not for a "catalogue of failures" at Polmont.
Allan, aged 21, and Brown, aged 16, died by suicide in separate incidents at the institution.
Following the joint FAI, Sheriff Simon Collins issued 25 recommendations, concluding that reasonable precautions could have averted these deaths.
In August, HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland, in collaboration with Health Improvement Scotland, conducted a follow-up inspection. The report acknowledged that "dedicated staff" had diligently worked to implement the FAI recommendations.
Nonetheless, the inspectors found that staff efforts were often hindered by systemic issues such as insufficient resources and staff shortages.
The physical and mental health of young inmates was now assessed upon arrival; however, some new arrivals came too late in the day and had to wait until the following morning for a full assessment.
During the inspection, there were two instances where young men were admitted after 23:00.
A "Talk to Me" process was introduced for the first 72 hours after arrival, fulfilling a key FAI recommendation by enhancing monitoring and facilitating discussions of suicide risk during case conferences.
However, no additional resources were allocated to support this process, resulting in increased workload pressures elsewhere. For example, some other support services, such as those provided by a "named nurse," were no longer consistently available.
The FAI had also called for improvements in cell safety. Inspectors found that Polmont still lacks a dedicated care suite, which they consider essential for supporting young people experiencing acute distress.
Some suicide risk reduction measures have been implemented, such as the removal of bunk beds and doorstops, but no cell was entirely ligature-free or suicide-proof.
Even in cells designated as "safer cells," the possibility of self-harm remained.
A trial of "signs of life" technology, which monitors movement or heart rate and was recommended by the FAI, is underway and may enhance monitoring capabilities.
Excessive Time Spent in Cells
A significant concern highlighted by the inspection was the lack of "purposeful activity" available to young men. Some activities were unavailable, limited in variety, or frequently cancelled due to staff shortages.
Most young inmates were offered only a minimum of one hour of fresh air and 45 minutes of social time daily, with early morning sessions poorly attended.
Work and educational activities were provided but with limited capacity; during one morning of the inspection, fewer than 20% of young inmates participated in activities outside the main residential hall.
Staff received praise for their awareness of bullying and the procedures in place to address it.
A dedicated 24/7 concern phone line, another FAI recommendation, was prominently displayed on the institution's website, as observed by inspectors.
However, family attendance at case conferences remained limited, and some young men experienced difficulties accessing visits, particularly during family-friendly times, due to sharing visiting slots with adult inmates.
Staff Commended for Efforts
Sara Snell, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland, acknowledged the hard work of staff in implementing the FAI recommendations and delivering high-quality case conferences.
"Young men in Polmont continue to spend far too long locked in their cells with too few opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, and maintain positive mental health.
Improving outcomes for these young men requires sustained, cross-agency commitment and the right resources in the right places."
The Scottish Prison Service highlighted the report's recognition of "the excellent work of our staff in supporting young people," noting that this effort is ongoing.
A spokesperson stated: "Since the inspection we have made significant progress at HMP & YOI Polmont, including continued investment to support time out of cells, an improved induction programme, and enhanced family contact."
Justice Secretary Angela Constance expressed that she was "encouraged" by the progress made at the institution but emphasized that "further work" remains.
"The report acknowledges the clear focus given to the FAI recommendations, noting that HMP & YOI Polmont has implemented a number of actions within its control and engaged constructively with partners on wider measures, including the introduction of in-cell signs-of-life technology.
I am pleased that the report highlights good examples of prison and external agency staff who bring the right skills alongside the genuine commitment, understanding, and dedication needed to build trust with young people and motivate their willing participation."
Each death in custody is a tragedy, and our deepest sympathies remain with the families, friends and staff affected."
