Report of the Inquiry into the circumstances of the Death of Bernard ...

ehaviour, achievements, interaction with staff and prisoners, cleanliness, disciplinary
awards, compliance with sentence planning targets and any other relevant information”.
23.20 The policy statement emphasises that the scheme improves care for prisoners
but also improves staff safety and promotes a safer prison.
Communications and record-keeping
23.21 I have described in paragraphs 22.9 and 22.10:
the requirements in national policy and at Manchester for recording use of force
and injuries to prisoners and for management and monitoring of incidents.
Governor Vince told the inquiry that: reports on use of force require staff to make a full
statement of the circumstances, including how they tried to de-escalate the situation; that
prisoners are asked to make a statement about non-accidental injuries; and that Injury to
Inmate forms are reviewed by a responsible manager and logged by the Safer Custody
Manager.
23.22 The inquiry was told that every new entry prison officer at Manchester receives
training on the importance of keeping clear and accurate records. This is reflected in
annual performance reports and on team meeting agendas. Individuals whose
performance falls below the required standard should have this recorded on staff
performance and development reports for improvement. Record-keeping also features in
management checks and audit.
Healthcare
23.23 I have described earlier in the report
Healthcare arrangements in the segregation unit at Manchester where there is a
dedicated mental health nurse (see above, paragraphs 13.18-13.21).
Electronic medical records which can be accessed by authorised staff from
terminals though not yet in the segregation unit (see above, paragraph 13.22).
Issues raised by the Samaritans
23.24 The Manchester Samaritans and the Safer Prisons Coordinator described a
thriving Listeners scheme but some logistical difficulties (see above, paragraphs 14.38
to14.42).
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