Kane Boyce

“We are currently working on a new policy framework on the follow-up to deaths in custody (replacing PSI 64/2011) and intend to use that to mandate the early learning review process, and to make clear that it is the responsibility of the Prison Group Director to satisfy themselves of the quality of the ELR before signing the report off. Alongside the new policy framework, we will issue a revised standard template and a refreshed guidance document.”

“Sodexo agrees that wilfully ignoring cell bells is a wholly dangerous practice and one that is not permitted by Sodexo in any circumstances. Sodexo requires all cell bells at HMP Lowdham Grange to be answered within 5 minutes.”

“The Governor's Order, already attached as Appendix 1, makes clear that power should not be isolated to a cell unless approved by the Duty Director (which would be either Director or Deputy Director within Sodexo) on the grounds of health and safety.”

“Policy Sodexo have concerns about the practices of the staff that transferred to Sodexo with HMP Lowdham Grange. These include failures of staff to conduct observations and follow the Under the Influence Policy. This is part of an ongoing culture change that we are trying to address but one that takes time and has to date involved changes to Senior Managers and Officers at the prison. The Governor's Order, Appendix 1, makes it clear that staff are to open an under the influence log and inform”

“Sodexo follow the national Prison Service Instruction 64/2011 which provides the framework underpinning any local policy. Sodexo deliver to staff the national training package issued by HMPPS for ACCT, version 6 and ACCT Assessor. To enable this Sodexo facilitators complete the national ACCT Train the Trainer course delivered by HMPPS facilitators. Relevant Sodexo staff also receive the national training package delivered directly by HMPPS facilitators on ACCT Case Coordinators.”

“The MOJ have confirmed that all managers, including the Senior Leadership Team, are to undergo the national ACCT training as a matter of urgency, this will include ACCT Assessor training and case manager training. When the operational management of the prison returns to Sodexo all staff will undergo ACCT refresher training, if not done before.”

“Following a death in custody at a Sodexo prison (whilst under Sodexo operational management) an Early Learning Review is required - this should be completed within 7 days. The Early Learning Review notes areas of good practice and recommendations, the Director is expected to ensure that any recommendations are complied with - alongside any recommendations made by the PPO.”