Prison visits cut back after covid outbreak

Friday 17 December 2021

Prison visiting hours have been reduced following an outbreak of covid, which has seen nine inmates and eight staff come down with the virus.

A Government spokesperson confirmed to Express that, following advice from STAC, prisoners will now be limited to one physical visit and one virtual per week.

“As of 17 December, the States of Jersey Prison Service (SoJPS) has a total of nine Covid cases amongst prisoners, and eight cases amongst staff,” a Government spokesperson said.

They said that, after regular meetings with STAC, the following measures had been implemented:

• all professional appointments, i.e. with lawyers or probation services, to be done virtually rather than in person;

• a reduction in the regularity of dentist and GP clinics;

• a reduction in the number of visits for prisoners - these will now be limited to one physical visit and one virtual per week;

• all visitors are now required to have a negative PCR test result within 72 hours, prior to entering the prison.

The spokesperson added: “SoJPS will continue to monitor the situation by continuing to conduct regular testing amongst prisoners and staff to provide maximum protection.  

“While a number of restrictions are likely to be required over the festive period to maintain safety for all, every effort is being made to ensure that face to face visits will be possible for prisoners and their families. 

“The service is particularly grateful to the covid testing team who have provided testing capabilities on site, to ensure the spread of the virus is kept as low as possible.”

It comes after Express revealed concerns about the daily rotational wing lockdown system in response to officer shortages in October.