New report claims Scottish prison bosses ignore drug use for easier control of inmates through “zombification”.
Prison bosses might be ignoring the problem, the report suggests. It says they find it easier to control drugged inmates, who become “zombified” and less trouble. No one can do that!
The study looked at five prisons and found that prisoners lack education programs. This boredom leads to more drug abuse as prisoners want more education to help them.
One prisoner said officials “tacitly approved” drug use and dealing. They control inmates by making them weak, he added. Education could make prisoners better people, but officials see it as a threat, stopping rehab.
Another inmate noted a rise in drug use, saying people who used to be okay are now struggling because they’re bored with nothing else to do.
One politician criticised the lack of action on prison drugs and added that education is vital for prisoner rehabilitation. Another said current figures show a drop in educational opportunities.
The report mentions issues with accessing education as prisoners often lack awareness of programs. There are many barriers, even when they know, and limited spaces present further challenges.
A staff member claimed political leaders don’t value education, saying education is the only thing that changes lives.
The Scottish Prison Service has a new strategy that aims to improve access to education. Their goal is to help prisoners learn, but they face a huge challenge with the prison population.
The Scottish Government says prisoners are assessed and given chances to prepare for release. This helps reduce crime and protects everyone.