HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) is planning for more video conferencing, a wider use of digital tools and the replacement of legacy systems as part of its new digital strategy.
The strategy for 2021-22, published this month, highlights the need to update systems and use digital technology in improving the rehabilitation of prisoners.
It includes reprocuring video calling software for prisons and probation, with the aim of supporting rehabilitation and remote supervision. This will come wit the development of an integrated video conferencing strategy across HMPPS.
This is accompanied by a plan to give access to every inmate of closed prisons access to a laptop or tablet, and rolling out in-cell technology to all youth custody institutions, while also giving people on probation a role in their sentence using digital.
In a reply to a parliamentary question last week, Prisons Minister Alex Chalk MP said there are plans to install in-cell technology at 11 adult prisons over 2021-22 and that a preferred supplier has been identified for the new video calling software with the expectation of signing the contract soon.
This aligns with the launch of a £20 million challenge fund by the Ministry of Justice earlier this year for projects on developing new technology solutions to support prison levers.
Changing systems
Another feature is the development of a long term strategy to replace legacy systems by 2024, a redesign of how to create prisoner records, issue licences and calculate sentences, and continuing to improve live services such as the digital Prisoner Escort Service and Prison Offender Manager.
An additional element involves developing a digital product to provide prison governors with data insights to manage prisons.
“After a year living through the Covid-19 pandemic, the need to modernise HMPPS estates and technology is more pressing than ever,” chief executive of the service Dr Jo Farrar says in the document’s foreword.
“We want services that are fit for the internet era, that meet the expectations of people that use them and work on them, and allow us to better adapt to the need for remote working, learning and relationships.”
Image from iStock, 1shoshtak
