Calls to help jail mental health

THERE are calls for better mental health support inside Tasmania’s prison system after an inmate reportedly selfharmed following ignored cries for assistance.

Prisoners Legal Service Tasmania said it was notified of an incident at Risdon Prison where an inmate allegedly sustained self-inflicted injuries after reportedly presenting to officers for help.

“We are disturbed by reports that a prisoner was badly assaulted on the weekend and that there was a suicide attempt, after a prisoner sought help but was not given it,” PLS chair Greg Barns said.

“The decision by Justice Minister Elise Archer to reduce minimum security has meant many prisoners are placed in areas of the prison which is having an adverse impact on their mental health.

“Further, when a prisoner indicates he or she needs mental health assistance it must be made available to him or her immediately and taken seriously.”

A Justice Department spokeswoman said an alleged Sunday prison assault was referred to Tasmania Police for investigation, “as is standard practice”. “The prisoner was taken to hospital for assessment following the incident but later returned to Risdon

Prison complex,” the spokeswoman said.

“In the interests of the privacy, health and safety of prisoners it is not appropriate for the TPS to comment on selfharm incidents which may occur.”

The spokeswoman said that “security and staffing at [minimum security facility] RBP has actually increased”.

“In addition, two members of therapeutic staff are currently working in RBP as part of the Tasmania Prison Service COVID-19 response,” she said.

“These staff provide seven day a week response capability and are available to respond to any crisis call, including after a self-harm incident, as well as providing support for prisoners with their general mental wellbeing.”

WHEN A PRISONER INDICATES HE OR SHE NEEDS MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE IT MUST BE MADE AVAILABLE TO HIM OR HER IMMEDIATELY AND TAKEN SERIOUSLY

GREG BARNS

If you or someone you know needs help, talk to a GP or health professional, contact a service such as Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, or a 24-hour service such as Lifeline on 13 11 14. In an emergency, call triple-0.