Give prisoners vitamin pills to rein in violent behaviour

VITAMIN pills should be handed out to young inmates to make them less violent, an independent review has said, after research found prisoners behave better if they eat well.

The Independent Review of Sport in Justice report called on ministers to give away dietary supplements and provide better food to under-21s behind bars after a study showed a 35 per cent improvement in behaviour when inmates were given vitamins.

In response, the Government last night vowed to review prison menus for young people and teach them how to cook food to improve their sporting ability. In another step, canteen stock lists will be reviewed after research suggested over half of food items available for purchase in some establishments were high in fat or sugar.

Older inmates should be allowed to buy protein shakes to improve wellbeing, the report said, while “peer-led” yoga or spinning classes could be considered “where appropriate”.

The review, carried out by Rosie Meek, a professor of criminological psychology, said: “Poor diet affects health and behaviour. Diet and nutrition are not only important features of health promotion, they also have a direct impact on behaviour and mood.”

Experts also said healthy options should be made cheaper to encourage young people to buy them when behind bars – as they are often more expensive than less healthy options like crisps and sweets.

In response to the report, ministers have, however, rejected calls to teach boxing and martial arts to those behind bars amid fears it would put staff at risk of increased aggression.

Prof Meek said utilisation of sport across prisons and youth custody is “inconsistent and underdeveloped”, adding: “There is already evidence that sport can have a positive impact on people in custody and I hope that the recommendations outlined in the review will help to improve the lives of people in our justice system.”

Edward Argar, a justice minister, said: “Sport ... is a central pillar for helping young offenders to build skills that will ultimately reduce reoffending and help them to turn their backs on crime for good.”