Equality, diversity and faith

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• The centre has a designated person acting as a single point of contact for equality and diversity.
• Staff actively promote a culture which respects difference and individuality.
• Staff receive specialist and comprehensive training on protected and minority characteristics. They understand and respond appropriately to prisoners from all backgrounds.
• Clear systems are in place to minimise all forms of discrimination or disadvantage.
• There is a system to report and investigate incidents and complaints of discrimination. Prisoners are aware of it and able to use it.
• Investigations of and responses to incidents and complaints are timely, based on full consideration of the facts, deal directly with the concern raised and seek advice where needed.
• There is independent external scrutiny of equality and diversity complaints processes.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• The needs of prisoners with protected and minority characteristics are identified and met. Remedial action to improve outcomes is taken promptly and evaluated to make sure appropriate interventions and support are in place.
• Subject to relevant security considerations, prisoners can speak to staff from the wider prison and external agencies to seek advice and support.
• The centre’s accommodation meets the needs of all prisoners.
• The centre’s regime and activities meet diverse needs.
• Awareness of the needs of people with protected and minority characteristics is promoted by educational and celebratory events.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met, but do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• Prisoners have easy access to corporate worship and faith-based classes and groups and can meet with chaplains in private.
• Staff supervision of faith services is respectful and proportionate.
• If a prisoner is excluded from corporate worship due to concerns about risk, alternative provision is provided where possible.
• Worship areas are equipped with facilities and resources for all faiths, are accessible and permit contemplation, reflection and prayer.
• Prisoners can obtain, keep and use artefacts that have religious significance.
• Prisoners can fulfil religious lifestyle requirements, including dietary requirements.
• Searches of prisoners and their property are conducted in a religiously and culturally sensitive manner.
• Prisoners can celebrate all major religious festivals.
• Chaplains work closely with other staff in the unit for the benefit of prisoners and maintain links with faith communities outside the prison and family members, according to prisoners’ individual needs.
• Chaplains are consulted about prisoners they are involved with, for example when reviewing individual care and management plans.
• Prisoners can seek support from chaplains.
• A member of the chaplaincy team visits those who are segregated every day.
• Staff and chaplains are aware of issues related to radicalisation and have appropriate training in how to manage this.