Independent investigation into an incident of life-threatening self-harm involving ‘AF’[1] at HMP Leicester on 6 May 2016
[1] A pseudonym is used to protect the identity of the individual concerned.
The report of the independent investigation conducted by Rob Allen into the incident of life-threatening self-harm involving ‘AF’ at HMP Leicester on 6 May 2016 is published here. Also published is the response to the investigation from His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and Practice Plus Group.
On 6 May 2016 ‘AF’ was discovered hanging in their cell at HMP Leicester. Staff administered first aid, including CPR, before paramedics arrived and ‘AF’ was taken to hospital. ‘AF’ sustained a serious and long-term brain injury and resides in a rehabilitation unit.
In order to meet the State’s investigative obligation under Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, Rob Allen, former Director of the International Centre for Prison Studies at Kings College London, was commissioned to conduct an independent investigation to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident of life-threatening self-harm involving ‘AF’ and to see what lessons can be learned.
The investigation report completed by Rob Allen is published, along with the responses to the recommendations from those responsible for commissioning and providing custodial and healthcare services at the prison.