I notice the following was published by Clinks yesterday:-
Following the tragic incidents at Fishmongers Hall in November 2019, HMP Whitemoor in January 2020 and in Streatham in February 2020, Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) put in place a number of restrictions on people in the criminal justice system and on their staff’s attendance at events.
The recent incidents, in particular the one that took place at Fishmonger’s Hall, affected many individuals and organisations in our sector. The loss of life was also a loss of two individuals’ passion and belief in the potential in everyone and in the power of working together to help people to change. But this passion and belief lives on within our sector and we are therefore concerned that any response to these events from either the criminal justice system or our own sector, must be proportionate and not undermine access to services that support desistance and enable people to improve their lives. We are talking to HMPPS to help minimise the impact of these restrictions while also keeping people safe.
The restrictions imposed by HMPPS
1. Temporary suspension of Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) for the purpose of attending public events celebrating offender achievements, and a corresponding suspension of permitting offenders on licence from attending such events.
2. Any such events hosted by HMPPS in a public setting, with planned attendance by prisoners on ROTL or offenders on licence, should not go ahead until further notice.
3. In cases where such an event in a public setting is hosted by a partner organisation, the decision about whether to cancel is for that organisation. However, where events do take place, HMPPS staff should not attend.
4. Internal HMPPS events within prison establishments may go ahead, subject to local risk assessment.
It is possible for Prison Group Directors or Probation Divisional Directors to request permission for events/event attendances to go ahead, by exception, by making a request of their Executive Director, who will liaise with the Joint Extremism Unit ahead of a recommendation going to the relevant Director-General.
Clinks understands that these restrictions are based upon intelligence and assessments by the Security, Order and Counter Terrorism Directorate and the Joint Extremism Unit. HMPPS’ purpose is to reduce the risk of further incidents as far as possible and to keep people safe. We are, however, concerned to ensure that they do not limit access to rehabilitative opportunities across a wide range of people within the criminal justice system or have implications which present a challenge to the sector’s commitment to involve experts by experience in the design and delivery of services. In particular, we are concerned that under these restrictions it is unclear what constitutes “public events celebrating offender achievements” and that this may impact a wide range of criminal justice voluntary sector activities, even if not the intention. We know from discussions with members and partners that there is a lack of knowledge of the restrictions and what may be required of organisations. Furthermore, there is confusion as to how these restrictions may be interpreted, reports of inconsistencies in interpretation and concern as to the longer-term impact if they remain in place for much longer.
We have raised these concerns with HMPPS and are in ongoing discussions with them to pass on feedback from our sector, help them to understand the impact of the restrictions and limit that impact wherever possible. We understand the restrictions will be reviewed in March and we will keep the sector updated with regards to this. Both I and Richard Nicholls, Clinks’ Head of Operations and a member of the Reducing Reoffending Third Sector Advisory Group (RR3), are meeting with the Director General in the next weeks to discuss concerns and seek further clarity.
HMPPS has assured us that they are absolutely committed to supporting rehabilitative activity in our sector and working with organisations facing barriers to their work in this period when restrictions remain in place. Colleagues at HMPPS understand that the restrictions articulated above can’t account for every eventuality so they are happy to receive queries and referrals about events from the sector. If you have questions or concerns about how these restrictions might affect your activities please contact directorgeneralprisons@justice.gov.uk or directorgeneralprobation@justice.gov.uk.
If you have concerns or questions you can also get in touch with us. Richard.nicholls@clinks.org is leading on issues around working safely in the sector and is the best first point of contact.
1. Temporary suspension of Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) for the purpose of attending public events celebrating offender achievements, and a corresponding suspension of permitting offenders on licence from attending such events.
2. Any such events hosted by HMPPS in a public setting, with planned attendance by prisoners on ROTL or offenders on licence, should not go ahead until further notice.
3. In cases where such an event in a public setting is hosted by a partner organisation, the decision about whether to cancel is for that organisation. However, where events do take place, HMPPS staff should not attend.
4. Internal HMPPS events within prison establishments may go ahead, subject to local risk assessment.
It is possible for Prison Group Directors or Probation Divisional Directors to request permission for events/event attendances to go ahead, by exception, by making a request of their Executive Director, who will liaise with the Joint Extremism Unit ahead of a recommendation going to the relevant Director-General.
Clinks understands that these restrictions are based upon intelligence and assessments by the Security, Order and Counter Terrorism Directorate and the Joint Extremism Unit. HMPPS’ purpose is to reduce the risk of further incidents as far as possible and to keep people safe. We are, however, concerned to ensure that they do not limit access to rehabilitative opportunities across a wide range of people within the criminal justice system or have implications which present a challenge to the sector’s commitment to involve experts by experience in the design and delivery of services. In particular, we are concerned that under these restrictions it is unclear what constitutes “public events celebrating offender achievements” and that this may impact a wide range of criminal justice voluntary sector activities, even if not the intention. We know from discussions with members and partners that there is a lack of knowledge of the restrictions and what may be required of organisations. Furthermore, there is confusion as to how these restrictions may be interpreted, reports of inconsistencies in interpretation and concern as to the longer-term impact if they remain in place for much longer.
We have raised these concerns with HMPPS and are in ongoing discussions with them to pass on feedback from our sector, help them to understand the impact of the restrictions and limit that impact wherever possible. We understand the restrictions will be reviewed in March and we will keep the sector updated with regards to this. Both I and Richard Nicholls, Clinks’ Head of Operations and a member of the Reducing Reoffending Third Sector Advisory Group (RR3), are meeting with the Director General in the next weeks to discuss concerns and seek further clarity.
HMPPS has assured us that they are absolutely committed to supporting rehabilitative activity in our sector and working with organisations facing barriers to their work in this period when restrictions remain in place. Colleagues at HMPPS understand that the restrictions articulated above can’t account for every eventuality so they are happy to receive queries and referrals about events from the sector. If you have questions or concerns about how these restrictions might affect your activities please contact directorgeneralprisons@justice.gov.uk or directorgeneralprobation@justice.gov.uk.
If you have concerns or questions you can also get in touch with us. Richard.nicholls@clinks.org is leading on issues around working safely in the sector and is the best first point of contact.
Anne Fox
CEO Clinks
https://www.facebook.com/Knowthedangeruk/posts/2705613299555417?__tn__=K-R
ReplyDeleteBEGINS ……..
"Copied from Mike Rolfe’s personal FB page;
Having setup KTD in 2013; and having been initially issued with ‘cease and desist’ notices by my employer with the threat of losing my job or worse, I am obviously deeply saddened by the news that KTD administrators have been forced to collectively close the KTD staff forum, and effectively scale back the freedom on the main page. KTD has and always will be a big part of my life, and something I am extremely proud to have been involved in. KTD is pure and free from self-importance, greed, dishonesty and corruption, and it has been there to support staff through thick and thin, through probably the worst, most ………….."
Thanks Andrew - let's have the whole statement:-
DeleteCopied from Mike Rolfe’s personal FB page;
Having setup KTD in 2013; and having been initially issued with ‘cease and desist’ notices by my employer with the threat of losing my job or worse, I am obviously deeply saddened by the news that KTD administrators have been forced to collectively close the KTD staff forum, and effectively scale back the freedom on the main page. KTD has and always will be a big part of my life, and something I am extremely proud to have been involved in. KTD is pure and free from self-importance, greed, dishonesty and corruption, and it has been there to support staff through thick and thin, through probably the worst, most violent times that staff have had together in the history of the service.
Over the past 7 years KTD has been a massive staff support, allowing people to engage with other people who understand their problems, and were able to give helpful and supportive advice. Additionally, giving those individuals an outlet for the many issues they have been exposed to. Yes, there have been times when it has been stomach churning to read, and yes there have been comments and issues raised that have not shone a light on the professional and dedicated image of the Prison service that we all know to exist. And, although the main page will remain, the loss of the staff forum will be immeasurable as to how it will affect the spread of good advice, support and information.
However, whilst KTD has been my ‘baby’ that I watched grow, I knew from its infancy that there were individuals that detested its power and influence. I knew that in the latter part of 2013 when I joined the NEC of the POA, that legal advice was being sought by the Union from Thompsons with regards to information being shared and comments being made. I also know that when I was approached by a certain individual on the NEC who wanted his name attached to KTD, and I refused, that there would always be a watchful eye on KTD’s activities and a later attempt to close it down.
So, for 7 years, KTD has flourished into a great source of information, and has clearly led the way in being the voice for staff and indeed everyone affected by the criminal justice sector, that has ensured stories that were previously confined to workplace tea rooms were in everyone’s homes, knowing and discussing Prison issues and the violence staff face. The interest in Prison related issues is clearly identifiable by the number of documentaries and soaps populating our screens; and is definatley in some way linked to KTD’s success and its ability to draw interest to our plight.
So, my involvement in KTD will draw no surprises that I am also the subject of the attack, along with others, from the individual using his position and powerbase to try and silence any critiques and challengers. These personal attacks are nothing new having experienced them whilst on the NEC, but also continually since leaving the position of National Chair. The latest attack is an attempt to remove my employment along with others, silence me and probably halt any alternative union option being established for staff, all the things that KTD has fought against for 7 years.
So, for 7 years, KTD has flourished into a great source of information, and has clearly led the way in being the voice for staff and indeed everyone affected by the criminal justice sector, that has ensured stories that were previously confined to workplace tea rooms were in everyone’s homes, knowing and discussing Prison issues and the violence staff face. The interest in Prison related issues is clearly identifiable by the number of documentaries and soaps populating our screens; and is definatley in some way linked to KTD’s success and its ability to draw interest to our plight.
DeleteSo, my involvement in KTD will draw no surprises that I am also the subject of the attack, along with others, from the individual using his position and powerbase to try and silence any critiques and challengers. These personal attacks are nothing new having experienced them whilst on the NEC, but also continually since leaving the position of National Chair. The latest attack is an attempt to remove my employment along with others, silence me and probably halt any alternative union option being established for staff, all the things that KTD has fought against for 7 years.
Those that know me for the person I am, not just what they perceive me to be, will know I have always stood up for myself, and I will continue to stand up for myself once again, and every single time this individual uses my union, and your funds to wage his unethical war, diverting from his own misgivings and corruption. I will stand my ground and soak up the barrage, and I will continue to support those that are also targeted in this never-ending saga. I believe that eventually the truth will out, and this latest episode of personal threats to individuals via messenger, text, calls or emails, and the use of solicitors to try and close the door on serious unreproachable misconduct cannot go unanswered.
But for now, it’s a time to reflect, overcome the current challenges being faced and step forward once the shackles are lifted. A new union is on the horizon for staff, a new voice that will give people an alternative option. Yes, it will take time to establish and get in place, but rest assured it is coming, and by the appearance of things it cannot come a day too soon.
I can’t make a closing statement without thanking all of the people that have helped make the KTD group a massive success over the years, many unsung heroes, that have been happy to stay out of the limelight, but that have given so much over the last 7 years to ensure the forum has been run, to offer advice and guidance, and to aid the freedom of speech, they are the people that deserve our appreciation and gratefulness. So, a massive thank you to you all, you know who you are!
Thank you to everyone who has supported this group over the years, and I hope it is not too long again before our voices can be heard, perhaps the new union can create a forum, and those voices can be heard through new channels and new individuals, that have the ability, charisma and your interests at the forefront of everything they do! But for now, signing off, stay safe and keep well!
Facebook comments:-
DeleteIt's important for staff to have a whinge post now and again. In many jobs not just in the prison service, to raise your head above the parapet and point out problems or insist that SSOW are followed, is a sure fire way of at best, putting a target on your back; and at worst getting sacked. Good luck to those who did the right thing, in order to help others.
Retired in November 2018 after serving 22 years in HMP. Since 2012 it's been a total shambles..its now a broken service after many years of of being a proud service. .RIP. .keep safe..!!
If they are trying to close you down you must have been doing something right. Don't let anyone use it for the're rise to the top they always sell you out for their own end. Sorry to see you go I was an officer 29 years service.
I agree, but then for a service that until the advent of the internet was behind a closed door, I guess the truth hurts.
Keep the faith you can change things for better but please be safe
You'd think the union would support it instead of shitting on it's members! Thanks for everything you have done and helped with KTD and members of this site, you'll be missed.
What terrible times we live in. Many thanks for your Page and support. Best wishes, good luck and stay safe..
All the best and thank you sincerely.
You only have to look at this Government, if you go against the Dept your out.
It was nothing to do with the government, it was because of an NEC member trying to get two POA members sacked from their jobs as Prison Officers.
It may have started with good intentions but this site just turned in to pie in the sky postings and a whinge fest for some staff to slag off any management level from SO upwards.
Guess it's called freedom of speech which obviously certain parties did not like.
It did, but it also gave an opportunity to challenge views. Dialogue is always good. Even heated dialogue.
Unfortunately a lot of it went from an excellent tool for staff and turned into a vendetta against some of the NEC, whose job is difficult enough as it is this day and age. It was sad to see, and didn’t surprise me to see it close, that indeed if it really has closed?
I think you will find it is an individual in the NEC whom has a vendetta. Threatening someone's livelihood is unforgivable.
Who told you this?
Do you really think I'm going to name people and put them in jeopardy!! The truth has a way of finding the light and it will!
There are two sides to every story, the NEC refuses to drag down KTD anymore that it has done, so would not air dirty linen in public, unfortunately others have including admin, so the personal attacks in view of everybody we’re allowed to continue..... it wouldn’t surprise me if that is the reason it is soon to close, if indeed it will close, it’s still alive and kicking a full day after the announcement.....closing KTD, or bringing it into disrepute has nothing to do with anyone connected to the POA.
The main page of KTD is not closing. It's the staff forum that is closing, and it was stated that could be up to 72 hours after the notice.
Fake news then?
No. It states it clearly in the post if people bother to read it properly!
Only read a couple of paragraphs. Far too much written,
Workplace bullying.
Censorship is alive and well in this country.
Just pass the ownership and admin to someone non HMP , ex HMP and let it continue?
I've never really been convinced by Mike Rolfe. It's just personal opinion, but something makes me a little wary that I can't really put my finger on.
ReplyDeleteWhat I do find interesting however, is the observation of just how closed off many parts of the CJS has been to the general public until the Internet came along attracting so much more attention from media sources. Until the last decade or so the CJS has mostly been operating as a secret society. Crown immunity and no access for media has ment that any image of the CJS could be projected without fear of challange or scrutiny.
Now the reality of what it's really like will always out. If not by those working in it, then by those subjected to it through media access on smart phones and other technological devices.
It's been such a closed shop for centuries. Now in such a very short period of time, technology has enabled the veneers to be pulled back for all to see. The CJS is ill prepared for that, but it needs to accept the winds of change and stop fighting against it.
https://conservativewoman.co.uk/islamists-prison-reign-of-terror-must-be-broken/
'Getafix
I agree 'Getafix and I've certainly been accused of 'having backed the wrong horse' in relation to Rolfe throwing his hat in the ring for Napo Gen Sec. However, it was hugely refreshing that he was actually willing to engage and debate openly in a variety of arenas, in stark contrast to the incumbent of course. What did it for me was him coming out as a Tory though!
DeleteYes you were wrong JB to support Rolfe. His problem is he wants power but has little regard for what that entails. Authority leadership and support from, members is the key to success. He has done little but stir up areas and have no safeguards for the issues raised. In contrast the Fool over in NAFO leaves us cold both because he is not a leader in the sense that he has a real following. He was elected as Rolfe clearly demonstrated he lacked any level of higher skills knowledge. That was demonstrated on this blog debate. The NAFO leader in contrast has gone the other way from Rolf in that he hides the truth secrets are a plenty. The members are denied debate and bullied. Neither are any use as leaders as they are both Narcissists.
DeleteAnon 10:30 Lets get this straight - I gave Mike Rolfe a platform and opportunity of engaging with the membership and he chose to take that offer up. The incumbent declined to engage with the blog or the challenger. Napo members made their choice and history will record if that choice was a good one or not.
DeleteFair enough JB you did offer the platform and the desperado gave the audience an interest as a running outsider. The sad reality is that Nafo had a stark choice . 1 a three legged horse and 2 another other three legged horse. Nafos already stabled 3 legged Gee gee was limping along nicely until an election and judicial review upset any attempts to gallop. The outsider came to the course but fell rather too quickly. getting side tracked by the extra hay and demonstrating a poorly researched course especially in the area of jumping and diving. This left the romp home for the incumbent. However the other Gee gee was able to jump and dive more smoothly and on interview moved the panel by excessive tears at tea time and crying out for continuance. The less objective specially chosen stewards waived on their chosen horse and the winner elected with around 500 votes and on that scale Noddy should have stood. The whole distraction allowed the incumbent an opportunity to evade proper scrutiny and it should have been at that point the direction of leadership in the union should have placed the skills required for this leg of the future squarely with anybody else than what we are stuck with currently.
DeleteMe too
ReplyDelete