What incentives work in prison? - A Prisoner Policy Network Consultation

Secondly, the findings section will detail the four major themes which have emerged from the responses: the need to attend to the “basics”, thoughts on the existing IEP scheme, suggestions for change and a call for a broader cultural shift. [...] There could not be a clearer message that any scheme that wants to engage prisoners in a constructive way to improve both their personal prospects and the way of life in the prison has to be built on a secure foundation. [...] In the essay the writers present a case for a “Minimum Term Tariff Review” which “allows all prisoners serving a sentence of mandatory life imprisonment or custody for life to apply to the high court for a review of their minimum term on the grounds of Exceptional Progress”. [...] Again, this is reflected in the draft policy framework: Personal development, and the ability to be a valued and active citizen within the prison community, are likely to be the relevant and motivating factors in making their sentence survivable. [...] NECG Several prisoners reflected on a desire to be a part of something, to vote, to be an active citizen at least within the prison walls; wanting to take some shared responsibility for the prison and having the opportunity to contribute to policy that affects them.