COVID-19

For your information HMPPS have forwarded the following briefing to all Prisons in England and Wales.

Volume 684: debated on Tuesday 24 November 2020

Concerns regarding individual Risk Assessments for vulnerable staff have been raised by POA Committees to the NEC.

Please ensure the contents of this circular are relayed to all POA members.

The POA since March 2020 have worked collaboratively with HMPPS and other employers to find solutions in keeping prisoners and staff safe during the pandemic.

We are now able to confirm the extent of lockdown restrictions that will come into effect from today in Prisons in England. We have included Public Health England Advice for clarity.

The restrictions announced by the Prime Minister on 31st October 2020, which affect England come into force on Thursday 5th November 2020.

Please be aware of the following guidance that has been issued to Governors, ensuring that you adhere to the newly imposed restrictions on social visits.

HMPPS have agreed that if staff choose to wear a face mask whilst on duty, in any area, at any time, they may do so. This will be personal choice and no permission is needed.

The COVID-19 Healthcare Support Appeal (CHSA) is a new, time-limited charity which makes grants to organisations that are supporting health care staff who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on hardship and psychological support.