Context
The MP is concerned about the high rate of mental health problems among prisoners and inadequate support, citing a constituent's son who died by suicide in Pentonville last year. The issue lacks reliable data on its scale.
Question
I am working with a constituent whose son sadly took his own life in Pentonville last year. Although there is a high rate of mental health problems among prisoners, the provision of support is insufficient and reliable data on the scale of the issue is lacking. Will the Government commit to a full review of the support and safeguarding for prisoners with mental health problems?
Answer from Edward Argar
I am grateful to the hon. Lady, and I hope that through her I can pass on my sympathies and condolences to her constituent. I am not aware of the details of that case, but if she wants to write to me, I would be happy to look at that specific case. Sadly, there are too many deaths in custody and every one is a tragedy, so I am always happy to look at ways in which we can better improve the support available to those with mental health conditions or other health conditions that might make them more vulnerable within a custodial environment.
Not addressed: Commitment to a full review of support and safeguarding for prisoners with mental health problems
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