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Council of Europe – New recommendation to protect mental health of prisoners and probationers
The Council of Europe has issued a Recommendation to its 46 member states to enhance the mental health support available to prisoners and probationers while ensuring their dignity is fully respected. Given the high prevalence of mental health issues among these groups, the Recommendation calls for equal access to healthcare, similar to what is provided to the general population.
It emphasizes the need for specialized training for prison and probation staff to better understand and respond to mental health issues. Authorities should ensure proper screening by qualified professionals to identify those with mental disorders, followed by further assessment and consent-based treatment. Clear protocols should also be in place to address self-harm and suicide risks with immediate intervention.
To promote good mental health, prisons and probation services should create a supportive environment, offer access to mental health services, encourage physical and creative activities, and facilitate community reintegration. Security measures should never compromise mental health protection, and ethical, medical, and human rights standards must always be upheld. The implementation of this Recommendation will be monitored by the Council for Penological Co-operation (PC-CP) and the European Committee on Crime Problems (CDPC).
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