Prisoner perceptions of the environmental impact on self-harm and suicidal behaviour

Purpose Improving prison safety by reducing self-harm and suicidal behaviour remains a government priority (Ministry of Justice, 2021). This involves developing a better understanding of the relationship between prison environments, self-harm/suicidal behaviour and the prison conditions supporting a reduction in such behaviour. Through interpretive phenomenological analysis, the authors aim to explore prisoners’ perceptions of one prison environment, considering if/how the environment has impacted prisoners need for support via the assessment, care in custody and teamwork (ACCT) process. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with seven prisoners at an adult male establishment who had not been on an ACCT since arriving there but had at least two active ACCT documents in the 12 months prior to transfer. Findings Analysis identified four superordinate themes: facilities, population, mentality and interaction with staff. This research increases understanding of specific factors contributing to prisoner’s lack of need for support via an ACCT document. Research limitations/implications A small sample within one prison for those convicted of sexual offences was used. Therefore, the findings are not fully generalisable to all establishments. The authors did not control for factors beyond the environment that could have contributed to prisoner’s lack of need for support via an ACCT document. Practical implications By conducting research, Forensic Psychologists are uniquely placed to increase research evidence to support the improvement of prison safety, whilst promoting its application in practice. Several recommendations about enhancing prison environments are made. Originality/value The findings provide insight into specific aspects of a prison environment that impacts prisoners’ level of self-harm and suicidal behaviour.