Addressing healthcare inequalities in prisons: the vital role of nursing

This article - the third in a series on stigmas in healthcare - explores the key factors contributing to health inequalities in UK prisons, including environmental constraints, communication barriers, staffing issues and the reactive nature of care in this setting. It highlights the diverse health needs of the prison population, including those with learning disabilities, mental health illness or long-term conditions, and the role of nurses in promoting equitable, person-centred care. Strategies such as peer education, telehealth and trauma-informed practice are discussed as ways to enhance healthcare delivery. The article also calls for greater recognition of the specialist role of prison nurses, and improved education and support for staff working in custodial environments.