Question reference: S6W-20439
- Date lodged: 7 August 2023
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Current status: Answered by Angela Constance on 4 September 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its response is to reports in the Angus area of prisoners being unable to attend children’s hearings, regarding their children, due to staff shortages at the prison escort service, GEOAmey.
Answer
I have asked Teresa Medhurst, Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), to respond. Her response is as follows:
SPS recognises the importance of attendance at Children’s Hearings for those in prisons and their families and remains committed to working with GEOAmey and all Multi-Agency Liaison Group partners, to improve contract performance.
SPS, The Scottish Children's Reporter Administration and GEOAmey are working collaboratively to address the current challenges in service delivery. SPS is also continuing to support GEOAmey in improving their staff recruitment and retention to meet the current and future demand for service in this important area of the Justice Sector.