News

HMP Parc under intense scrutiny over deaths, escalating violence and drug abuse

Published

2 weeks ago

August 30, 2024

HMP Parc, one of the UK’s largest category B prisons, has found itself at the centre of a growing scandal as it struggles to contain an escalating crisis marked by rampant violence, drug abuse, and a disturbing number of inmate deaths. The prison, managed by the private security firm G4S, has come under intense scrutiny as the situation within its walls continues to deteriorate, leading to widespread concern among authorities, families, and the public.

In recent months, HMP Parc has been the site of several brutal assaults that have raised alarm about the safety and security within the prison. In one particularly harrowing incident, a 42-year-old inmate was severely beaten in his cell, leaving him with disfiguring injuries that his family described as making him look “like the Elephant Man.”

The recent assault, involved three other inmates who reportedly attacked the man using a tuna tin wrapped in a sock and pool cues. The victim sustained serious injuries, including a lip that required extensive stitching, and a shoeprint bruise across his face.

According to the inmate’s family, the attack was motivated by postcode rivalries and the victim’s “reputation” within the prison. The family alleged that the attackers, younger inmates from Cardiff, targeted the victim, who is from Aberdare, to make an example of him. The man, who was due for release in two weeks, had been trying to keep a low profile to avoid conflict, but his efforts were tragically unsuccessful.

G4S, while acknowledging the incident, disputed the severity of the family’s claims. A spokesperson stated that the inmate’s injuries were minor and that no weapons were involved. The inmate was treated at A&E and returned to his cell within hours. However, this response has done little to allay concerns about the level of violence that has become commonplace at HMP Parc.

The violence at HMP Parc is only one aspect of the broader crisis engulfing the prison. Since February 2024, ten inmates have died under circumstances that have yet to be fully explained, although many of the deaths are suspected to be drug-related. This spate of deaths has prompted multiple investigations and has drawn national attention to the conditions within the prison.

The use of synthetic opioids, particularly “spice” laced with fentanyl, is believed to be a significant factor in the fatalities. These drugs, which mimic the effects of cannabis but are far more dangerous, have been smuggled into the prison and have contributed to overdoses among inmates. The presence of these substances has created a perilous environment, exacerbating tensions and leading to a series of near-fatal incidents.

The alarming number of deaths led to the replacement of HMP Parc’s director, Heather Whitehead, in June 2024. Whitehead had only been in her role since August 2023, but the mounting pressure from the ongoing crisis necessitated a change in leadership. Will Styles, a seasoned veteran of the prison service, was appointed as the new director to address the myriad challenges facing the institution.

The situation at HMP Parc took another dark turn with the arrest and subsequent conviction of Jodie Beer, a 30-year-old prison officer, for smuggling drugs into the prison. Beer, who was caught in February 2022, had been offered £5,000 by an inmate to bring contraband into the facility. The smuggled items included Class A drugs such as cocaine, as well as cannabis, buprenorphine, mobile phones, and SIM cards, all concealed in orange juice cartons.

Beer was arrested in the prison car park after officers searched her vehicle and discovered the contraband. During her trial in June 2024, Beer pleaded guilty to several charges, including possession with intent to supply drugs and misconduct in public office. Her defence cited mental instability and drug addiction as factors contributing to her criminal actions. She was jailed for six years.

Sarah Ingram from the Crown Prosecution Service told The Herald: “What Beer did in arranging to take large amounts of controlled drugs into the prison where she worked was a gross breach of trust. The drugs had been prepped to take into the prison and were clearly for onward supply. As a prison officer she was in a position of responsibility and her behaviour fell far below the standards that are expected.”

The arrest of Beer has highlighted the broader issues of corruption and misconduct within HMP Parc, further complicating efforts to restore order and safety in the facility. The Regional Organised Crime Unit for South Wales, which handled the investigation, has emphasised that the actions of individuals like Beer should not overshadow the dedication and integrity of the majority of prison staff who adhere to the highest standards of conduct.

Rioting broke out at Parc prison in South Wales last week, just days after it was announced that a tenth prisoner had died at the jail in a three-month period.

G4S, the company which runs the troubled jail, said that around 20 prisoners had been involved in a disturbance on Friday, May 31. We reported at the time that a ‘Tornado Team’ – the Prison Service riot squad – was sent in to quell the disorder, and that prisoners had been hurt but their injuries were not life-threatening. An air ambulance reportedly attended before being stood down.

A second, separate incident on the same day was said by G4S to be unrelated, involving “an altercation between three prisoners who required hospital treatment”. No staff were injured in either incident. Prisoners’ families and inside sources had described the unrest as a riot.

On May 29, G4S announced that the tenth prisoner to die at Parc since February was 38-year-old Warren Manners. South Wales Police said his sudden death was not considered to be suspicious.

Bereaved family members protested outside the prison. Among them was Frances Jones, whose nephew Mikey, 19, took his own life at Parc in May after struggling with addiction and having been recently recalled. She said: “Where were prison guards? He was on suicide watch. Why was he was allowed to die? Mikey came in to do his time after doing his crime, and came out in a black bag. That is wrong. He’s been let down, and so have the others who have passed here.”

She and the other protestors called for G4S to be stripped of its contract to run the prison. She said: “We want G4S out. We want the Government to come in and take back control. At least we’ll know that people will have the protection they deserve.” South Wales Police has confirmed that four of the initial six deaths at Parc involved Nitazenes, synthetic opioids up to 500 times more potent than heroin.

Former prison governor Ian Acheson posted on social media that the situation at Parc was a “story of failings”. Pointing out that a 2022 report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons had flagged up concerns about increasing availability of drugs, he said: “The Government have ultimate responsibility, so should insist G4S beef up their operation with experienced staff under the threat of losing the contract without compensation”.

Questioned about the situation at Parc in the House of Commons in May, Prisons Minister Edward Argar acknowledged there were challenges around security and recruiting experienced staff but rejected calls for the Government to take over from G4S, saying the prison is “well-run”.

In response to the families’ protest but prior to the latest fatality and the riot, a G4S spokesperson said: “We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of those who died recently at Parc. Safety of staff and prisoners is our priority.

“All mental health support is based on an assessment and operates in the same way as in the community. In line with national policy, prisoners at risk of self-harm or suicide are managed by a multi-disciplinary team and have a tailored support plan.”

The ongoing crisis at HMP Parc has prompted widespread calls for reform, with many questioning the effectiveness of the private management of such a critical public institution. The series of deaths, coupled with the rising violence and incidents of corruption, have raised serious concerns about the prison’s ability to maintain order and ensure the safety of its inmates.

Families of the victims and the wider public are demanding accountability and a thorough investigation into the conditions at HMP Parc. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has launched multiple inquiries into the recent deaths, and there are growing calls for more stringent oversight and possibly even a government takeover of the prison’s management.

HMP Parc is currently facing one of the most challenging periods in its history, with issues ranging from brutal inmate violence and drug abuse to corruption among its staff and a disturbing number of unexplained deaths. The replacement of the prison’s leadership, the arrest of a corrupt officer, and ongoing investigations are steps towards addressing these problems, but the road to restoring safety and stability at HMP Parc is likely to be long and difficult.

News

20mph limit in Wales – one year on, the debate intensifies

Published

3 hours ago

September 16, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AS Wales marks the one-year anniversary of the introduction of the 20mph speed limit on residential roads, the policy continues to stir controversy.

Initially rolled out by the Labour government with the intention of improving road safety, the reduced speed limit has faced both criticism and support from various quarters, with ongoing debate about its effectiveness and economic impact.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Transport Minister Natasha Asghar has been vocal in her criticism of the policy, calling it a “disastrous 20mph rollout.” She emphasised that despite widespread public dissent, including the largest petition in the Senedd’s history and predictions of a £9 billion impact on the Welsh economy, the government has been reluctant to reconsider the policy. Asghar reiterated the Conservative stance: “Scrap the £33m scheme altogether, only have 20mph in high footfall areas and get Wales moving again.”

The policy has not only faced political opposition but also a significant public backlash. A petition against the default 20mph limit garnered nearly half a million signatures, highlighting the extent of dissatisfaction among the Welsh public. Additionally, there has been a reported rise in offences related to the new speed limit, with many motorists finding the varying speed limits confusing.

***The 20mph speed limits have been welcomed by some, such as these St Dogmaels residents (Pic: Herald)***

Labour’s Eluned Morgan has acknowledged the policy’s challenges, admitting that the blanket implementation of the 20mph speed limits had caused problems. She indicated that the government recognises that some roads may need to revert to 30mph, and a review is currently underway. The First Minister recently acknowledged that through roads with 20mph limits had been causing the most frustration among the public, and it is now up to local councils to address these concerns.

Lee Waters, the former transport minister who introduced the policy, defended it, stating that reduced speeds have led to fewer accidents and saved lives. However, he conceded that the rollout could have been better executed, citing insufficient public awareness and preparation for such a significant change.

Despite the criticisms, recent figures indicate a positive trend in road safety, with injuries on 20mph and 30mph roads falling by a third in the final quarter of last year. Furthermore, insurer esure reported a 20% drop in accidental damage claims from Welsh customers following the implementation of the 20mph limit, resulting in reduced insurance premiums for Welsh drivers. If this trend were applied across the UK, it could result in a significant economic benefit, with potential savings of approximately £50 per policy, amounting to £1.4 billion nationwide.

**The First Minister recently acknowledged that through roads with 20mph limits had been causing the most frustration among the public**

The introduction of the 20mph speed limit has also affected events such as the Junior Tour of Wales cycling race, which had to be shortened and rerouted due to the new speed regulations. This has prompted criticism from Conservative figures who argue that such policies should not negatively impact sporting events and other activities.

Natasha Asghar further commented on the need for a “common-sense approach” to active travel, highlighting that while promoting walking and cycling is important, the current strategy of pushing people out of cars through measures like the 20mph limit is not practical or effective.

The Welsh government’s decision to make 20mph the default speed limit in built-up areas has sparked a complex debate, balancing road safety against public opinion and economic concerns. With a review in progress and ongoing discussions, the future of the 20mph policy in Wales remains uncertain. Whether the government will make adjustments or hold firm in its commitment to reduced speed limits will likely continue to be a point of contention in Welsh politics.

News

Welsh Conservatives demand vote in Senedd to save winter fuel payments

Published

4 hours ago

September 16, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE Welsh Conservatives have forced a vote in the Senedd, urging the UK Government to reverse its decision to end universal winter fuel payments. This move comes amidst growing concern that the UK Labour Government’s policy change will have a severe impact on pensioners across Wales. Approximately 400,000 Welsh households, including 540,000 pensioners, are expected to miss out on payments of up to £300 this winter.

Jane Hutt MS, the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Culture, Trefnydd, and Chief Whip, outlined the potential consequences of this decision in response to a written question by Welsh Conservative Leader, Andrew RT Davies MS. Hutt emphasised that the withdrawal of the universal winter fuel payments could push some pensioners into fuel poverty, raising alarms about the wellbeing of Wales’ elderly population.

In the Senedd session on 18th July 2024, the Welsh Conservatives tabled a motion calling on the UK Government to reconsider its stance on the universal winter fuel payment. Welsh Labour Members of the Senedd (MSs) are set to vote on this motion, which could determine whether the payment scheme will be reinstated.

Ahead of the debate, Andrew RT Davies MS, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, urged Labour MSs to prioritise the interests of their constituents over party allegiance. “This debate is a chance for Labour MSs to show that they have the courage to put their constituents’ interests before their party interests,” Davies stated. “The Welsh Conservatives will not stop fighting to keep pensioners warm this winter.”

Joel James MS, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Social Partnership and Social Justice, echoed these sentiments, condemning the decision to scrap winter fuel payments. “Labour’s shameful decision to scrap winter fuel payments risks creating a fuel poverty crisis among pensioners in Wales,” he said. “In the Senedd this week, I look forward to bringing forward our Welsh Conservative debate calling on the UK Government to reverse their decision to end the universal winter fuel payment.”

The decision to cut winter fuel payments has also drawn criticism from Age Cymru. Chief Executive Victoria Lloyd expressed concern about the impact on vulnerable pensioners. “Age Cymru firmly believe that cutting the winter fuel payment this winter, with virtually no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong decision,” Lloyd stated. “People have been sharing with us how they’ll struggle this winter without the winter fuel payment. We have heard from people who have long-term health conditions who need to have a warm home and will need to cut back on food to ensure that their homes are warm.”

The motion submitted by the Welsh Conservatives reads:

To propose that the Senedd:

Expresses deep concern that around 400,000 households in Wales will lose up to £300 per person after the UK Government’s decision to end the universal Winter Fuel Payment.
Notes the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip’s response to WQ93698 where she stated that the UK Government’s decision to end the Winter Fuel Payment will risk pushing some pensioners into fuel poverty.
Calls on the UK Government to reverse their decision to end the universal Winter Fuel Payment.

The outcome of this vote could significantly affect the financial stability and wellbeing of Welsh pensioners this winter.

Charity

St John’s mark Falls Awareness Week by announcing new rapid response service

Published

4 hours ago

September 16, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SAINT John Ambulance Cymru has secured a contract to provide a new Welfare and Falls Rapid Response service in the Pembrokeshire area, which will see staff responding to incidents to assess and assist people, reducing demand on Emergency Medical Services.

The Haverfordwest-based scheme will be run in partnership with Hywel Dda University Health Board (HDUHB) and will initially run from October 1^st 2024 until March 31^st 2025.

The scheme will follow on from the Falls Response scheme which has been operated by St John Ambulance Cymru in partnership with HDUHB and Wales Ambulance Services University NHS Trust (WASUT) in the same area since January 2023.

The announcement comes as St John Ambulance Cymru marks Falls Awareness Week from 16-20 September alongside fellow members of the National Falls Prevention Taskforce Wales.

The Falls Taskforce is an alliance focused on falls prevention for older people in across the country and includes Age Cymru, Age Connects Wales, Care & Repair Cymru, St John Ambulance Cymru, representatives from all seven health boards, as well as national and local government, public, private and other third sector organisations.

St John Ambulance Cymru’s Head of Ambulance Operations, Helen Coulthard said: “This new contract is a testament to the great service our staff have provided to people in this area of West Wales as part of the current scheme. To date the scheme has attended to over 1,000 people and saved an ambulance from attending on more than 500 occasions.

“St John Ambulance Cymru continues to build on its record of providing high quality help to patients all over the country and we look forward to continuing that work with this new scheme.”

St John Ambulance Cymru operates Falls Response schemes in communities across Wales, working in partnership with WASUT, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and the Vale of Glamorgan Council. In 2023 these schemes, together with the current Pembrokeshire scheme, helped a total of 12,815 patients.

Falls Response is just one of the services provided by the charity’s Ambulance Operations team, with more than 24,000 patients helped in 2023, including patient transport and other schemes such as the Taith Dda Mental Health Response Service.

For more information on the healthcare services provided by St John Ambulance Cymru, visit www.sjacymru.org.uk/en/page/healthcare-services.