Across prisons in England and Wales rates of force continue to rise, and therefore it is critical that staff are provided with the necessary skills to respond to incidents appropriately, fairly, and in a considered manner. In January 2024, HMPPS introduced a new national Use of Force (UoF) professional standards and training curriculum. To understand the effect of this new curriculum, a mixed methods review was carried out during roll-out to capture learning that aims to strengthen the training to drive improved outcomes across the estate.
Overall, findings from the research were mixed. The revised techniques were positively received by staff and prisoners who reported more natural and quick resolution of incidents however, learning points were identified. Data showed that disparities in those who experience force persist across the estate; that an inconsistent roll-out and low learning completion rates impact staff’s confidence and competence to use force; and importance of prioritising training and staff development as a strategic lever for improving outcomes across the prison estate. Recommendations include the need for a trauma-informed, gender specific training approach, to improve how training is run and to make time for it, to increase the speed of the training roll-out, and to continue investment in assurance and data.
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Clarice Watkinson
Use of Force Evidence Specialist, HMPPS, United Kingdom
Clarice Watkinson is an Evidence Specialist in Use of Force in HMPPS. Clarice believes that evidence and research are vital to informing the decision-making of Senior Leadership and in the development of policy change and is an advocate of prisoner voice. Witnessing first-hand the positive impact that evidence-informed decisions can have on operational processes and her belief that rehabilitation is fundamental to creating safe, fair, and procedurally just custodial environments, is what drives her enthusiasm. Prior to becoming an Evidence Specialist, Clarice worked as a Safety Analyst in HMPPS supporting prisons to effectively analyse and utilise their safety data and has experience of working in the operational frontline as a Mental Health Crisis Worker. Clarice has an academic background and completed an MSc in Forensic and Investigative Psychology prior to pursuing her career.
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Dr Grant Bosworth
Head of Insights and Assurance, HMPPS, United Kingdom
Dr Grant Bosworth is the Head of the Insights and Assurance Team within the Operational Response and Resilience Unit within HMPPS. Grant has both an academic background, completing a PhD in psychological approaches to behaviour change, and extensive experience of prisons and immigration detention centres through his work with the UK Home Office and Ministry of Justice. In his current role, he leads a multidisciplinary team that oversees the governance arrangements for Use of Force across the male, female and children’s estate in England and Wales. His team comprises leaders in assurance, practice development, data, research, and subject matter expertise who together aim to promote the highest professional standards in custodial settings.
