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<p>The information requested is not centrally monitored as a matter of routine, and
so could only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.</p><p>Under existing prison
policy, force can be used when it is reasonable, necessary and proportionate to the
seriousness of the circumstances. Prison Governors monitor all Use of Force Incidents
as and when they arise in their establishment to ensure they are policy compliant.
In terms of pregnant women, Guidance (Prison Service Instruction (PSI) 1600) states
that ‘In the case of a planned use of force on a female prisoner who is known or suspected
of being pregnant, a full risk assessment must be carried out and staff must be fully
briefed before any C&R techniques are employed.’</p><p>Pregnant women in prison
have individual care and management plans. These are communicated to multidisciplinary
staff managing an individual’s case, including staff who may discharge Use of Force.</p><p>A
different PSI sets out the current policy on Mother and Baby Units (MBUs), and the
Policy Guidance adjoining the Women’s Policy Framework 2018 contains comprehensive
operational guidance on perinatal support to women in custody. This policy is under
review, and seeks to improve the support that is available to these cohorts across
the board. This will include greater practical advice for staff, increased training,
and more. It is due for publication in the summer of this year.</p><p>In 2019 NHSE/I
provided Health and Justice Commissioners with funding for improved perinatal health
provision. This is being used to develop bespoke perinatal pathways in each prison,
and is being rolled out throughout 2020.</p>
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