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<p>All prisons are required to provide physical education (PE). The National Offender
Management Service (NOMS) promotes participation in activities supervised and organised
as part of an establishment’s agreed PE programme. Prison Service Instruction (PSI)
58/2001 <em>Physical Education for Prisoners</em> specifies the requirement for prisons
to offer a range of sport and gym based activity for a minimum of two and half hours
a week.</p><p> </p><p>Additionally, the NOMS’ Incentives and Earned Privileges (IEP)
scheme covers a range of privileges including how prisoners may earn additional time
outside of their cells to engage in activities (other than work, education, treatment
interventions or religious services) such as PE. Prisons are encouraged to provide
a range of physical activities that suit the particular population balance within
resources/facilities available.</p><p> </p><p>It is also important to note that the
design for the new Secure College Pathfinder includes enhanced sports facilities,
including a running track, indoor gym hall and gym classroom. The range of facilities
reflects the importance we place on physical education, sport and outdoor activities
as part of an environment which is suitable for young people and an integral part
of a sound and challenging education.</p><p> </p><p>Specific data on the number of
hours a prisoner engages in physical activity is not available as this varies by individual
prison and prisoner depending on the IEP level the prisoner is on, the behaviour of
the individual, the availability of constructive activities and supervisory staff.</p><p>
</p><p>NOMS recognises the importance physical activity plays in the overall well-being
of prisoners and the effect PE can have on supporting other programmes designed to
reduce offending behaviour.</p>
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