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<p>HM Prison & Probation Service has a zero-tolerance policy of smuggling of contraband
into prisons, such as drugs and mobile phones, including by staff. The vast majority
of prison staff are hardworking and dedicated.</p><p>We are determined to recruit
the right people into our frontline positions, which is why they are subject to personnel
security vetting which includes criminal record checks during the application process.
Before taking up post, new recruits receive specific training to support them and
ensure their resilience to corruption.</p><p>The £100 million Security Investment
Programme (SIP) funded Enhanced Gate Security in 42 high risk sites, meaning we have
counter-measures in place to detect and disrupt any staff attempting to smuggle contraband
into prisons. The routine searching of staff, use of drug sniffer dogs and metal detectors
acts as a deterrent against conveyance. SIP also funded mobile phone blocking and
detection capabilities and drug detection units.</p><p>Appropriate action is taken
towards the minority of staff who engage in corrupt activity. Whenever staff are suspected
of wrongdoing, HMPPS’ Counter-Corruption Unit pursues disciplinary action or criminal
convictions, working closely with the police.</p><p>We have recruited over 100 new
staff into HMPPS’ Counter-Corruption Unit, which proactively detects, disrupts, and
deters activities of those suspected of wrongdoing and supports prisons and probation
services with specialist staff working alongside the police to support their investigations.
Regional Prevent teams are dedicated to building staff resilience to corruption through
training, awareness-raising and individual support.</p>
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