| answer text |
<p>The most recent Prisoner Escort and Custody Services (PECS) procurement process,
which covers securely moving both adults and children, commenced in August 2020 and
runs for ten years. This contract covers a range of services including secure transportation
between prisons, police stations and other named places of detention and courts as
well as transportation of prisoners between prison establishments and includes transition
moves from the youth to adult estate.</p><p> </p><p>The Criminal Justice Act 1991
(as amended) and section 12 and Schedule 2 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order
Act 1994 as amended by the 2007 offender management act, covers staffing requirements
for moving children. All suppliers must demonstrate their technical and professional
ability to deliver services, including compliance with the Equality Act 2010, as well
as a sound economic and financial standing during any procurement process.</p><p>
</p><p>Requirements for the supplier to implement behavioural management policies
are included within the PECS contract outlines and cover Human rights, where use of
restraint may be applicable and a requirement that any use is reported. There is an
expectation that mechanical restraints would not be routinely used for children unless
a risk assessment confirms they are necessary.</p><p> </p><p>The PECS suppliers are
required to adhere to Prison Service Instructions covering the use of restraint, and
their Standard Operating Procedures, training and supervision will be structured around
these policy documents. Further to this the PECS contract requires suppliers to have
a programme of development and refresher training for their staff which includes training
for dealing with young people. Suppliers are also required to review any use of force
and ensure that any appropriate lessons are learned, shared and implemented.</p>
|
|
