InfoSearched
Published -
- July 26, 2020
- 10:44 pm
Around The World
What life is like in a crisis hit prison in the U.K.
How does overcrowding contribute to the perpetuation of violence in prisons?
Wild Prison-Life In The U.K.
Prison in the United Kingdom is a complex and convoluted system that has been marred by controversy for decades. There are many stories out there that offer glimpses into the dark and sordid world of life behind bars, but perhaps none illustrates this better than the concept of ‘wild prison-life’. Wild prison-life describes an environment in which inmates are stripped of their dignity, resorted to violence and left without hope, a situation which has had lasting implications for the prison system and the broader society.
Wild prison-life in the UK is a term used to describe a prison culture of violence, intimidation, and state-sanctioned abuse. In such prisons, the lack of services and effective security measures means that prisoners are left with little to no support, often resulting in the establishment of a gang culture, accepting violence as their way of life. Equally, the insufficient healthcare available to prisoners has led to an increase in violence, as prisoners are left without basic provisions such as clean clothes, clean bedding, and adequate food. As the violence intensifies, it perpetuates more violence, and this vicious cycle continues.
One of the main factors in enabling a ‘wild prison-life’, is the overcrowding of prisons. Overcrowding has played a significant role in the rise of violence and inter-prisoner conflict. When prison occupancy levels exceed capacity, sanitation, food, and medical care all suffer, leading to heightened tension and frustration among prisoners. The combination of overcrowding, lack of resources, and staff shortages can lead to resentment towards the prison system and a reluctance to follow rules and behaviors, making these prisons more, not less dangerous.
The propagation and acceptance of a ‘wild prison-life,’ in combination with overcrowding, are not just bad for the stability of prisons and the physical and emotional welfare of prisoners; it also has a direct and indirect impact on society. Prisoners who are released from such environments are more likely to reoffend, often assertively and violently. Furthermore, the culture of violence is not contained in the prison environment and manifests itself in the broader society when released ex-convicts reintegrate with society, resulting in effect complete isolation from wider society.
The truth is that to address the issue of wild prison-life in the United Kingdom requires a full-scale review of the system. This means considering proven alternatives to imprisonment, such as restorative justice and community sentences, but equally investing more effectively in the rehabilitation and care of prisoners, providing them with access to education, healthcare, and other forms of support. Only then can we break the cycle of violence that has perpetuated this climate of fear and dissociation.
In conclusion, wild prison-life in the United Kingdom is a severe and pervasive issue facing the prison system. It affects the welfare and rehabilitation of prisoners, but also has a profound effect on society. The issues that cause such environments are numerous but with thoughtful policy measures and increased resources, the aim should be to create a prison system that prioritizes the welfare and rehabilitation of prisoners over everything else. By doing so, we can create a healthier and safer society for all.
