Clara and Taz are both long-term prisoners at HMP Foston Hall. They have been moved to a wing alongside people who the prison is aware are likely to harm them. Clara and Taz were told this would be a temporary measure before being located in a double cell. Despite being on a wing together, they are being kept separate. Near constant lockdown means they have very little time together. This is having a huge impact on their mental health.

The prison is short of single cells as it is – this is clearly a punitive measure by CM Wooley who is blocking the transfer, despite it being approved by more senior staff. The measure is designed to put a strain on their relationship and break the support they have developed. The prison is aware and acknowledges that they provide one another with support. CM Wooley has told Clara the only way she is moving off his wing is by being sent to the segregation unit.

Taz and Clara must be transferred to a double-cell immediately!

Over past months, HMP Foston Hall has been on near constant lock-down. All activities and jobs have been cancelled indefinitely and prisoners have been subject to confinement in their cells for upwards of 20 hours daily. This is having a massive impact on mental health for prisoners. HMP Foston Hall have justified such measures in order to “have a staff barbecue” and, most recently, because of the Queen’s death.

This must NOT continue!