In this context, the phrase ‘minimum standards’ refers to the lowest levels of the recruitment procedure and training that prison officers who work with difficult inmates should complete in order to effectively carry out their duties.
This document outlines a number of issues that should be considered in developing training for such staff. These issues should inform the training provided. It also provides prison service training institutes with an opportunity to compare their current practice with what has been agreed upon by an international panel of experts as the minimum standards.
By adopting these standards an institute can improve the professional practice, broaden the range of skills and professional behaviors acquired by staff, and increase the confidence in and safety of the work they complete.
Introduction
Staff selection
Specific ethical considerations
Development and evaluation of training
Continuous training
Mental health
A trauma-informed approach
Communication and interaction with prisoners and others
Accreditation of trainers
Risk assessment and management of difficult inmates
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Security training
Recommended security training modules
Using physical security aids
Procedural security
Dynamic security and control & restraint procedures
Conclusion
Abbreviations
References
EPTA
EPTA (2021). Minimum Standards for Training in Managing Difficult Inmates. European Penitentiary Training Academies. Minimum Standards for Training in Managing Difficult Inmates (epta.info)
