A multi-agency task force has been set up to tackle health and social care concerns at a north-east superjail.
The first official inspection report of HMP Grampian found that the flagship prison is back on track after a catalogue of early controversies.
However concerns were raised by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons, David Strang, about medical care and, in particular, waiting times for mental health treatment.
Now Aberdeenshire’s new integrated joint board – which brings together services from NHS Grampian and local councils – has revealed efforts to raise standards at the prison.
In a new report to board members, the chief of the Aberdeenshire health and social care partnership, Adam Coldwells, said a group has been established to oversee the improvements.
“NHS Grampian health provision within HMP & YOI Grampian was rated generally acceptable or satisfactory in 15 out of the 21 standards,” Mr Coldwells said.
“However six standards were rated poor and was given an overall rating of poor.”
The partnership chief officer said an internal review was carried out in the wake of Mr Strang’s inspection, and similar health and social care concerns were raised.
Now an action plan has been drawn up. The new strategy includes implementing new staff rotas, advertising for new staff, cracking down on controlled drugs and improving communication between prison officers and NHS workers.
Mr Coldwells added: “To oversee the delivery of the action plan a multi-disciplinary group has been established with colleagues from SPS, mental health, substance misuse, and criminal justice.
“This group has a mandate to support improvement work and make available the necessary resources to ensure actions are met.”
Last night a spokeswoman for the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) said: “Following the recent inspection of HMP & YOI Grampian, a multi-disciplinary group has been set up to take forward the actions and recommendations identified within the report.
“SPS is working in partnership with NHS Grampian, both at an operational and strategic level, to support staff to deliver these improvements.”
The integrated joint board will meet on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the report at Aberdeenshire Council’s Woodhill House HQ.