Being in prison can be a very difficult time for some people who may find it hard to adjust to the restrictions and regimes of the prison system. Some prisoners may feel that their problems are magnified and possibly more than they feel they can cope with. 

Sometimes a prisoner may feel so desperate that they may feel like harming themselves and it is important that they get the help and support they need to see them through the bad times. 

What is self-harm? 

Self-harm is a way that some people express their distress. It is often a way of communicating what someone feels they cannot express in words, or even in thought. People who self-harm may injure themselves by cutting or burning their skin, by hitting themselves against objects or by taking a drug overdose. Afterwards, the person may feel better able to deal with their situation for a short time. 

Who may be particularly vulnerable? 

• Those new to the prison system 
• The recently bereaved 
• People who have recently suffered a broken relationship 
• Substance misusers 

• Anyone with a previous history of harming themselves or attempting suicide 

What signs could you look for? 

The family or friends of a prisoner can usually be the first people to identify that there is something wrong with the prisoner by noticing a change in mood or a lack of interest in something they might normally take pleasure from. The prisoner may even disclose feelings of self harm or suicide and if they do then it is vital that the prison is informed as soon as possible so that they can ensure the wellbeing of the prisoner. 

• The prisoner may be unusually quiet, uninterested in things or have withdrawn into themselves 
• They may have a disregard for their appearance and personal hygiene 
• They might display different emotions for example anger, despair or hopelessness 
• They might feel isolated and lonely 
• They might be showing difficulty in adjusting to their situation 
• They might express a wish to die 

How can I let the prison know my concerns? 

If you are worried that someone you know in prison – or someone else in the prison – is at risk in any way, please call the Safer Custody Hotline for the prison. You will find details on the prison website.

If you are concerned that there is an immediate threat to their life, please call the prison switchboard and ask to speak to the Duty Governor or Orderly Officer.

You may also wish to contact us on the Prisoners Families Helpline for any other worries or concerns, on 0808 808 2003 (Monday-Friday 9.00am-8.00pm and Saturday-Sunday 10.00am-3.00pm).

What will happen if I tell the prison? 

Once the prison is aware that a prisoner is at risk of self-harm or suicide then they will closely monitor the individual and support him/her until the situation changes. 

What help is available in prison? 

If a prisoner is struggling to cope in custody, the prison may open up an ACCT. This is an Assessment, Care in Custody and Teamwork. An ACCT is how the prison plan support for someone who is at risk of self-harm or suicide.

The main purpose of an ACCT is to keep the prisoner safe. To do this, a dedicated case coordinator will work with staff from different departments in the prison, to create a plan of actions to make sure that the prisoner is supported, and able to keep themselves safe.

The plans are ‘person centered’. This means that each plan is made based on the prisoner’s needs, and the prisoner will also be involved in any planning and decisions made about how the prison can support them.

Who else can a prisoner talk to? 

Other support options available within the prison estate include counselling, access to the Samaritans (24 hours a day by telephone), help with substance misuse issues and access to the chaplaincy and/or healthcare professionals. 

Prisoners can also talk to Listeners (selected prisoners trained by the Samaritans to provide emotional support to their fellow prisoners) and other peer supporters.

Who can I talk to? 

If you feel you would like to talk to someone about your own feelings, you can ring the Samaritans either at your local branch or on their national number 116 123 at any time of the day or night.

You can also find lots of links to charities and communities who can provide support on our useful links page.

Alternatively you can call us on 0808 808 2003 Monday-Friday 9.00am-8.00pm and Saturday-Sunday 10.00am-3.00pm. 

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Worried about self harm or suicide? PDF