Incidences of self-harm and suicide in prison have surged in the eight months since the first lockdown was imposed. Some of those who support prisoners and their families explain why

In his phone calls, Linda’s dad described for her the beautiful, sun-baked desert island where he was living. In fact, he was in a prison cell, incarcerated in solitary confinement and lying on a bunk bed more than 23 hours a day. For month after month, Linda pleaded with the prison authorities. Her father, she told them, was mentally ill, and needed care.

After persistent advocacy by the Prison Advice and Care Trust (Pact), he was examined by health specialists and moved to a secure mental health unit. Here, staff had to cut off his clothes. A skin condition had left him
covered in sores and he was pale and weak because of lack of fresh air and exercise.

Ron was among the one third of inmates who, when discharged from prison, have nowhere to call home. He was completely unprepared for the strange Covid-19 world. He had £47 in his pocket, and no face mask. When he tried to catch a bus, he was baffled when the driver told him he could not board.