Use of separation and segregation in prison

Request data on the use of separation, segregation, and restricted regimes.

Prisoners can be placed in separation or segregation for their own safety or the safety of others. Extended periods in segregation raise serious human rights concerns.

Dear [AUTHORITY NAME], Please provide the following information for [FINANCIAL YEAR e.g. 2024-25]: 1. The total number of prisoners placed in separation or segregation during the period. 2. The average and maximum duration of separation. 3. A breakdown by the reason for separation (e.g. good order and discipline, own protection, pending investigation). 4. The number of prisoners who spent more than 72 hours in segregation. I would prefer to receive this as a spreadsheet or CSV if possible. Yours faithfully, [YOUR NAME]
Back to top ↑

Who to send it to#

The Scottish Prison Service. Find their contact details on the Commissioner’s directory of Scottish public authorities. You can also send your request through WhatDoTheyKnow, which publishes responses online.

Back to top ↑

Tips#

  • Under the Prisons and Young Offenders Institutions (Scotland) Rules 2011, separation must be authorised and reviewed regularly. Data on durations helps check whether the rules are being followed.
  • HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland comments on the use of segregation in its inspection reports. Check these for context before submitting your request.
  • If you are interested in a specific prison, name it in the request.
  • The Scottish Information Commissioner has ordered disclosure of information about prison conditions in several cases.