HMI Prisons reports on treatment and conditions in prisons and other places of detention. In our reports, we provide examples of notable positive practice that inspectors have observed while on inspection.

What is notable positive practice?

We define notable positive practice as:

“Evidence of our expectations being met to deliver particularly good outcomes for prisoners and/or detainees, and/or particularly original or creative approaches to problem-solving.”

The examples provided are ones that we have come across ‘on the ground’ and that we think are worth sharing as other establishments may be able to learn from or replicate the practice. Unless otherwise specified, these examples are not formally evaluated, are a snapshot in time and may not be suitable for other establishments. Examples showcase some of the ways our Expectations might be met, but they are by no means the only way.

Why do we collect it?

• We believe in the capacity of both individuals and organisations to change and improve, and that we have a part to play in initiating and encouraging change by collecting and sharing positive practice.
• We are collaborative and want to play our part in supporting a culture of continuous improvement across places of detention.
• We want to proactively build understanding among practitioners about some of the ways in which our Expectations – the criteria against which we inspect – might be met.