After a referral

When we receive a referral, we will: 

  • complete a face-to-face assessment to ask what they feel they need and observe how they manage everyday activities. This is not a test, it’s a way to understand the person's strengths and what support they need 
  • write up a care and support plan which details the support they’re eligible for 
  • share the support plan with healthcare and prison colleagues so officers and healthcare professionals are aware of the support and the person continues to get the support they need 

We review the care and support plan every year or as their needs change.  

Support from a Care and Support Orderly

If someone is eligible for support in prison, they may get support from a formal carer and/or a trained Care and Support Orderly.  

The carer and the orderly will help people meet the goals set out in their care and support plan. 

Formal Carers support with personal care tasks and domestic tasks if there is not a Care and Support Orderly available. 

Care and Support Orderlies support with: 

  • domestic care tasks like cleaning, laundry, collecting their meals 
  • communicating with family, friends such as writing letters, making phone calls  
  • Communicating with professionals such as booking appointments, completing forms 
  • social support to reduce isolation 

Training for Care and Support Orderlies 

Care and Support Orderlies are prisoners who help to support other prisoners.  

If a prisoner applies to become an orderly, they will:  

  • have a security check and clearance before taking on the role 
  • attend and pass a two-day training course 
  • have monthly supervision 
  • have access to a monthly peer group meeting 

Training courses happen about 6 to 9 times each year across the 3 Greenwich prisons.