Prisoner Health & Suicide Prevention

Prison healthcare is a fundamental part of safe, humane and effective prison systems. In recent years, growing attention has been given to the health needs of people in custody and the increasing complexity of delivering both physical and mental healthcare in prisons. The importance of this area was often viewed primarily through a clinical lens, but it is now increasingly recognised as a key component of prison management, rehabilitation and public health.

Mental health issues, substance use disorders, chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, ageing populations and suicide risk present significant challenges for prison services across Europe. Responding effectively requires strong healthcare systems, close cooperation between professionals and the continuous exchange of knowledge and good practice.

The Prisoner Health & Suicide Prevention Expert Group aims to support prison administrations in addressing these challenges by sharing expertise, promoting evidence-based approaches and highlighting effective practices. By fostering cooperation across jurisdictions, the group contributes to improving prisoner health, strengthening suicide prevention measures and supporting humane detention and rehabilitation across Europe.