Digital Handbook

Making It Happen

Optional ideas informed by the EuroPris Staff Wellbeing Expert Group to help you explore the topic further and adapt approaches to your own prison service.

• Enhance lighting design to support alertness and reduce visual fatigue (e.g., secure natural light, clerestory glazing or task‑focused lamps).

• Introduce acoustic and visual privacy measures to reduce noise stress and support concentration (e.g., sound‑absorbing panels or screened staff desks).

• Plan circulation routes effectively to ease congestion and reduce operational pressure (e.g., staff‑only corridors and clear wayfinding).

• Upgrade visiting facilities to promote dignity and support morale (e.g., accessible layouts, comfortable seating and improved hygiene).

• Incorporate natural elements to reduce stress and aid recovery (e.g., internal planting, small gardens or views to outdoor spaces).

• Adopt less intrusive security technologies to maintain safety respectfully (e.g., scanners and CCTV to reduce manual searching).

• Improve ventilation and thermal control to maintain environmental comfort (e.g., regular servicing of heating and cooling systems).

• Provide ergonomic workstations to reduce physical strain (e.g., adjustable desks and supportive seating).

• Create quiet recharge spaces to promote psychological recovery (e.g., privacy rooms with hydration and basic kitchen amenities).

• Offer on‑site exercise options to support wellbeing (e.g., small gyms or multipurpose rooms for stretching and fitness).

• Designate accessibility/disability leads to promote inclusive environments (e.g., regular reviews of adjustments and staff spaces).