Prevention Measures in European Prisons against COVID-19

Updated on 23 March 2020

General prevention measures

All leaves for prisoners are temporarily suspended. 

Prisoners who are not incarcerated but has been sentenced to prison are denied of entering any prison or remand prison to start serving time if they show symptoms of Covid-19.

Visits to probation offices are to be avoided as far as possible. Contact between a client and a Probation Officer should be conducted over the phone if possible.

Prison visits

All visits from friends and family to prisoners are temporarily cancelled. 

Activities / compensation

Free calls are still offered nationally but international calls are now half the normal price. In addition to this there are tests ongoing where prisoners can contact their children by using a tablet.

Staff

Travelling in the line of duty (both within the country and abroad) is to be avoided if not absolutely necessary.

The region of Stockholm has recommended its employees working at the Head Quarter or the Region Office to work from home if possible.

General recommendations such as washing your hands often and thoroughly, keeping distance from other people, avoid local transportations etc, including staying at home if you are experiencing any symptoms or have been associated with persons having symptoms or have been confirmed to be infected.