Home›Questions on Notice›QoN 665

❓ The question seeks information on measures ensuring psychological support for released prisoners identified as suicide risks. The answer outlines existing practices like providing a directory of support services but acknowledges limitations in predicting post-release stressors.

AnsweredQoN 665Legislative Assembly

Asked

28 March 2006

Member

Mr A.J. Simpson

Portfolio

Justice

QuestionView source ↗

Can the Minister please advise what measures are in place to ensure that prisoners who are identified as a suicide risk in a Western Australian prison are provided with psychological services when released?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered

3 May 2006

Responded by

Minister for Justice

Response time

36 days

In the case of people remanded in custody (with or without bail), it is well documented that this places an individual under additional stress and elevates their level of risk to self, whilst in custody. Obtaining surety often serves as a protective factor. It is impossible to predict the potential stressors once a prisoner is released on bail. However, all prisoners being released from prison are advised of the availability of relevant welfare organisations which assist released prisoners, this usually consists of a directory of support services entitled "Where to from Here?" which contains contact details for emergency services including suicide emergency services.

View on Parliament of WA