Cat Smith MP to meet prison educators at Lancaster Farms Prison

UCU said prison education is the key to reducing reoffending and has called for an additional £30m to be invested into prison education to support ex-offenders in to employment.

However, the union warned that pressures on prison educators make it difficult for them to do their jobs to the best of their ability. UCU says high workloads, a lack of teaching resources and being made to escort prisoners to and from lessons all impact on their ability to deliver high-quality learning. 

Cat Smith MP said 'Prison education is an unsung part of the post-school education system which brings personal, social and economic benefits. I am looking forward to meeting prison educators and seeing the positive impact their work has on inmates' lives.'

UCU prison education branch chair Brian Hamilton said 'We are very pleased that Cat Smith is taking the time to meet with staff to witness first-hand the important work they do with offenders.  Education is key to reducing reoffending and politicians must ensure it is both at the heart of prison policy and properly funded.'

Cat Smith will visit lessons to see educators at work and speak to UCU members about the challenges they face in their work.

Lancaster Farms Prison is a category C adult male resettlement prison that houses around 550 inmates and offers training in areas including bricklaying, joinery, hospitality, arts and media, and business and IT.