Edinburgh Prison inmates create petition over poor medical care

INMATES at Edinburgh Prison have signed a petition criticising the healthcare they receive.
Exterior shot of Saughton Prison in Edinburgh. Picture; TSPLExterior shot of Saughton Prison in Edinburgh. Picture; TSPL
Exterior shot of Saughton Prison in Edinburgh. Picture; TSPL

An investigation is underway after the prisoners alleged “serious medical neglect” and said a fellow inmate who died did not receive the care he needed.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is responsible for penal institutions, but healthcare is a matter for the NHS.

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James Sneddon, 35, who was jailed for attempted murder and firearms charges reportedly died in May of organ failure.

Prison guard in Saughton Prison in Edinburgh.  Image; TSPLPrison guard in Saughton Prison in Edinburgh.  Image; TSPL
Prison guard in Saughton Prison in Edinburgh. Image; TSPL

In a petition, the inmates wrote: “The attitude of medical staff here to James Sneddon’s attempts to receive appropriate treatment can only be described as dismissive, and it is an attitude characteristic of medical staff here to prisoners generally who seek help and treatment.”

Jim Faris, Deputy Chief Inspector of Prisons, said: “I can advise that a communication signed by a number of prisoners held in HMP Edinburgh was received by this office which highlights concerns about healthcare provision within the establishment.

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