82171 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections

82171 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections: What rehabilitation or educational programs, if any, are currently available to prisoners in the Persons of Extreme Risk Unit (PERU)?

Hon Mark Mitchell: I am advised that the prisoners housed in the Persons of Extreme Risk Unit (PERU) present with a unique and complex range of presentations and risk profiles. Best practice recommends individual psychological assessment and treatment to ensure the most appropriate intervention. As a result of their risk, many fall outside the suitability criteria for Corrections’ Medium Intensity suite of programmes. For those whose risk is deemed to have reduced to support progression into a mainstream unit, referrals can be made to follow-up high intensity group programmes. These individuals may also access specialist mental health support which is both culturally and clinically appropriate. I am further advised that people in the PERU are able to access education programmes. Education tutors undertake numeracy and literacy assessments and support individuals with educational programmes. These programmes are available for prisoners in the PERU and may include up to university level study. A number of the prisoners in the PERU are undertaking education. They are also able to access library services. Corrections’ statutory obligations in relation to rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals in custody is applicable across all individuals in all prisons, including PERU. This is also my response to WPQ 82173 (2024).