1.0 Background of the Study
Prison overcrowding is a very severe and pressing problem faced by many countries, especially in the developing countries. In the region of Asia and the Pacific, the problem has reached critical levels. Prison overcrowding in these countries is not merely a problem of numbers or space. It is a problem of gross inadequacy of essential facilities such as sanitation, water for bathing and washing, medical and recreational facilities. In some of these countries prison overcrowding is more of a crisis than a mere problem.
The overcrowding of prisons remains a major challenge and concern in UK. As a result, the safety of inmates and staff alike is threatened and, ultimately, that of the public (Duncan, 2006). Overcrowding in prisons means the facility population is greater than the design capacity, single cells turned into doubles having three to four people in a single bed together. Overcrowding directly affects prisoners’ mental and physical health by increasing the level of uncertainty with which they regularly must cope. In addition, the legal systems of most countries over-emphasize imprisonment as the most powerful weapon against crime. Courts resort to imprisonment of offenders far too often even when alternative sentences are available. Another reason observed is the large numbers sent to prison for non-payment of fines. Large numbers admitted to prisons for minor drug offences also contribute towards the increase of prison populations. Although research studies have indicated that increase in the length of prison sentences do not have a significant effect as a deterrent to crime, the courts in many countries continue to pass long sentences on offenders (Duncan, 2006).
2.0 Statement of the Problem
The achievement of having calculated knowledge about the UK prison overcrowding is the main issue here. What are the criteria for the measurement of overcrowding of prisons? Is there a common standard regarding accommodation of prisoners, especially on floor area and other facilities? It would be helpful to note the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners in this regard. Rule 10 states that ” All accommodation provided for the use of prisoners and in particular all sleeping accommodation shall meet all requirement of health, due regard be paid to climatic conditions and particularly to cubic content of air, minimum floor space, lighting, heating and ventilation” (Goodchild,2007). What the government of UK is doing in tackling the overpopulation in UK prisons is critical.
The main purpose of this study is to analyze the several activities or events that jeopardize effective quality control of UK’s handling of prisons. This paper would delve into the apparent factors that contribute to the overcrowding of UK prisons and the avenues for solving the problem. This research, specifically, purports to determine the reasons for the overcrowding of UK prisons. This research takes into account the effects of UK prison overpopulation and the practices that affect the criteria for the measurement of overcrowding in UK prisons, recognizing the economic and social of the prisoners. The study also seeks to explore the different measures in reducing prison overcrowding and the alternatives to imprisonment.
4.0 Research Methodology
This study will use the descriptive type of research. A descriptive research intends to present facts concerning the nature and status of a situation, as it exists at the time of the study and to describe present conditions, events or systems based on the impressions or reactions of the respondents of the research (Creswell, 1994). It is also concerned with relationships and practices that exist, beliefs and processes that are ongoing, effects that are being felt, or trends that are developing (Best, 1970).
In this study, primary and secondary research will be both incorporated. The reason for this is to be able to provide adequate discussion for the readers that will help them understand more about the issue and the different variables that involve with it. The primary data for the study will be represented by the survey results that will be acquired from the respondents. On the other hand, the literature reviews to be presented in the second chapter of the study will represent the secondary data of the study.
The research will be presented in written form with the addition of data charts, which will present the project’s results. Pie charts and network charts will be needed to illustrate some of the analyzed data. This cannot be confirmed, however, until the research data have been analyzed.
Credit:ivythesis.typepad.com
0 comments:
Post a Comment