Regional Manager Leanne Field says the Health Unit is a fundamental part of any prison, and provides essential health needs for prisoners. The prison population has grown in recent years and facilities need to be developed to cope with increased demand, she explains.
“Some prisoners arrive at prison with significant health needs and it is important to have facilities that can adequately manage these needs. The new unit will help us to identify any immediate and long-term needs the individual may have, and ensure that these needs are addressed appropriately,” she says.
The new health unit will also house a dedicated sample collection unit for drug testing.
“The identification of drugs users is a very high priority for the Department, and this unit will be fundamental in reducing drug use at the prison,” she says.
Department of Corrections’ Chief Executive Barry Matthews, who opened the new facilities, says the health unit highlights Corrections’ increasingly sharp focus on drug rehabilitation in prisons.
A new drug treatment unit will also open in Christchurch shortly, adding to the suite of interventions Corrections has available.
The new receiving office, where new prisoners first arrive, will allow processing to be carried out more efficiently. This is where prisoners experience their first contact with corrections staff, so it is important this process is well managed.
“The new Receiving Office and Health Unit form part of the Department’s future looking focus,” says Barry.
Got a story for Corrections News or want to request the print edition?
Email commdesk@corrections.govt.nz or phone (04) 460 3365.
ISSN 1178-8453