Palliative care in UK prisons: practical and emotional challenges for custodial staff, healthcare professionals and fellow prisoners

Despite falling crime rates in England and Wales over the past 20 years, the number of prisoners has
doubled. People over the age of 50 constitute the fastest growing section of the prison population,
and increasing numbers of older prisoners are dying in custody. This article discusses some of the
issues raised by these changing demographics and draws on preliminary findings from a study
underway in North West England. It describes the context behind the rise in the numbers of older
prisoners; explores the particular needs of this growing population; and discusses some of the
practical and emotional challenges for prison officers, health care staff, and fellow prisoners who are
involved in caring for dying prisoners in a custodial environment.