Understanding IPP Sentences in the UK

Questions and Answers

What significant ruling was made by the European Court of Human Rights regarding IPP sentences?

They were lawful under all circumstances.

They should remain unchanged.

They were beneficial for the public.

They were arbitrary and therefore unlawful. (correct)

What was the approximate number of IPP prisoners still incarcerated at the end of last year?

3,500

2,892 (correct)

5,000

1,500

How does the rate of self-harm among IPP prisoners compare to that of life sentence prisoners?

It is lower by a considerable margin.

It is more than twice as high. (correct)

It is slightly higher.

It is about the same.

What did Victoria do to improve her situation while imprisoned?

She engaged in various rehabilitation activities. Signup and view all the answers

What prevented Victoria from qualifying for parole after her tariff ended?

She was still engaged in a psychotherapeutic course. Signup and view all the answers

What effect did repeated refusals of parole have on Victoria's mental health?

It caused her to spiral into despair. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge do IPP prisoners face regarding psychological help while seeking parole?

Mental illness can be a criterion for refusal of parole. Signup and view all the answers

What has contributed to the hopelessness of IPP prisoners in terms of rehabilitation?

Severe cuts restricting available courses. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

IPP Sentences and Their Abolishment

Indeterminate Public Protection (IPP) sentences criticized as “arbitrary and unlawful” by the European Court of Human Rights in 2012.
Conservative government abolished IPP terms; however, this change did not apply retrospectively.
As of the end of last year, 2,892 IPP prisoners remained incarcerated, despite crimes being less severe than those committed by released prisoners.

Impact on Mental Health

IPP prisoners experience significantly increased rates of self-harm, over double that of life sentence inmates.
The uncertainty of release severely affects the mental well-being of IPP prisoners, creating a state of despair.

Victoria's Story

In March 2008, Victoria recognized the gravity of her IPP sentence and attempted suicide.
She committed to self-improvement through psychotherapy, education, and skill-building courses.
Initially, Victoria was not ready for parole when her tariff expired and continued to engage in therapeutic programs.

Challenges in Seeking Parole

Victoria’s parole application was denied after two years due to her ongoing participation in therapy and failure to meet the high standards of proof for release.
Following the refusal, Victoria faced significant mental health issues, including self-harm and substance abuse, leading to another suicide attempt.

Cycle of Mental Illness and Parole Denial

Refusal of parole exacerbates mental health problems among IPP prisoners, as mental illness is a criterion for denial.
Prisoners may conceal their mental health struggles to avoid jeopardizing their chances of release.

Reduction in Rehabilitation Opportunities

Funding cuts have limited the availability of courses and counseling, further diminishing the hope of release for IPP prisoners.

Victoria’s Release and Reflection

Victoria was released this year after serving over 15 years for a 21-month tariff.
She expresses a commitment to leading a meaningful life while grappling with the impact of lost years due to her incarceration.

Description

This quiz explores the history and implications of Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentences in the UK. It delves into the legal rulings, government actions, and the ongoing plight of IPP prisoners. Test your knowledge about the judicial system and the effects on mental health of those affected by these sentences.