AQW 46687/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 20/05/2026
Answered On Date: 09/06/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the proportion of the current prison population that is receiving mental health support or intervention services; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made on the sufficiency of the current provision to meet demand.

Answer:

On 26 May 2026, the Healthcare in Prison team within the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has confirmed that there were 169 individuals in prison on the caseload for the Mental Health Teams (8% of the prison population); 191 on the caseload for Psychiatry (9% of the prison population); and 53 on the caseload for Psychology (2.5% of the prison population). It should be noted that a patient can be on the caseload for multiple services. Additionally, there will be other patients who will see the GP for support with their mental health, based on a tiered approach. Data on this is not currently available.

A Healthcare in Prison Mental Health Service Capacity and Capability Review, alongside a review of Psychological Services, was undertaken in 2023. In addition, a comprehensive Health Needs Assessment, focusing on mental health, addictions, and learning disability, is currently in the final stages of preparation. This assessment will provide commissioners with updated evidence, findings, and key considerations to help inform future services planning and the extent to which current provision meets demand.