Growing health in UK prison settings

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Public Health
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Prison populations often experience social disadvantage and poor health.
• Prisons present opportunities to address health inequalities and promote reintegration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impacts of the 'Greener on the Outside for Prisons' (GOOP) horticultural program.
• To explore how prisoner participation influences well-being, skills, and social behavior.

Main Methods:

• Evaluative research study using focus groups with 16 prisoners.
• Semi-structured interviews with 6 prison staff across 5 sites.

Main Results:

• GOOP participation enhanced mental well-being, physical activity, and healthy eating knowledge.
• The program developed prisoner skills, work readiness, and prosocial behaviors.
• Engagement fostered improved relationships and supported community reintegration.

Conclusions:

• Prison-based horticulture offers significant benefits for creating safe, health-enhancing environments.
• Programs like GOOP can catalyze systemic change, addressing social exclusion and health inequalities.