29.A. Workshop: Implementation of smokefree prisons across a national prison estate: experience from Scotland

Abstract

Abstract Objective To present findings from the multi-methods, 3-Phase Tobacco in Prisons (TIPs) study, a comprehensive evaluation of the development, preparation for, implementation and outcomes of smoke free policy across Scotland's prison. Prisons had partial exemption from UK policy banning smoking in enclosed public spaces, and became one of few workplaces with continued exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS). Prison smoking bans have been introduced elsewhere, but evidence of the process and impact of implementing smokefree prisons is sparse. By presenting papers using different methods (objective measurements of SHS; qualitative focus group/interview data, surveys with people in custody and staff; prisoner purchasing data and an economic analysis), the workshop will demonstrate the success of implementing smokefree prison policy and the factors contributing to this success and related outcomes. It will discuss some of the challenging issues and decisions which other jurisdictions may face when considering a smokefree policy. Format The format of the workshop will comprise oral presentations from members of the TIPs research team. This will begin with an overview of a) the rationale for and challenges of implementing smokefree policies in the prison context, and b) the methods used during the three phases of the TIPs study. There will then be presentations on: (i) SHS exposure pre-post ban; (ii) experiences and opinions of staff including the use of e-cigarettes in prisons; (iii) the impact of smokefree policy on prisoner spend in the 'canteen' (prison shop); the impact of smokefree prison policy on medications dispensing; (v) the economic impacts of the smoke-free prison policy. As a study of an entire national prison service. This evaluation of the development, planning, implementation and impact of smokefree policy demonstrates the importance of research evidence for policy implementation, providing new evidence for other jurisdictions contemplating bans on smoking in prisons. Key messages Smokefree prison policy can be successfully implemented with support, partnership working and good communication. Exposure to secondhand smoke in prisons rapidly declines.