On 10 December 2001, there were 3,080 prisoners in custody, of whom 2,577 were sentenced prisoners. While the exact figures requested by the Deputy are not readily available, it is the case that all sentenced prisoners are required to participate in work or work training or to attend education classes. A prisoner may be excused only on medical grounds.
Work available for prisoners includes baking, carpentry, crafts, upholstery, cleaning, woodwork, stores, special work parties and working with trades staff on maintenance. The guiding principles which underpin the work and training service are to make available work, work-training and other purposeful activities to all those in custody. Its aims are to counteract idleness, give useful skills and serve the purpose of promoting rehabilitation. Training activities are chosen to give as much employment as possible and also to give opportunities for those in prison to acquire practical skills which will help them secure employment on release.