Written question asked by Neil Gerrard (Labour) on Monday, 8 March 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 March 2010. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Friday, 12 March 2010 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice.

Young Offender Institutions: Languages

Question: (2) what provision is made for young people in prison who do not speak English

Answer: There are no specific instructions or training for staff in young offender institutions working with children who do not speak English. However guidance issued to' establishments to support the development of local polices for managing foreign national prisoners reminds staff of the need to support prisoners whose English is poor and to encourage to them learn English while in prison. All establishments are able to offer courses in English as a second language as part of the core curriculum where the need arises.All establishments in England and Wales can access interpreting and translation services. The availability of these services should, wherever possible, be advertised throughout establishments and, in particular, in areas such as reception, induction, health care and segregation units.Information on the use of interpreting facilities is not broken down by service within individual establishments.

Secondary information