August 8, 2018 4.52 pm This story is over 67 months old

Transgender prisoners demand ‘delicates only’ wash

The request was highlighted in an inspection of HM North Sea Camp

Transgender prisoners in HM North Sea Camp, Freiston have demanded a ‘delicates only’ wash cycle for their underwear and clothes.

The request was highlighted by an annual report from the Independent Monitoring Board who said there are additional washing needs that are not currently being met by the men’s open prison.

In particular it mentioned the needs of clinical washes for inmates with medical problems, and a recent demand for a ‘delicates only’ wash from transgender residents.

The report says: “The residents’ personal clothing (non HMP issue) is laundered in the prison laundry. 42 special service washes are available every weekend. Residents make a £1 contribution for this service.

“There are additional washing needs, including the demand for clinical washes for those residents with medical problems (associated with an aging population within the establishment) and also a more recent demand for a ‘delicates’washing program to be used by transgender residents.”

The report mentions other failings in the current laundry, including the fact that one of the three washing machines is out of order.

It says that an investment in this area “should be a priority for the prison” which can house up to 420 inmates.