First in Scotland for HMP Dumfries recognised at Holyrood

HMP Dumfries, the prison located in Dumfriesshire, has made history by becoming the first prison in Scotland to receive official recognition from parkrun UK. This recognition allows the prison to host an official 5k parkrun for prisoners, staff, and members of the community. Jim Smith, the deputy governor at HMP Dumfries, expressed the significance of this recognition by stating that it provides participants with a valuable opportunity to focus on a goal through regular physical activity or by supporting others through volunteering at the run, which takes place every Saturday with various roles such as marshals.

SNP MSP Emma Harper from South Scotland commended HMP Dumfries for its commitment to rehabilitation and preparing prisoners for reintegration into society. She lauded the prison’s ethos that prioritises rehabilitation and highlighted the positive impact of the parkrun offering. Ms Harper further praised the dedication of the prison staff in supporting the individuals in their care. She emphasised the importance of supporting rehabilitation efforts within the justice system as incarcerated individuals will eventually return to their communities.

The recognition from parkrun UK signifies a collaborative effort among staff, prisoners, and community members in Dumfries to work together towards a common goal. Ms Harper stressed the vital role of sports and physical activity in promoting health and wellbeing, including stress relief and maintaining good physical health. She congratulated HMP Dumfries on being the first Scottish prison to receive this recognition and expressed her support for the prison’s ongoing work in this area.

HMP Dumfries offers a range of purposeful activities, counselling services, addiction support, and specialized programs, along with amenities like a wellbeing garden and woodwork classes to support the prison population. The parkrun recognition underscores the prison’s commitment to holistic rehabilitation and underscores the positive outcomes that can be achieved through such initiatives.

In summary, HMP Dumfries’s recognition by parkrun UK as the first Scottish prison to host an official parkrun demonstrates the importance of promoting rehabilitation and community integration within the justice system. The collaborative efforts of staff, prisoners, and community members in Dumfries highlight the positive impact of such initiatives in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals in custody.