Operation Early Dawn: What It Means for Police Custody Healthcare Professionals

Today, the HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) has reactivated Operation Early Dawn, a contingency mechanism designed to provide extra oversight of prisoner transfers between police, courts, and prison. This reactivation comes in response to the recent influx of individuals entering the prison estate, especially in the north of England, following significant disorder and an already crowded prison system.

Understanding Operation Early Dawn

Operation Early Dawn ensures that individuals charged and remanded in police custody are only summoned to a magistrates’ court once a cell in the prison estate is confirmed to be ready for them. This measure aims to manage the current capacity concerns within the prison system, particularly in the following regions:

• North East and Yorkshire
• Cumbria and Lancashire
• Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire
• East and West Midlands

With this operation in place, individuals will remain in police custody suites until their court summons is issued, ensuring that a secure location is available should they be remanded to prison. The decision-making process is coordinated through operational assessments conducted each morning and throughout the day by the Prison Service, courts, and police.

The government has committed to keeping Operation Early Dawn under constant review, activating or deactivating the measure as necessary based on evolving capacity challenges within the prison estate.

Impact on Police Custody Healthcare Professionals

The reactivation of Operation Early Dawn brings with it several implications for healthcare professionals (HCPs) working in police custody suites.

Increased Workloads

Custody HCPs may be required to cover additional custody suites that have been set up or designated to hold individuals under this operation. With more detained individuals potentially remaining in custody for extended periods, there is a likelihood of increased workloads. HCPs must remain vigilant, ensuring that the care provided to these individuals continues to meet high standards and aligns with the care individuals can expect in the community.

Managing Frustrations

The longer-than-usual detention in police custody, coupled with the uncertainty around court appearances and potential remand to prison, may lead to increased frustration among detained individuals. HCPs should be prepared to encounter individuals who are understandably upset or anxious about the delay in their case progression. Which can inturn increase the risk of self-harm. Effective communication, empathy, and maintaining a calm environment will be crucial in managing these challenges and ensuring the mental well-being of detained individuals.

High Standards of Care

Despite the operational pressures and potential increase in detainee numbers, the quality of healthcare provided in custody settings must not waver. HCPs should continue to adhere to established protocols, ensuring that all individuals receive appropriate medical attention, mental health support, and any necessary interventions in a timely manner. HCPs must consider the impact of prolonged detention especially when consider the continuation of an individual's medication.

Conclusion

Operation Early Dawn is a strategic response to the current pressures on the prison estate in the north of England, but it also brings additional responsibilities for police custody HCPs. As this operation unfolds, it is essential for HCPs to stay informed, maintain high standards of care, to enable them to best meet increased demands.