HMP MOORLANDS is in the midst of a Covid outbreak as 80 people at the prison have tested positive this week.
Symptomatic Covid patients at HMP Moorlands near Doncaster will have to isolate in their cells unable to shower or exercise.
A letter from the Governor to all inmates which was shared on social media said that any inmate who showed Covid symptoms would have to isolate pending a Covid test and they would not have access to showers or exercise during that period.
If anyone returns a positive test then they will operate an “outbreak regime”.
Inmates will then have access to showers on alternating days between Monday and Thursday. For instance, shower on Monday, exercise on Tuesday.
Between Friday and Sunday, inmates will have one shower and one exercise period before the next week begins.
The prison will provide the process where staffing measures allow.
The Covid guidelines in the prison require face masks and coverings to be worn at all times with social distancing of two metres needed as well.
The prison specifies that distancing does include inmates having to remain two metres away from cell windows on exercise periods.
The letter from the Governor was shared on the Prison’s twitter account on Monday.
Hopefully this notice, which will be shared with all our men, answers some of the questions we understand you all have. pic.twitter.com/vCuhZRRwer
— HMP YOI Moorland (@HMPMoorland) February 15, 2021
If there is a confirmed or suspected case of Covid, the inmates will be unable to access video links, parole hearings or legal visits.
Purple visits, which are secure video calls with someone in prison, are also only available for men experiencing no symptoms or if they have tested negative.
Last week, the prison shared on social media that they understood that this is a difficult time. “We know the current situation is worrying for everyone living/working at Moorland & families, but we’re working hard with our health providers and Public Health England to limit the spread of Covid and keep everyone safe.
“We appreciate all the patience and understanding everyone is showing.”
Updates are being provided on the @HMPMoorland Twitter account.