Race to the top

While race and ethnicity have long been a feature within criminal justice debate, the Black Lives Matter protests and the reaction that followed, sharpened the focus on dignity, fairness, respect and decency for those from ethnic minorities living (and working) in the criminal justice system.

Prisoner Policy Network members have often raised the issue of race and ethnicity in discussion groups and correspondences.

In this national consultation, we sought to capture the perspectives of current serving prisoners and former prisoners and their families on race and ethnicity, to understand how their own ethnicity had impacted on their time in prison, and to explore any further views on racial equality or discrimination in the system.

Our intention with this report was to stimulate positive action with clear recommendations for change.