PRESTON Prison is leading the way in helping prisoners adapt to life behind bars with its award winning night centre.

From organising pets left behind at home to telling family members of a change in circumstance, the centre's staff focuses on the individual needs of inmates during the early days of sentence.

The scheme, the first of its kind, was started in February 2000 with the aim of cutting the suicide rate among inmates. Other prisons are now following suit with similar schemes.

The centre was recently awarded the Butler Trust Award for its exceptionally dedicated work undertaken by staff in the prison service and the trust's patron Princess Anne recently visited the centre.

The assessment process continues over a few days and prisoners who may be withdrawing from drug abuse are referred to the drug detox unit to be supported through a three-week detoxification programme. Other facilities include information on the prison, such as anti-bullying, physical education and employment opportunities.

Governor Alan Brown said: "The centre is well established and since its implementation there has been a reduction in the number of suicides and attempted suicides by new receptions at HMP Preston."