Statistics released from an FOI request have shown that just under 25% of prisoners held at Perth Prison are not engaged in work or purposeful activity.
The findings come as the total number of rehabilitation hours across Scotland’s prisons fell by over 300,000 in 2016/17.
Of the 578 prisoners in Perth, there are 360 spots available for work and 187 for purposeful activities. Of the 547 spots available 140 inmates are currently not engaged in work activities, with a further 28 signed off for medical reasons.
Work and purposeful activity has been shown in the past to have a positive impact on reoffending.
The Scottish Conservatives – who obtained the data through Freedom of Information - have repeatedly called for prisoners to be given work or education in jail, both to boost the chances of rehabilitation and pay something back to society.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser said:
“Engaging in work or purposeful activities is important for reducing re-offending and it is disappointing to see so many prisoners in Perth not taking part in this.
“Every prisoner should be compelled to either work or take part in some kind of meaningful activity while they’re in jail.
“Perth prison has a reputation as one of Scotland’s most violent and this isn’t helped by criminals staring at the walls or playing computer games all day.
“Prison is there to keep the public safe and to act as a deterrent to anyone considering criminal behaviour.
“But in addition to that its role in rehabilitation is critical, and we have to make sure every single inmate is involved in that vital process.”