Program Teaches Inmates "Body Percussion" to Channel Their Emotions

A prison in Devon, HMP Dartmoor, is investing nearly £10,000 in a unique program aimed at helping inmates manage their anger. The program, known as "body percussion," teaches prisoners to use different parts of their bodies, such as stamping their feet and clicking their fingers, to create music. The initiative is part of a year-long contract with Wiltshire firm Kaboom!, and popular tracks used in the lessons include Pharrell Williams' "Happy" and Justin Timberlake's "Can't Stop the Feeling."

Ministry of Justice Defends the Program as Cognitive-Based Therapy Workshops

The Ministry of Justice has defended the spending, stating that the £9,600 deal with Kaboom! is for "cognitive-based therapy workshops." The program aims to provide inmates with a therapeutic outlet for their emotions and ultimately reduce crime, thus protecting the public and saving taxpayer money. The Ministry of Justice's support comes despite recent findings that HMP Dartmoor is failing to provide adequate living conditions, education, and work opportunities for prisoners.

Controversy Surrounds Prison System Amidst Rising Assaults and Officer Resignations

The introduction of the body percussion program has sparked controversy amidst ongoing issues with the UK prison system. Over the past year, one in nine prison officers have left their positions, and there has been a nine percent increase in assaults in prisons compared to the previous year, with around 450 assaults occurring each week. Critics argue that the government's focus should be on improving safety and security within prisons rather than investing in unconventional initiatives.

Labour Party Criticizes "Total Chaos" in the Prison System

The Labour Party has been quick to criticize the government's handling of the prison system, with a party source stating, "Our prison system is in total chaos. This move beggars belief and would be laughable if the Tories weren't utterly incapable of keeping the public safe." The party's concerns highlight the need for substantial improvements to the prison system to address the growing challenges it faces.

In spite of the criticism, the Prison Service maintains that programs like body percussion are effective in reducing crime rates and ultimately protecting the public. As the UK prison system continues to grapple with various issues, it remains to be seen whether initiatives like this will have a lasting impact.