Four members of staff have been formally recognised for their exceptional bravery and professionalism, following a serious incident at HMP Barlinnie.
Stewart Anderson, Daniel Broadley, George Dickens, and Stephen Fyfe rushed to the cell of a person in the depths of a mental health crisis. The individual was threatening violence towards them, and was seriously injured following an attempt on his life.
The four colleagues demonstrated extraordinary care, compassion and bravery, as they administered critical first aid in a situation that posed a clear risk to their own safety. Their swift intervention ultimately saved the person's life.
In recognition of their actions, the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance, visited the establishment to present the officers with Meritorious Conduct Awards - the highest honour in the prison service.
Speaking to the Glasgow Times, Ms Constance said: “They put aside their own self-interest. It does show that the prison service has, on the front line, people who keep others in their care safe. We should recognise that prison officers are changing lives and they saved one in this instance.”
Stewart Anderson, Residential Manager at HMP Barlinnie, said: "It’s difficult because you have to make a judgment call. He had a sharp item and a kettle that was boiling. He did want to end his own life.
"In that moment, you know that you need to do something and you are just hoping you are making the right call."
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Image: Mark Gibson for the Glasgow Times
