Sara Snell has been appointed the new HM Chief Inspector of
Prisons for Scotland.
Ms Snell has an extensive experience in the UK justice system
having worked in HM Prison Service in England and Wales for 25
years.
She succeeds Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, who has served in the role
since 2018. Wendy stepped down in August 2024 and since then
Stephen Sandham has been acting Chief Inspector.
Ms Snell is expected to start her appointment in early February
2025.
Justice Secretary said:
“I welcome the appointment of Sara Snell as Scotland's next Chief
Inspector of Prisons. There is no doubt that the Scottish prison
system faces a significant challenge due to the rising numbers of
those in prison and the increasing complexity of that population.
The independent scrutiny of the Inspectorate plays a vital role
in informing our response to that.
“Sara Snell's deep understanding of the operational complexities
of prisons, as well as her longstanding commitment to human
rights in places of detention will ensure she brings great value
to this crucial role at such a critical time, and I look forward
to working with her.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Stephen
Sandham for stepping into the role of acting Chief Inspector
bringing continuity and a steady hand in this interim period. I
look forward to working with Ms Snell and Mr Sandham as he
returns to the position of Deputy Chief Inspector.”
Sara Snell said:
“It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed to this role. I
look forward to continuing the work of my predecessors in
highlighting both the challenges and achievements in improving
treatment and conditions in Scottish prisons and court custody
suites. I am particularly excited by the opportunity for
collaboration in developing systemic solutions that can support
these vital services and our community.”
Background
Sara Snell was selected through an open recruitment process
conducted in line with the Civil Service Commission Recruitment
Principles.
Sara Snell has a wealth of operational experience in prisons and
with prisoners. Her 25 years in England and Wales included
governing two prisons and leading an inspection team. She has
spent the last nine years as a prison systems adviser at the
International Committee of the Red Cross, where she has been
responsible for applying international humanitarian law and
standards to improve the treatment and conditions of people
detained across the world.
