Publications

This briefing reviews the work of organisations and groups engaged in radical and abolitionist campaigns for prisoner rights, and resistance to penal reforms in Scotland during a period of heightened anti-prison activism. Archival materials from 1972-1987 bring to light a number of grassroots groups and campaigns in Scotland not previously researched. The 1970/80s were undeniably a period of violence and trauma for prisoners, families, and staff, but this review indicates it was also a time of organised resistance and shifting perspectives.

This briefing paper had support from the SCCJR PGR Rapid Response Briefing Paper fund.