Mobile phones in cells, virtual visits by video-link and even limited internet access for education purposes will become the new normal for prisoners in Scotland. Changes made in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to minimise social contact are considered to have been so successful that they will become permanent. Some point the risk that mobiles (limited to 20 numbers and blocked from receiving calls and taking photos) may be used to organised crime behind bars, but the added value for the mental health of prisoners seems stronger. A senior source noted that one of the major reasons for repeat offending is when a prisoner leaves jail, especially after a long sentence, and has lost touch with family and friends. 

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