Drake Hall is a prison and young offender institute for women aged 18 and over based in Eccleshall, Staffordshire. On the 18th December I was invited to visit the prison and attend its staff briefing. I – together with my son Zack, who accompanied me as my consort – was met by Mr Darren Hudson, Deputy Governor of Drake Hall, who provided us with a guided tour of the facilities.
We then attended the staff briefing, during which everyone was brought up to date with what was happening within the prison. A number of long service medals were also handed out to those who had achieved 20 years of service. I had the great honour of presenting these medals, as well as saying a few words of thanks to those who dedicate their working careers to helping those within the prison system. We then shared lunch with the Award-winning members of staff.
Drake Hall is an extremely well-run prison, which offers comprehensive and successful rehabilitation courses to its inmates. I believe we often forget the amazing work our prison wardens do, often under extreme pressure, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Drake Hall for their continued hard work and dedication.