The Prisons and Young Offenders Institutions (Scotland) Rules 2006

Escorted day absence

112.—(1) In this rule, “escorted day absence” means leave of absence granted to a prisoner, under escort from the prison, for a period not exceeding 1 day, to enable the prisoner–

(a) to visit a near relative who it appears to the Governor is dangerously ill;

(b) to attend the funeral of a near relative; or

(c) to attend at any place for any other reason where the Governor is of the view there are exceptional circumstances.

(2) On the written application of a prisoner, the Governor may grant, subject to and in accordance with the provisions of this rule and any operational requirements, escorted day absence to the prisoner if satisfied that the purpose of the application is genuine and appropriate.

(3) Where the Governor grants escorted day absence, the prisoner concerned shall be escorted by an officer or officers throughout the period of absence from the prison.

(4) For the purposes of escorted day absence in terms of this rule, the Scottish Ministers may specify in a direction–

(a) the criteria about which the Governor must be satisfied before granting leave of absence for the purpose specified in paragraph (1)(a);

(b) the persons who are to be treated as near relatives of the prisoner; and

(c) the proceedings, services or ceremonies which a prisoner may attend for the purpose specified in paragraph (1)(b).