Death on the Inside: A Prison Officer's Perspective on Systemic Violence
In a revealing podcast, former prison officer Alex South shares firsthand insights into how the UK prison system perpetuates violence, creating a cycle of trauma for both inmates and staff. The narrative, drawn from South's experiences, highlights a disturbing rise in murders within prison walls that is leaving deep psychological scars on all involved.
The Trauma of Rising Violence
South describes an environment where increasing incidents of fatal violence are not just statistics but real-life events that devastate communities behind bars. Inmates, already vulnerable, face heightened fear and anxiety, while prison officers—tasked with maintaining order—find themselves grappling with the emotional toll of witnessing and managing such brutality. This dual trauma, South argues, is exacerbated by systemic issues that fail to address root causes.
Systemic Failures and Perpetuated Cycles
Despite the grim reality, South emphasises that violence in prisons is not an inevitable outcome. She points to how institutional structures, from overcrowding to inadequate mental health support, contribute to a culture where aggression can flourish. By neglecting rehabilitation and focusing on punitive measures, the system often reinforces rather than reduces violent behaviours, making life harder for staff who are caught in the middle.
A Call for Change and Reflection
Through her account, South calls for a reevaluation of UK criminal justice approaches, suggesting that without significant reforms, the cycle of violence will continue. Her podcast serves as a poignant reminder that behind the headlines, real people—both inmates and officers—are suffering, and that solutions exist if the will to implement them is present.
