The Prisons and Young Offenders Institutions (Scotland) Rules 2011

Escorted day absence

101.—(1) In this rule, “escorted day absence” means a 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 and subject to any direction made by the Scottish Ministers under paragraph (4), the Governor may grant 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 must be escorted by an officer or officers throughout the period of absence from the prison.

(4) For the purposes of escorted day absence the Scottish Ministers may specify in a direction—

(a) the criteria about which the Governor must be satisfied before granting escorted day absence;

(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).