GPS Client Charter

Gambia Prison Services (GPS) Client Charter

1. Introduction

The Gambia Prison Services (GPS) is committed to providing safe, secure, and humane custody for offenders, promoting their rehabilitation, and ensuring the safety of society. This Client Charter sets out our core values, service commitments, and the standards you can expect from us. It also outlines the rights of prisoners and stakeholders and provides a clear framework for complaints and feedback.

2. Our Vision

To be a leading prison service institution in The Gambia that prioritizes security, rehabilitation, and reintegration, contributing to a safer and more just society.

3. Our Mission

To provide secure custody and care for prisoners while upholding human rights, fostering rehabilitation, and promoting societal reintegration.

4. Core Values

  • Professionalism: We will maintain high standards of conduct and competence in all aspects of our work.
  • Integrity: We are committed to transparency, honesty, and accountability in everything we do.
  • Human Dignity: We will treat all prisoners with respect and ensure their rights are upheld.
  • Rehabilitation: We prioritize programs that help inmates reintegrate into society and reduce recidivism.
  • Security: We are dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for inmates, staff, and the public.

5. Service Commitments

We commit to:

  • Safe Custody: Ensuring the secure detention of offenders in compliance with national laws and international human rights standards.
  • Rehabilitation Programs: Offering education, vocational training, and counseling to aid in the rehabilitation of offenders.
  • Healthcare Services: Providing access to comprehensive healthcare services, including mental health care, for all prisoners.
  • Fair and Equal Treatment: Treating every inmate without discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or offense.
  • Family and Legal Access: Facilitating regular, monitored communication between inmates and their families, friends, and legal representatives.
  • Transparency: Communicating clearly about prison rules, procedures, and prisoners' rights.

6. Rights of Prisoners

All prisoners have the right to:

  • Humane Treatment: Prisoners will be treated with dignity and respect, free from torture, inhumane treatment, or degradation.
  • Healthcare: Access to timely medical care, including physical and mental health services.
  • Rehabilitation Opportunities: Access to education, vocational training, and counseling services to prepare for life after incarceration.
  • Legal Representation: The right to communicate with legal representatives confidentially and regularly.
  • Communication: The right to maintain contact with family and friends through visits, phone calls, and letters.
  • Spiritual Care: Freedom to practice one’s religion or spiritual beliefs.

7. Expectations from Clients

We expect inmates, families, and stakeholders to:

  • Respect the rules and regulations of the prison services.
  • Communicate constructively with prison staff.
  • Act with honesty and integrity when engaging with prison services.
  • Provide feedback or lodge complaints through appropriate channels.

8. Complaint and Feedback Procedure

We are committed to handling all complaints with professionalism and confidentiality. Complaints can be submitted in writing or through our formal channels (e.g., suggestion boxes or direct communication).

  • How to Submit a Complaint:
    • Prisoners, families, or stakeholders may submit complaints or feedback to the officer in charge or through designated reporting systems.
  • Response Time: We will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within 5 working days and strive to resolve the issue within 20 working days.
  • Confidentiality: All complaints will be treated confidentially, and complainants will receive updates on the status of their complaint.

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