Bristol Walk Fest events at Glenside Hospital Museum
FREE walking tour for Bristol Walk Fest
Behind Closed Doors: The Hidden Mental Health Crisis in Prisons
A talk on Thurs 7th May 7.30pm
Hosted by Paul Gavin & Dr Cody Porter at Glenside Hospital Museum
This talk will explore the largely unseen mental health crisis unfolding within our prison system.
While prisons are often viewed as places of punishment and containment, they have increasingly become de facto mental health institutions—yet without the resources, training, or support required to meet this demand.
Glenside Hospital Museum in Fishponds, Bristol
Thursday 7th May at 7.30pm
Drawing on research and practice, the session examines the prevalence of mental health conditions among incarcerated populations, the impact of isolation, overcrowding, and violence, and the systemic barriers to effective care.
The talk will also consider how stigma, underfunding, and institutional priorities contribute to the marginalisation of prisoners’ mental health needs. Particular attention is given to the lived experiences of those inside, highlighting how distress is often misunderstood or criminalised rather than treated.
Ultimately, this session invites critical reflection on the role of prisons in responding to vulnerability, and asks whether current approaches are sustainable, ethical, or just. It will be of interest to practitioners, researchers, and anyone concerned with justice, health, and social inequality.
About the host speakers
Paul Gavin is the Programme Leader on the BA(Hons) Criminology and the BSc(Hons) Criminology with Psychology degree at UWE. He is the module leader for the second year module Mental Health, Crime and Criminal Justice. He has over 20 years’ experience working in a wide range of academic, policy and research related roles.
Prior to joining UWE in 2021, he held positions at Bath Spa University, Canterbury Christchurch University and in the Department of Justice in Ireland.
Dr Cody Porter is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at UWE Bristol. Prior to entering academic she worked in NHS forensic services supporting those with complex criminal histories who were detained under the Mental Health Act.
She is a Trustee for Circles Southwest and specialises in employability for those with a criminal record. She is also an active researcher in the field of investigative interviewing and lie detection.
Location & Parking in Fishponds (BS16 1DD)
During evening events and on Saturdays we offer free parking outside the museum, in the small car park (subject to availability of spaces).
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Other events at Glenside Hospital Museum
We host a full calendar of events at Glenside Hospital Museum, from Tea in the Turret each Saturday through to art exhibitions and guided walking tours of the grounds throughout the warmer months. Please scroll down for a small taster...
Tea in the Turret experience
This quirky afternoon tea experience takes you on an adventure up a secret spiral staircase and into the hidden balcony area, giving an aerial view of our museum while you relax with a cup of tea and slice of cake in amongst a creative display.
Booking required.
Future events and experiences
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