'The Kennedy Suite' opens at HMP Dumfries

A NEW wellbeing room to help staff “decompress” from the stresses of prison work has been opened at HMP Dumfries.

Designed by staff, for staff, the area provides a safe, calm space for them to reset in moments of difficulty, whether this be in their personal or professional lives.

When asked to identify a suitable name for the wellbeing room, a number asked that it be named after former Governor, Philip (Phil) Kennedy who sadly passed away in 2016.

Phil’s wife, Susan was contacted and gave her blessing for the room to be named in memory of Phil. It is now known as ‘The Kennedy Suite’.

An official opening of The Kennedy Suite took place on Wednesday, 8 May, with Phil’s wife, Susan and their three children Declan, Erin, and Liam in attendance.

Susan said: “It meant a lot to be here today and know that Philip’s memory lives on with others that were important to him."

Andy Hunstone, Governor, said “The Kennedy Suite is a fantastic space for any member of staff or partner agency to use, to reset or decompress from the stressors of daily life or work.

“The room also contains information directing staff to a range of wellbeing resources. It was particularly special to name it after Phil Kennedy who was a well respected and much loved Governor here at HMP Dumfries”.