A personal record card, based on the definition of a "personal record" in certain contexts like prison rules, is a document or file containing required information prepared and maintained for an individual who is or has been a prisoner.
Understanding the Personal Record
According to the provided reference, a "personal record" means:
any record which is required by prison rules to be prepared and maintained in relation to any prisoner (and it is immaterial whether or not the individual concerned is still a prisoner at the time of any alleged offence);
This definition highlights several key aspects:
- Requirement: These records are not optional; they are mandated by established prison rules.
- Scope: The record relates to any individual who is or was a prisoner.
- Purpose: It is prepared and maintained specifically in relation to the prisoner.
- Status: The record's importance remains even if the individual is no longer incarcerated.
A "personal record card" is essentially a format – perhaps a physical card or a digital file/entry – used to store this mandated information about a prisoner.
Why Are Personal Records Maintained?
Personal records are crucial for the effective and lawful administration of prisons. They serve multiple purposes, including:
- Tracking: Monitoring a prisoner's location, status, and movements within the system.
- Management: Informing decisions regarding their security level, work assignments, educational programs, and healthcare needs.
- Case History: Documenting behavior, disciplinary actions, achievements, visits, and communications.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring that prison staff follow procedures and that the prisoner's rights are respected according to regulations.
- Record Keeping: Providing a historical account for review, audits, or legal proceedings.
What Information Might a Personal Record Card Contain?
While the specific contents would be dictated by the relevant prison rules, a personal record card (or file) would typically include a range of data points about the individual. Examples could include:
- Personal identification details (name, date of birth, mugshot, physical characteristics)
- Conviction details (offense(s), sentence length, release date)
- Security classification
- Assignment history (cell block, work details)
- Educational and program participation
- Medical and mental health information
- Disciplinary record
- Visitor log
- Correspondence log
- Emergency contact information
This structured record-keeping ensures that comprehensive information about each prisoner is readily available to authorized personnel as required by regulations.
