The Royal College of Nursing’s Scotland Headquarters in Edinburgh is currently hosting a compelling, free-to-visit exhibition exploring the evolution of healthcare within the carceral system. Prison Nursing Unlocked: A History of Care and Justice traces the progression of medical intervention behind bars, beginning with the pioneering reforms of Elizabeth Fry and concluding with the indispensable role of modern nursing professionals.
The exhibition provides a comprehensive overview of the field, encompassing the experiences of the suffragettes, the establishment of secure hospitals, and a variety of both historic and contemporary initiatives.
Waterside Press Connection
We are pleased to note that Waterside Press authors Kirstin Anderson and Professor Mike Nellis attended the exhibition’s opening in February. The event features The Barlinnie Special Unit: Art, Punishment & Innovation (edited by Anderson with contributions from Nellis) as a key modern reference point for innovation within the Scottish penal system.
Visit Information
For those involved in penal affairs or visiting Edinburgh, the exhibition remains open until 30 September 2026. This commendable event offers a unique perspective on the intersection of justice and healthcare.
Full details regarding location and opening hours can be found via the Royal College of Nursing Scotland: