New Chief Inspector of Prisons

Sara Snell has been appointed the new HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland.

Ms Snell has an extensive experience in the UK justice system having worked in HM Prison Service in England and Wales for 25 years.

She succeeds Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, who has served in the role since 2018. Wendy stepped down in August 2024 and since then Stephen Sandham has been acting Chief Inspector.

Ms Snell is expected to start her appointment in early February 2025.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said:

“I welcome the appointment of Sara Snell as Scotland’s next Chief Inspector of Prisons. There is no doubt that the Scottish prison system faces a significant challenge due to the rising numbers of those in prison and the increasing complexity of that population. The independent scrutiny of the Inspectorate plays a vital role in informing our response to that.

“Sara Snell’s deep understanding of the operational complexities of prisons, as well as her longstanding commitment to human rights in places of detention will ensure she brings great value to this crucial role at such a critical time, and I look forward to working with her.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Stephen Sandham for stepping into the role of acting Chief Inspector bringing continuity and a steady hand in this interim period. I look forward to working with Ms Snell and Mr Sandham as he returns to the position of Deputy Chief Inspector.”

Sara Snell said:

“It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed to this role. I look forward to continuing the work of my predecessors in highlighting both the challenges and achievements in improving treatment and conditions in Scottish prisons and court custody suites. I am particularly excited by the opportunity for collaboration in developing systemic solutions that can support these vital services and our community.”

Background

Sara Snell was selected through an open recruitment process conducted in line with the Civil Service Commission Recruitment Principles.

Sara Snell has a wealth of operational experience in prisons and with prisoners. Her 25 years in England and Wales included governing two prisons and leading an inspection team. She has spent the last nine years as a prison systems adviser at the International Committee of the Red Cross, where she has been responsible for applying international humanitarian law and standards to improve the treatment and conditions of people detained across the world.