Only two social workers are currently employed within the Icelandic prison system, tending to a total of 380 individuals, dv.is reports.
Litla Hraun Prison. Photo by Páll Stefánsson.
Inmates in Icelandic prisons currently number approximately 170 and an additional 210 individuals are on parole.
Thereof, one hundred have special conditions and depend on surveillance and caretaking. It is generally considered that the normal caseload for a social worker is 50 individuals.
When it comes to particularly serious issues such as child welfare, prison cases, and cases dealing with psychiatric issues, the normal caseload for a social worker is estimated at 35 individuals, which ensures proper overview and administering of care and treatment.
Therefore, the prison system is severely understaffed when it comes to social workers.
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