A SCHEME aimed at reducing self-harm and suicide in Scottish prisons has been praised as a major success story on the 20th anniversary of its introduction.

The Samaritans' Listener Scheme offers prisoners a chance to talk in confidence to other inmates who are specially trained and supported by the charity.

It was first introduced in Scotland at HMP Edinburgh in 1994 and now operates across all of the country's 16 prisons.

Colin McConnell, chief executive of the Scottish Prison Service, said: "The long term success of the scheme is through dedication and commitment from Samaritans, our staff and most importantly the listeners.

"They volunteer to provide an invaluable service for their peers who find themselves at a crisis point in their lives.

"The Listener Scheme is an important element in our ability to manage those we recognise as vulnerable within our care.

"They have experience that none of the professionals involved can offer. This is truly a success story and we are proud to support all involved."

Figures from the Samaritans show that there were more than 700 meetings between listeners and fellow prisoners last year.

An event to mark the anniversary was held at Barlinnie Prison yesterday, with Mary Fee MSP attending to show her support, as well as representatives from the 15 Samaritans branches throughout Scotland.

Orla McCaffrey, lead volunteer for the Listener Scheme, said: "Being in prison can have a profound affect on an individual's state of mind.

"Twenty years of supporting vulnerable prisoners across Scotland is an important milestone for both Samaritans and the Scottish Prison Service.

"When a person is in crisis, we know that talking can help a person feel calmer and get through that moment. Talking can help people to see their situation in a different light and find a way forward. We believe this type of support is vital."