A groundbreaking device designed to monitor the health of inmates remotely could play a crucial role in addressing the alarming rise in prison deaths in Scotland. Researchers from Heriot-Watt University are developing VisionRF, a low-power radar system capable of detecting subtle chest movements to assess breathing and heart rates from a distance. This technology arrives at a time when the number of deaths in custody has reached its highest level in over a decade, with 64 fatalities reported in the 2024/25 period—an unsettling 60% increase from the previous year.
Addressing a Growing Concern
The need for innovative solutions in prison healthcare has never been more urgent. The latest statistics reveal a troubling trend, with 64 individuals dying while in custody in Scotland, the highest annual total seen since records began. Among these, 16 deaths were confirmed as suicides, while investigations into seven cases remain ongoing.
In England and Wales, the situation is equally concerning, with 401 deaths reported in prison custody for the year ending June 2025. This figure represents a 30% rise from the previous year, including 86 self-inflicted fatalities. The growing crisis has prompted calls for more compassionate and effective methods of monitoring inmate health.
VisionRF: A Discreet Solution
The VisionRF device is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing for continuous monitoring without the need for invasive physical checks that can heighten distress among inmates. It can be installed discreetly in a cell—potentially hidden behind light fixtures—operating autonomously to alert healthcare staff only when vital signs indicate a cause for concern.
Dimitris Anagnostou, an associate professor at Heriot-Watt’s Institute of Signals, Sensors and Systems, emphasised the importance of this technology, stating, “Our aim is to provide a solution that allows early intervention during health emergencies, without adding to distress or stigma.”
Current monitoring practices, including regular overnight checks, can disrupt sleep and exacerbate existing mental health issues. VisionRF aims to alleviate these concerns while maintaining the dignity and privacy of inmates.
Support from Advocacy Groups
The potential impact of VisionRF has garnered attention from organisations dedicated to supporting families of incarcerated individuals. Professor Nancy Loucks, CEO of Families Outside, highlighted the importance of such technology, saying, “With the death rate in prison higher than ever, this technology can reassure families that their loved one’s safety is being monitored.”
The ability to intervene early could prevent deaths related to suicide, substance misuse, and other health issues, which not only benefits inmates and their families but also aids prison staff who may be impacted by the trauma of losing someone in their care.
Future Applications Beyond Prisons
The Heriot-Watt team is optimistic about the broader applications of VisionRF beyond prison settings. With its low-cost and low-power design, the technology could be adapted for use in various healthcare environments, including nursing homes and community care settings. This expansion could significantly improve health monitoring capabilities and outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Dr Anagnostou expressed the team’s commitment to enhancing existing care rather than replacing it. “If we can prevent even one life being lost, this technology will have been worth it,” he noted. There is a belief that VisionRF could offer transformative solutions not just within prisons but across the wider healthcare spectrum.
Why it Matters
The introduction of VisionRF marks a significant step forward in addressing the troubling rise in prison deaths. By facilitating discreet and effective health monitoring, this technology has the potential to save lives and alleviate some of the mental anguish experienced by inmates and their loved ones. Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the pressing need for compassion and innovation within the criminal justice and healthcare systems, particularly for those facing extreme health vulnerabilities. As the conversation surrounding prison reform continues, advancements like VisionRF could be pivotal in ensuring the safety and dignity of individuals in custody.
