Umer Khalid, a 22-year-old prisoner with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, claims he has been forced to crawl around Wormwood Scrubs prison due to inadequate treatment and lack of a suitable wheelchair. Khalid, who is awaiting trial for alleged involvement in a Palestine Action protest at RAF Brize Norton, says he has had to crawl to obtain medication and was left in his cell during a fire alarm evacuation.
Khalid, from Stockport, described his condition as 'dehumanising', comparing himself to an injured stray dog he saw in Pakistan. He says his muscles have wasted away to the point where skin hangs off his bones, a description confirmed by recent visitors. He claims he waited weeks for crutches, which he is now too weak to use, and then for a wheelchair that does not fit in his cell or corridor.
The prisoner says he fell out of the wheelchair twice trying to enter his cell and was later told it could only be used for visits and appointments. He missed neurologist and physiotherapy appointments because he could not get to them, and has only seen a physio once this year. He also alleges he went 26 days without a shower while waiting for a shower chair.
Khalid, who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy in 2014, claims healthcare workers accused him of exaggerating his condition. He is demanding proper medical treatment, a suitable wheelchair, and the release of his medical records to his legal team. His mother, Shabana Khalid, described him as 'a skeleton with skin hanging off him' and expressed frustration at the prison's response.
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'The Prison Service caters to all disabilities. All prisoners’ needs are assessed when they enter custody – with arrangements made, and appropriate action taken to ensure they are met.'
