Prisoners 'will care for older cellmates' to tackle burden caused by growing number of elderly convicts Prison population of over 60s more than double 2002 Experts say younger offenders could gain skills Young prisoners could become carers for their cellmates in order to tackle the burden of elderly inmates. The number of convicts aged over 60 has more than doubled since 2002, but few prisons have the staff to care for them. Experts believe younger offenders could become carers, gaining valuable skills. Behind bars: Young prisoners could become carers for older cellmates One prison already operates a 'buddy scheme' in which inmates clean and collect meals for older prisoners. Eoin McLennan-Murray, president of the Prison Governors Association, said: 'It is the most cost-efficient way of offering support.' Ministry of Justice and Whitehall sources confirmed the option is being considered. The number of prisoners over 60 has risen 142 per cent in ten years, reaching 3,333 in 2012, and prompting a Justice Select Committee inquiry. MPs will investigate whether elderly prisoners' treatment 'complies with equality and human rights legislation' and if a national strategy for their treatment should be established.