Full Sutton

I understand the Board’s enduring concerns about access to accredited treatment for prisoners convicted of sexual offences (PCoSO) and would like to reassure you that suitable interventions remain available. During the reporting period, Building Choices was delivered at HMP Full Sutton for the core population and initial work was undertaken to explore delivery for prisoners convicted of sexual offences. Subsequent changes to population configuration across the LTHSE have reduced local demand for the PCoSO variant at this establishment. Where individuals at HMP Full Sutton require this intervention, arrangements are in place to support access through transfer to other appropriate LTHSE sites. The prison will continue to monitor population needs and adjust delivery as appropriate.

I note the Board’s concern following the withdrawal of the Sycamore Tree programme. While there is currently no direct replacement for this specific course in England, restorative practice continues to form part of the wider rehabilitative approach. HMPPS policy provides a framework for the use of restorative approaches in custody and their application continues to be kept under review alongside accredited interventions.

I am aware that the condition of the workshop complex roof has been raised by the Board previously, reflecting the importance of maintaining safe and functional activity spaces. A recent assessment has identified remedial works required to extend the usable life of the roof. A bid for major maintenance funding will be progressed through established regional property processes. Proposals will be considered alongside other estate priorities, informed by safety, operational need and value for money.

I note that the deterioration of cell windows and the impact on natural light is a matter of serious concern. Replacement of windows would require capital funding and population decanting and is therefore subject to wider estate level planning. Any future investment will be assessed alongside other priorities, including security related requirements and overall estate condition.

I understand the expectation that lessons from the C wing trial should inform future action. A local review has been commissioned to consider the most appropriate options for addressing mould growth within internal corridors, including approaches to other wings. The findings will support informed decision making, subject to funding availability and prioritisation.

I acknowledge that concerns regarding the condition of shower facilities remains an important matter in relation to decency. Following the refurbishment completed on D wing, a local plan has been developed at HMP Full Sutton to address services within residential areas based on assessed need. Progression of further work will remain subject to funding and wider estate priorities.

Mental health provision continues to be delivered within the segregation unit and forms part of established multidisciplinary arrangements, including attendance at segregation review boards and safety intervention meetings. Where staffing pressures have affected service availability, temporary adjustments have been implemented to strengthen weekday provision, with additional management oversight maintained outside core hours. NHS commissioners continue to oversee contract delivery and workforce sufficiency.

As you acknowledge, the Government is introducing new contracts for prison maintenance, these will apply learning from previous contracts with the aim of delivering improved services and better value for money. Maintenance contracts will continue to be monitored through robust contract governance and performance assurance processes.

HMPPS recognises the challenges experienced following the transition to new education IT systems and the impact this initially had on access and reliability. Since implementation, work has taken place to address connectivity issues, including technical updates to stabilise network access. Additional training and guidance have been provided to support staff and learners in using the system more effectively. At HMP Full Sutton, local managers continue to engage constructively with the system provider and education contractor to identify recurring issues, apply local mitigations where possible and escalate matters through formal contract management arrangements. This has supported incremental improvements in system stability. Further refinements to the digital education platform and associated infrastructure remain underway. These are intended to improve consistency, reduce disruption to learning sessions and ensure that prisoners are able to make effective use of the education provision available to them.

Issues raised in your report that fall within local operational responsibility will continue to be addressed by the Governor, who will keep the Board informed of progress.

Issues raised in your report that fall within local operational responsibility will continue to be addressed by the Governor, who will keep the Board informed of progress.

Issues raised in your report that fall within local operational responsibility will continue to be addressed by the Governor, who will keep the Board informed of progress.

Issues raised in your report that fall within local operational responsibility will continue to be addressed by the Governor, who will keep the Board informed of progress.

Issues raised in your report that fall within local operational responsibility will continue to be addressed by the Governor, who will keep the Board informed of progress.