Long Lartin

Response
I have read your report with great care, and I acknowledge the Board’s concerns regarding drones. HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) are working hard to deter, detect and disrupt the use of illegal drones around prisons, including the Long-Term High Security Estate. I am pleased to inform the Board that in this financial year we’re investing over £40m in physical security across 34 prisons. This includes circa £10m on anti-drone measures at 15 prisons. Alongside physical countermeasures we are, exploring technology, considering additional legislation, upskilling staff, and working across Government and with international partners on this global issue. Work continues at HMP Long Lartin to review site vulnerabilities and deter such harmful ingress routes from criminals in the wider community. Close collaborative working continues between HMPPS and law enforcement partners in support of this. The Board will be aware that there have been a number of arrests due to conveyance of articles into the prison in the reporting period with prosecutions ongoing.

Response
In relation to the Board’s concerns surrounding security systems, I would like to assure the Board that ensuring the safety and security of both prisoners and staff is a top priority for the Government and HMPPS. I can advise the Board that the project to upgrade all security systems at HMP Long Lartin to a comprehensive and modern standard has been mandated in this year’s capital maintenance programme. The project is in the early stages of development, and I expect the project to be out for tender by the end of July 2025. Once a contractor has been appointed, they will lead and design on the security systems, which will take approximately three years to deliver. Upon completion of the project it will strengthen the site's long-term security infrastructure, ensuring a safer and more resilient environment for all.

Response
As the board will be aware, the performance of the maintenance contractor is continuously assessed and kept under review, focusing on areas of particular concern. There are various Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which provide measurable benchmarks for evaluating performance. HMPPS and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) are working closely with the maintenance contractor to enhance performance and ensure service delivery meets expectations. In addition to this, to support improvements, regular audits and monthly reviews of early working and outstanding defects have been implemented. Clear communication has been prioritised between the MoJ Property management team and facilities management provider, allowing us to jointly address challenges and refine operational strategies. Our approach remains proactive, emphasising cooperation and constructive engagement with the contractor to drive positive outcomes. I am pleased to report to the Board that there have been recent improvements with commitment from AMEY to resolve long term issues. HMPPS and MoJ will continue to assess progress and adjust measures as needed to ensure sustained improvement going forward.

Response
The Board will be aware that HMPPS is currently investing c.£9.7m at HMP Long Lartin on various projects, which will result in significant improvements at HMP Long Lartin. Some of the work projects that are being undertaken include replacing the high voltage electrical cable, fire and water mains as well as installation of sewage macerators. In addition to these projects a separate project to design and install a new kitchen is underway. However, following consultation with the prison, the location of the proposed kitchen was changed to maximise efficiencies during the build phase and minimise the impact on daily operations. HMPPS is currently awaiting the revised scope of works and associated costs. Once received, the project will seek funding for delivery through the capital maintenance governance board.

Response
I note the Board’s concerns regarding the lack of in-cell sanitation. I can confirm to the Board that a proposal for estate investment has been submitted to install in-cell sanitation across all wings. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) projects team will now review the plan, assessing its feasibility to determine accurate pricing and develop a strategic approach for future implementation.

Response
I have read your report with great care, and I acknowledge the Board’s concerns regarding drones. HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) are working hard to deter, detect and disrupt the use of illegal drones around prisons, including the Long-Term High Security Estate. I am pleased to inform the Board that in this financial year we’re investing over £40m in physical security across 34 prisons. This includes circa £10m on anti-drone measures at 15 prisons. Alongside physical countermeasures we are, exploring technology, considering additional legislation, upskilling staff, and working across Government and with international partners on this global issue. Work continues at HMP Long Lartin to review site vulnerabilities and deter such harmful ingress routes from criminals in the wider community. Close collaborative working continues between HMPPS and law enforcement partners in support of this. The Board will be aware that there have been a number of arrests due to conveyance of articles into the prison in the reporting period with prosecutions ongoing.

Response
In relation to the Board’s concerns surrounding security systems, I would like to assure the Board that ensuring the safety and security of both prisoners and staff is a top priority for the Government and HMPPS. I can advise the Board that the project to upgrade all security systems at HMP Long Lartin to a comprehensive and modern standard has been mandated in this year’s capital maintenance programme. The project is in the early stages of development, and I expect the project to be out for tender by the end of July 2025. Once a contractor has been appointed, they will lead and design on the security systems, which will take approximately three years to deliver. Upon completion of the project it will strengthen the site's long-term security infrastructure, ensuring a safer and more resilient environment for all.

Response
The Board will be aware that HMPPS is currently investing c.£9.7m at HMP Long Lartin on various projects, which will result in significant improvements at HMP Long Lartin. Some of the work projects that are being undertaken include replacing the high voltage electrical cable, fire and water mains as well as installation of sewage macerators. In addition to these projects a separate project to design and install a new kitchen is underway. However, following consultation with the prison, the location of the proposed kitchen was changed to maximise efficiencies during the build phase and minimise the impact on daily operations. HMPPS is currently awaiting the revised scope of works and associated costs. Once received, the project will seek funding for delivery through the capital maintenance governance board.

Response
NHS England are committed to ensuring facilities within 24-hour healthcare units are fit for purpose for the prisoners being housed in the healthcare centre. As the Board will be aware there has been recent refurbishment work taking place on the inpatient cells. Furthermore, HMP Long Lartin will utilise the Palliative Suite and end-of-life cell as and when required.

Response
HMPPS has introduced ‘Progress in Workshop’ booklets across all industry settings at HMP Long Lartin. These booklets support structured planning and progression, enabling prisoners to track their development, set individual learning goals, and identify transferable skills. This initiative creates a clearer pathway from basic tasks to more complex, skilled roles within the workshops. To enhance the scope and variety of prison industries, several new initiatives are underway. A bicycle repair workshop is planned, offering hands-on vocational training in a growing employment sector. A launderette facility is in development that is expected to provide meaningful employment for up to 30 prisoners while offering experience in logistics, hygiene standards, and service delivery. A recycling shop is also being considered, aimed at reducing the prison’s environmental footprint while providing community-focused work and access to qualifications. Existing industries are being diversified to broaden opportunities further. In the textiles workshop, sourcing a wider range of garments is being explored in anticipation of more engaging and skilled tasks. Similarly, the woodcraft workshops will begin producing a broader selection of in-cell furniture, allowing prisoners to develop advanced techniques and work on intricate projects. These developments reflect HMPPS’ commitment to a purposeful and ambitious prison industries curriculum - one that helps prisoners gain meaningful skills, experience a sense of achievement, and prepare effectively for employment upon release.

Response
In relation to the Board’s concerns surrounding security systems, I would like to assure the Board that ensuring the safety and security of both prisoners and staff is a top priority for the Government and HMPPS. I can advise the Board that the project to upgrade all security systems at HMP Long Lartin to a comprehensive and modern standard has been mandated in this year’s capital maintenance programme. The project is in the early stages of development, and I expect the project to be out for tender by the end of July 2025. Once a contractor has been appointed, they will lead and design on the security systems, which will take approximately three years to deliver. Upon completion of the project it will strengthen the site's long-term security infrastructure, ensuring a safer and more resilient environment for all.

Response
As the board will be aware, the performance of the maintenance contractor is continuously assessed and kept under review, focusing on areas of particular concern. There are various Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which provide measurable benchmarks for evaluating performance. HMPPS and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) are working closely with the maintenance contractor to enhance performance and ensure service delivery meets expectations. In addition to this, to support improvements, regular audits and monthly reviews of early working and outstanding defects have been implemented. Clear communication has been prioritised between the MoJ Property management team and facilities management provider, allowing us to jointly address challenges and refine operational strategies. Our approach remains proactive, emphasising cooperation and constructive engagement with the contractor to drive positive outcomes. I am pleased to report to the Board that there have been recent improvements with commitment from AMEY to resolve long term issues. HMPPS and MoJ will continue to assess progress and adjust measures as needed to ensure sustained improvement going forward.

Response
Some improvement, however A-D wings do not facilitate a remedy. Some specific initiatives including biohazard team.

Response
Key work and regime have improved during early 2024. New profile should further improve key work sessions.

Response
Key work and regime have improved during early 2024. New profile should further improve key work sessions.

Response
Reception services, prisoners’ access to and property needs to improve. Reduction in compensation claims.