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IMB Annual Reports

811 annual reports from Independent Monitoring Boards covering 171 establishments. IMBs provide independent oversight of prisons, immigration removal centres, and secure training centres. Source: imb.org.uk.

811 reports 171 establishments 800 with key concerns

Annual reports

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811 matching reports.

Five Wells
Published 9 Sep 2026 · 1,757 prisoners
Self-harm: 1,603 Assaults: 297
AI-generated report summary HMP Five Wells, a Category C prison, saw a population of 1,757 against an operational capacity of 1,769 by March 2026. The year brought improved staff-prisoner relationships, stable regime delivery, and significant reductions in self-harm, violence, and use of force incidents. However, concerns persist regarding overcrowding, limited purposeful activity, staffing shortfalls (especially for education and workshops), and persistent issues in healthcare access, IT systems, and resettlement outcomes, particularly for employment and accommodation post-release.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Overcrowding due to increased operational capacity, leading to single cells housing two prisoners and impacting purposeful activity.
  • Shortage of suitable space for delivering courses and initiatives, particularly for neurodiversity and mental health support.
  • Inconsistencies in staff implementing the regime, including searching and servery oversight.
  • Delays in vetting new recruits for education and workshops, affecting available places and training with external accreditation.
  • Persistent issues with IT access for healthcare staff (CMS) preventing electronic communication with prisoners and efficient medication management, leading to waiting times for routine healthcare appointments.
  • Recurring themes in deaths in custody investigations (restraints, timeliness of healthcare responses) requiring ongoing review, and quality of violence management documents (CSIPs) needing improvement.
  • Limited capacity for the 'Building Choices' programme and a decline in family visits.
  • Challenges in accommodation on release (27% at risk of homelessness) and low employment rates (7% after six weeks), especially for PCoSOs.
  • Property issues during transfer from other prisons remain a significant driver of IMB applications due to ineffective national processes.
  • Lack of Official Prison Visitors, Storybook Dads service, and opportunities to apply for driving licences.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Rochester
Published 8 Sep 2026 · 750 prisoners
Self-harm: 233 Staff assaults: 82
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Rochester experienced considerable changes during the reporting period, including the introduction of a new PCoSO cohort, necessitating a split-site model. While notable improvements in safety and living conditions on the top site were observed, core issues such as drug availability, staffing challenges, and healthcare waiting times continue to impact the prison. The IMB highlights several areas for development, including the need for a social care provider, improved property handling, and increased rehabilitative provision for PCoSOs, to ensure humane and effective treatment for all prisoners.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Illicit drug availability continues to pose a major threat to safety and security, requiring further national support.
  • There is an urgent need for a social care provider to address the sharp increase in complex needs among older and vulnerable PCoSO prisoners.
  • Living conditions, particularly in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU), remain below acceptable standards, requiring significant investment.
  • Property complaints are persistent, with a lack of effective volumetric control during transfers causing avoidable loss and frustration.
  • Limited rehabilitative provision for PCoSOs impacts their rehabilitation and ability to complete sentence plan requirements.
  • Body worn video cameras (BWVCs) are not used routinely, resulting in missed crucial evidence during conflicts.
  • Adjudications are frequently delayed due to missing paperwork, absent BWVC footage, or prisoner non-attendance.
  • Delays in prisoners receiving their PIN numbers hinder contact with family and legal representatives.
  • The mixing of Mains and PCoSO prisoners during arrival in shared transport creates management difficulties and increases unrest risk.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Styal
Published 8 Sep 2026
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Styal, a women's local prison, faces challenges from an increasing population with complex needs, impacting safety, staffing, and the suitability of its Victorian estate. Despite these pressures, the IMB noted compassionate staff, improvements in healthcare access, and strong post-release employment outcomes. Key concerns include insufficient specialist mental health provision, inadequate accommodation, and a lack of consistent regime and staff support.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The safety approach is compromised by increased numbers of prisoners with complex needs, leading to inappropriate use of the Care and Separation Unit (CSU) for those requiring specialist mental healthcare due to a lack of community provision.
  • Persistent issues with the ingress of drugs remain a concern, exacerbated by the delayed installation of a vital X-ray scanner.
  • Longstanding accommodation problems persist, including maintenance delays, disrepair, and a lack of consistent decent standards, negatively impacting prisoner dignity and safety, especially on houses like Bollinwood.
  • Staffing levels are often insufficient to provide necessary supervision and support, leading to cancelled key work and impacting escorts, while the incentives process and opportunities for prisoner voice remain inconsistent and ineffective.
  • The continued delay in building a new healthcare centre hinders the quality and range of health services, and social care demand is increasing without corresponding staff resources.
  • Significant concerns remain about the availability of appropriate support for vulnerable women on release, particularly for those travelling via Manchester, with risk of disengagement from community services.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Cookham Wood
Published 4 Sep 2026 · 135 prisoners
AI-generated report summary HMP Cookham Wood, an adult male Category C prison, experienced a transition period from a YOI, with its population increasing to 135 by March 2026. While prisoners generally reported feeling safe with good time out of cell and staff interactions, significant challenges remain. These include erratic healthcare provision, chronically under-utilised purposeful activity due to shared services and staffing issues, delays in estate refurbishment, and concerns around resettlement, property, and complaints handling.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Delays in opening refurbished blocks (Cedar, Phoenix, sports hall) reducing purposeful activity and resettlement opportunities.
  • Erratic healthcare provision, long waiting times for specialists (e.g., pain nurses), and issues with medication, compounded by shared contracts with HMP Rochester.
  • Chronically under-utilised vocational training and purposeful activity facilities due to shared contracts and staffing pressures, leading to insufficient skill development for release.
  • Staffing challenges including inadequate training for the transition from YOI to adult prison, loss of experienced staff, and some officers' reluctance to engage in key work.
  • Inadequate reasonable adjustments for disabled prisoners and long delays in minor cell repairs.
  • Frequent issues with lost property during transfers and delays in compensation.
  • Significant delays in complaint responses and poor communication with prisoners.
  • Resettlement failures, with some prisoners leaving unprepared (e.g., no ID, accommodation), leading to quick returns to custody and adjournments of parole hearings.
  • Lack of a dedicated segregation unit, posing a future challenge as population increases.
  • The IMB Board is under-complement and under-resourced, impacting its ability to monitor effectively.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Millsike
Published 3 Sep 2026 · 988 prisoners
Assaults: 104 Staff assaults: 85
AI-generated report summary HMP Millsike, a newly opened Category C prison run by Mitie Care & Custody, experienced a chaotic first year due to a reduced mobilisation period, design flaws, and an inexperienced and short-staffed workforce. Despite an interim Director's efforts leading to improved stability and staff morale, significant challenges persist with staffing, unpredictable regimes, and the prevalence of illicit items. The Board escalated concerns to the Prisons Minister regarding the unacceptable impact on prisoners and systemic issues with new prison openings.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The prison was not safe for prisoners or staff upon opening due to reduced mobilisation time, design faults, and inexperienced staff.
  • High staff attrition and shortages are exacerbated by the rural location and impact all areas, including safety, regime, and provision of basic needs.
  • An unpredictable and restricted regime, including prolonged cell confinement, negatively affected prisoners' mental health and access to purposeful activity.
  • Delays in vetting processes are hindering recruitment across all organizations, including IMB members.
  • The continued opening of new houseblocks despite staff shortages risks further curtailing the regime and jeopardizing stability.
  • Illicit items, including drugs, remain readily available, contributing to bullying, debt, and violence.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Gatwick IRC
Published 2 Sep 2026 · 406 prisoners
Assaults: 76 Staff assaults: 129
AI-generated report summary The Independent Monitoring Board for Gatwick IRCs reported a volatile environment in 2025, with concerns about detainee safety, high lock-up times, and inadequate healthcare provision. Key issues included significant delays in legal support and bail accommodation, and systemic failures in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, especially those affected by Operation Hillmore. Despite some improvements in clinical governance and welfare support, the Board highlighted numerous areas where the centres failed to meet expected standards for fair and humane treatment.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Lack of safety and high volatility within the IRCs, with men feeling unsafe and serious incidents continuing.
  • Inadequate healthcare provision, particularly regarding staffing, mental health support, and failures in critical safeguards like Rule 34 and 35 assessments.
  • Persistent and inhumane lock-up times, restricting detainees to their rooms for 12 hours daily.
  • Systemic failures in access to legal representation and prolonged delays in bail accommodation approval, frustrating legal processes and causing distress.
  • Over-reliance on detention for vulnerable individuals, with detention often extended for months despite evidence of deterioration, rather than considering release.
  • Insufficient preparedness and capacity to manage arrivals under Operation Hillmore, leading to inadequate information, interpretation, and healthcare for vulnerable asylum seekers.
Report year 2025 IRC Concerns
North West and Midlands STHF
Published 28 Aug 2026
AI-generated report summary This report covers the North West and Midlands Short-Term Holding Facility network for the year ending January 2026. The Board highlights commendable staff professionalism and decreases in overall and minor detentions. Key concerns include insufficient IMB staffing, a lack of hot food at East Midlands Airport, security and dignity issues at Holyhead Port, and widespread problems with detainees accessing their own medication.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Insufficient IMB board members and prolonged security vetting hinder monitoring effectiveness.
  • Detainees at East Midlands Airport are denied hot food and face dignity/privacy issues when held in the Controlled Waiting Area.
  • Transfers at Holyhead Port lack secure vehicle bays, exposing detainees to public view and safety risks near the dock.
  • Detained individuals are generally denied access to their own medication, with most facilities relying on unsatisfactory external NHS services.
  • Delays in rectifying estate deficiencies, such as low temperatures in Birmingham Airport's family room and a nine-week female toilet light outage at Sandford House, compromise detainee welfare.
  • Ligature and fall risks persist with baby change mats across the estate, alongside a need to upgrade East Midlands Airport to current safety standards.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Thorn Cross
Published 27 Aug 2026
Self-harm: 4 Assaults: 4 Staff assaults: 0
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Thorn Cross operates as an open, Category D establishment focused on rehabilitation, reporting low levels of violence and self-harm, alongside good staff-prisoner relationships and strong resettlement outcomes. However, the report highlights significant concerns regarding the estate's condition, including an inadequate kitchen and tired residential units, and the ongoing absence of a new CCTV system. Challenges persist in healthcare, particularly mental health engagement and delayed screenings for late arrivals, as well as limitations in regime opportunities due to education cuts and restricted sports facilities.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Illicit items, including new unregulated injections, continue to be found.
  • The kitchen is inadequate and suffers frequent equipment failures, with no clear plan for improvement.
  • Residential units are tired and need investment, with persistent hot water and shower issues.
  • The new Offender Management Unit (OMU) building was demolished due to faults, and its replacement faced significant delays, leaving staff in unsuitable conditions.
  • Some education courses have been cut, reducing prisoner opportunities.
  • The mental health team lacks a telephone, hindering communication and prisoner engagement.
  • A long-standing request for CCTV refit remains on hold due to financial constraints.
  • Supply issues with drug testing kits impact the incentivised substance-free living unit.
  • The sports hall's partial use limits team sporting activities.
  • A significant proportion of prisoners are transferred to Thorn Cross after short periods in closed conditions, raising concerns about their readiness for open conditions.
  • Access to phones for family contact is limited, leading to queuing and missed calls.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Pentonville
Published 26 Aug 2026 · 1,180 prisoners
Self-harm: 435 Assaults: 34 Staff assaults: 15
AI-generated report summary Pentonville, a Category B local prison, continued to face severe challenges, particularly concerning its crumbling fabric, widespread overcrowding, and the resulting inhumane living conditions. Time out of cell remained a significant concern, with many prisoners spending over 22 hours a day locked up. Despite these issues, the Board noted improvements in first-night reception processes and the effectiveness of the Offender Management Unit, alongside positive developments in healthcare staffing and the provision of pre-release support. However, cuts to education, persistent property transfer issues, and inadequate support for young adults remained pressing concerns.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The inhumane living conditions, including crumbling fabric, overcrowding, lack of privacy, and vermin infestations, which contribute to poor mental health, self-harm, and violence.
  • Seriously restricted time out of cell, with many prisoners spending over 22 hours a day locked in their cells, negatively impacting purposeful activity and wellbeing.
  • Significant cuts to prison education provision made during the reporting year, reducing teaching hours and opportunities.
  • The dysfunctional system for the transfer of prisoner property between prisons, causing considerable anxiety and loss for prisoners.
  • Insufficient Listener numbers, underuse of the Wellbeing Centre, and overly complicated ACCT documentation, impacting support for vulnerable prisoners.
  • Pentonville's unsuitability for young adults, with a lack of dedicated national strategy or local facilities for this cohort.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Moorland
Published 25 Aug 2026 · 1,023 prisoners
Self-harm: 477 Assaults: 125 Staff assaults: 37
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Moorland’s reporting year saw positive practices in reception, staff training, and some educational programs, alongside effective crisis response despite a fluctuating population and operational challenges. However, significant concerns remain regarding overcrowded cells, rising violence, and staff-related regime limitations leading to extended in-cell time. Persistent issues with healthcare provision and resettlement support for mental health and IPP prisoners also require urgent attention.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The persistent use of previously single cells as doubles raises concerns about humane treatment.
  • Significant challenges in healthcare provision due to facility disruptions, communication issues, long waiting lists, and high DNA rates for appointments.
  • Staff availability is a major factor limiting out-of-cell time, leading to many prisoners spending up to 22 hours in their cells daily.
  • An upward trend in both prisoner violence incidents and the use of force by staff.
  • The critical shortage of planned housing on release undermines mental health support and increases re-offending risk.
  • Budgetary changes have reduced face-to-face teaching hours and vocational training opportunities.
  • Obstacles in recruiting Listeners, especially among Res 1 prisoners, hinder peer support for self-harm prevention.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Erlestoke
Published 21 Aug 2026
Self-harm: 275 Assaults: 97 Staff assaults: 65
AI-generated report summary HMP Erlestoke, a Category C training prison, reported an operational capacity of 512 prisoners for the year ending March 2026. While self-harm incidents decreased, violent incidents, use of force, and self-isolation increased, largely attributed to staffing shortages and illicit drug challenges. Significant concerns include persistent staffing issues due to vetting delays, a major reduction in education provision, and profound problems in social care for elderly prisoners. The Board commended improvements in ACCT attendance and positive family engagement initiatives, while calling for urgent action on staffing, infrastructure, and regime provision.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Poor quality of induction programme and condition of induction cells.
  • Increase in prisoners self-isolating due to fear and debt.
  • Reduction in the use of body worn cameras and security breaches (unlocked gates).
  • Significant negative impact of vetting delays on staffing levels and staff-prisoner relationships.
  • Inadequate key working sessions and a considerable increase in segregation unit admissions on open ACCTs.
  • Lack of sufficient courtesy keys and the education block remaining inaccessible to wheelchair users, breaching the Equality Act.
  • Profound issues with social care and the management of elderly/frail prisoners, exacerbated by insufficient hospital escorts and ineffective medication supervision.
  • Decimation of education provision and ongoing pressure on the Offender Management Unit.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Oakwood
Published 20 Aug 2026
Self-harm: 1,392 Assaults: 128 Staff assaults: 74
AI-generated report summary HMP Oakwood, a large Category C training prison, generally provides a safe environment with strong staff-prisoner relationships and exceptional family support. However, it faces significant challenges including high IPP recall rates, insufficient neurodiversity support, and anticipated reductions in education provision. Persistent issues with property management, healthcare transfer delays, and food budget constraints continue to be key concerns for the Independent Monitoring Board.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • High proportion of IPP prisoners on recall (72% of 68) and insufficient Probation Service funding to address this.
  • Only one neurodiversity support manager for an estimated 900 neurodivergent prisoners (40% of population), indicating a significant under-resourcing.
  • Expected 5% reduction in education provision despite the prison's focus on training.
  • Inadequate Prison Service resources to detect and deter drone activity.
  • Persistent non-adherence to property policies leading to frequent complaints about missing property.
  • The vast majority of mental health transfers to secure facilities exceed the 28-day limit, compounded by a lack of forensic psychological secure places and 30-week waits for routine mental health referrals.
  • The daily food allowance of £3.16 per prisoner is insufficient given inflation, impacting food quality and portion size, alongside inconsistent PPE use by servery workers.
  • Ongoing issues with the availability of healthcare complaints forms and a general dissatisfaction with the prison's complaints system.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Swinfen Hall
Published 19 Aug 2026 · 611 prisoners
AI-generated report summary Swinfen Hall, a Category C training prison for young adults with a population of 611, faced significant challenges during the reporting year, primarily due to staff shortages, vetting delays, and an unreliable regime with frequent weekend wing closures. Despite positive leadership efforts and some improvements in staff-prisoner interactions, concerns remain regarding dilapidated infrastructure, poor cleanliness, inadequate rehabilitative opportunities for long-sentenced prisoners, and issues with mental health medication withdrawal.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Significant staffing shortages, vetting delays, and a lack of key worker sessions, leading to frequent wing closures and an unreliable regime, particularly at weekends.
  • Dilapidated infrastructure, poor cleanliness, an ongoing rat infestation, and issues with food provision and quality, creating inadequate living conditions.
  • Failure to deliver the promised rehabilitative strategy and comprehensive support for long and life-sentenced young adults, despite previous commitments.
  • Insufficient and unchallenging work and education opportunities, exacerbated by anticipated budget cuts and barriers to higher education funding for long-sentenced individuals.
  • Concerns about mental health provision, including the rapid withdrawal of antipsychotic medication for PTSD and inadequate support for care-experienced young adults, impacting their safety and well-being.
  • Inaccurate recording and inadequate support for self-isolating young adults, coupled with excessive and restrictive stays in the Care and Separation Unit.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Frankland
Published 18 Aug 2026 · 813 prisoners
Assaults: 101 Staff assaults: 43
AI-generated report summary HMP Frankland continues to be a high-security prison for Category A adult men, operating near its capacity of 846. The Board finds it a safe prison with lower violence rates compared to similar establishments, but highlights concerns around gang affiliation, persistent drug use, and drone incursions. Key challenges include staffing shortages impacting regime and healthcare, reduced education provision due to contract changes, and infrastructure issues for an aging and disabled population.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Gang affiliation presents a potential for harm to staff and prisoners, requiring continuous risk analysis.
  • The use of Spice remains prevalent, and drone incursions have notably increased.
  • Issues persist with missing property during transfers and lengthy waits for property upon arrival.
  • Time out of cell has been reduced due to staffing shortages and workshop closures.
  • Securing accumulated visits closer to home is challenging due to wider prison estate capacity.
  • There is a shortage of beds in secure inpatient mental health units, leading to long waits for transfers.
  • Missed healthcare appointments are a regular concern, potentially due to staffing levels.
  • A significant reduction in education provision, staff, and opportunities has occurred due to contract changes.
  • Workshop closures and equipment breakdowns restrict prisoner work opportunities and skill development.
  • Car parking difficulties for staff, contractors, and visitors are raising security concerns.
  • Toilets in the healthcare waiting area are not accessible for disabled prisoners.
  • The prison's infrastructure is not well-designed for the growing elderly and disabled population.
  • The availability of illicit drugs remains a persistent concern.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Leyhill
Published 17 Aug 2026 · 473 prisoners
Self-harm: 5 Assaults: 6 Staff assaults: 2
AI-generated report summary HMP Leyhill, a Category D open prison, has maintained a generally stable and positive environment despite a transitional phase and increasing population complexity, with notable progress in purposeful activity and managing increased workloads. Key challenges include persistent issues with Approved Premises availability, the unjust detention of IPP prisoners, and significant reductions in education provision. The IMB continues to advocate for improvements in these areas to support fair treatment and successful resettlement.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Lack of Approved Premises spaces, leading to prisoners being held beyond release dates and delays in parole progression.
  • The ongoing unjust detention of IPP prisoners beyond their indicative tariffs.
  • Significant reduction in education hours and the removal of several key courses, impacting prisoner skills development and employability.
  • Inefficiency of the external Probation Service, impacting prisoner progression.
  • Problems with prisoner property transfers due to inconsistent policy application across establishments.
  • Unworking emergency call buttons and pull alarms on residential landings, posing a safety risk to elderly and vulnerable prisoners.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Rye Hill
Published 14 Aug 2026 · 1,119 prisoners
Self-harm: 190 Assaults: 33
AI-generated report summary HMP Rye Hill, a Category C training prison for men convicted of sexual offences, successfully completed an expansion, increasing its population to 1119. The report highlights reductions in self-harm and use of force incidents, and a strong community ethos. However, it raises concerns regarding the management of IPP prisoners, persistent issues with access to timely healthcare appointments, and the need for better resettlement opportunities for PCoSOs.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • There is no centrally directed, long-term solution to the injustice of the IPP sentence and its impact on the mental health and wellbeing of affected prisoners.
  • The Government needs to facilitate initiatives for prisons holding prisoners convicted of sexual offences (PCoSOs) to build meaningful national partnerships with employers and charities, and encourage appropriate employment opportunities on release.
  • Prisoners at HMP Rye Hill need timely and clinically appropriate healthcare, addressing persistent missed appointments and delays in obtaining GP appointments, mental-health assessments, and specialist referrals.
  • The cancellation of hospital appointments related to prison staffing issues is a concern, particularly given the disproportionately older population.
  • Physical demands, noise levels, and lack of protective equipment in some work areas (e.g., Industries One) are concerns raised by prisoners.
  • Entry-level roles may be disproportionately difficult for individuals with disabilities, neurodiversity, or limited dexterity, with limited scope for progression if additional support is not effectively implemented.
  • Complaints responses are sometimes overly brief and curt, lacking clarity and understanding for prisoners.
  • Property lost during prisoner transfers to HMP Rye Hill is an ongoing issue.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Yarl’s Wood IRC
Published 12 Aug 2026 · 379 prisoners
Self-harm: 62 Staff assaults: 13
AI-generated report summary Yarl's Wood IRC operated near full capacity in 2025, experiencing increased violence and self-harm incidents. Key concerns included the detention of vulnerable individuals, especially those with mental health needs, the lack of a time limit for detention, and the degrading use of handcuffs during hospital escorts. Delays in mental health transfers and issues with medical record transfers also hindered care, while staff were commended for their professionalism and de-escalation techniques.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The levels of violence and self-harm have increased, alongside aggressive and antisocial behaviour.
  • The Detention Gatekeeper is not robust enough in safeguarding vulnerable persons, leading to the detention of individuals with complex mental health needs, including some who were sectioned.
  • Detention without a time limit is considered unfair and inhumane, with the length and uncertainty of detention negatively impacting mental health.
  • Detained persons attending hospital are almost always handcuffed, which the Board deems degrading and unnecessary given the limited escape risk.
  • The Care and Separation Unit (CSU) is used to house detainees with significant mental health problems, despite being an unsuitable environment, and delays in mental health transfers to appropriate facilities persist.
  • Many detainees arrive without medical histories, hindering continuous care, and mobile phone signals are inconsistent, impeding communication with solicitors and families.
  • The length of stay in detention and slow case progression continue to be major frustrations for detainees, especially for those seeking voluntary returns.
Report year 2025 IRC Concerns
The Mount
Published 5 Aug 2026 · 1,062 prisoners
AI-generated report summary HMP The Mount experienced minimal change during the reporting period, with a consistent overall atmosphere despite ongoing challenges. The Governor and staff worked diligently to address issues like drugs, overcrowding, and early release schemes, while successfully introducing a progressive regime. However, significant concerns persist regarding the continued inflow of illicit items due to physical infrastructure deficiencies, persistent staffing shortages in the OMU, and critical issues with data quality. Additionally, overcrowding, limited accessibility for disabled prisoners, and the need for refurbishment in showers and the CSU remain areas requiring urgent attention.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Overcrowding and the high number of prisoners with mental health issues require a radical review.
  • The 'epidemic' of drug taking, especially NPS/Spice, continues due to decaying physical infrastructure and lack of effective security measures against illicit items.
  • Persistent deficiencies in the physical prison estate, including inadequate windows and non-functioning perimeter cameras, enable the smuggling of contraband.
  • Ongoing severe staff shortages and excessive workloads in the Offender Management Unit (OMU), leading to many prisoners without a Prison Offender Manager.
  • Inadequate property management and transfer procedures across the prison estate, leading to loss and distress.
  • Flaws in HMPPS's procurement processes, as demonstrated by the avoidable delays in securing a contract for on-wing laundries.
  • Delays in workshop renovations and concerns that, even after completion, there will be insufficient work/training places for the increasing prison population.
  • Persistent doubling up of single cells and the urgent need for shower refurbishment on some wings.
  • Very limited accessibility for disabled prisoners across the estate, including poor wheelchair access and inaccessible medical hatches.
  • The Care and Separation Unit (CSU) requires major refurbishment, including window replacement, to provide a suitable environment.
  • Poor data quality and reliability hinder effective monitoring, analysis, and decision-making by prison management and HMPPS.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Morton Hall
Published 4 Aug 2026 · 346 prisoners
Self-harm: 115 Assaults: 33 Staff assaults: 7
AI-generated report summary HMP Morton Hall, a Category C prison for foreign national offenders, reported a generally stable regime and improvements in keyworker sessions and healthcare provision during 2025. However, the Board expressed significant concerns about a 74% increase in self-harm, rising use of force incidents, and ongoing issues with delayed or lost prisoner property transfers. A 35% cut to education provision severely impacted purposeful activity and employment opportunities, alongside persistent delays in the Early Removal Scheme for foreign national prisoners.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Incidents of self-harm increased by 74% in 2025, and use of force incidents also rose, requiring further analysis and potential improvements in ACCT processes and staff training.
  • Property transfers from other prisons are often delayed or lost, and property remains a major cause of complaints with no measurable improvement since 2024, highlighting issues with record management and inconsistent rules across the prison network.
  • The 35% cut in education provision led to significant reductions in classes and spaces, negatively impacting purposeful activity and the ability to find employment for all prisoners.
  • There are significant and persistent delays in the removal of foreign national prisoners eligible for the Early Removal Scheme, extending their time in prison due to Home Office backlogs and appeals.
  • The project to build a small secure house block was abandoned after considerable expenditure and disruption, representing wasted resources.
  • The lengthy staff vetting period (around 40 weeks) risks losing potential recruits and delays appointments, such as that of the Managing Chaplain.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Manchester
Published 23 Jul 2026 · 600 prisoners
Self-harm: 760 Assaults: 172 Staff assaults: 107
AI-generated report summary HMP Manchester, a high-security facility, faces critical challenges including pervasive illicit item conveyance, high levels of violence, and extensive dilapidation of the prison estate. Severe staff shortages (operating at 60% capacity) frequently curtail the regime, leading to many prisoners spending up to 23 hours a day in their cells and limited access to education and purposeful activity. The Board expresses significant concerns regarding the urgent need for infrastructure investment, improved staff recruitment and retention, and a more predictable regime to enhance safety and rehabilitation opportunities for prisoners.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The pervasive presence of drones and illicit communication devices fundamentally undermines prison safety, with violence remaining unacceptably high and staff vulnerable in many areas.
  • The physical condition of the prison is very poor, characterised by widespread decay, vermin, rubbish, damaged cells, and frequent disruptions to essential services like heating and water.
  • Severe staff shortages and high sickness levels mean the prison operates at only 60% of its required capacity, leading to frequent regime curtailments and prisoners spending up to 23 hours in cells.
  • The progression of prisoners is significantly hampered by the lack of a predictable and meaningful regime, compounded by a reduction in education provision and the loss of vocational courses crucial for resettlement.
  • Significant underinvestment in prison infrastructure and extensive maintenance backlogs contribute to inadequate living conditions and inhibit timely remedial work.
  • There are persistent challenges regarding the timely transfer of mentally unwell prisoners to appropriate NHS secure forensic estates.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Huntercombe
Published 22 Jul 2026 · 491 prisoners
Self-harm: 73 Assaults: 65 Staff assaults: 19
AI-generated report summary This IMB report for HMP Huntercombe highlights a generally safe environment, yet raises significant concerns about increased assaults and self-harm. Persistent issues with heating, hot water, and cell ventilation negatively impact humane treatment. Challenges in property management, reduced education, and limited resettlement opportunities further underscore areas needing urgent attention.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • An increase in both prisoner-on-prisoner assaults (27% rise) and self-harm incidents (from 63 to 73).
  • The persistent failure of the central heating and hot water system, which has been an issue for the past four years with no permanent solution.
  • Poor ventilation in cells, with an air quality report finding no cell met minimum requirements, leading to inhumane conditions.
  • Ongoing problems with managing prisoner property during transfers due to a lack of volumetric control, despite new HMPPS policy.
  • Reduced education provision and limited opportunities for meaningful activity and release on temporary licence (ROTL).
  • The football pitch remaining out of use since April 2025.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Humber
Published 21 Jul 2026 · 977 prisoners
Self-harm: 879 Assaults: 35 Staff assaults: 9
AI-generated report summary HMP Humber, a Category C resettlement prison, experienced significant pressure during 2025 due to a high turnover of short-term prisoners, impacting its ability to deliver a consistent resettlement regime. Despite these challenges, the Board notes the staff's professionalism in maintaining safety, improving key worker sessions, and developing new initiatives like the vape-free wing. Key concerns remain around technology use, property transfers, and the impact of prisoner churn on regime and resources, alongside questions regarding the education budget and recall policy.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Reduction of the education budget.
  • The new pre-release delivery model is unlikely to reduce prisoner churn, and the policy rationale for immediate recall for non-offence license breaches is unclear.
  • Lack of technology use in the prison leads to duplication and delay.
  • Ongoing and systemic delays in property transfer from previous establishments.
  • Conflicting demands on resources due to diverse prisoner cohorts (lifers, short-term recall, short-sentence).
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Northumberland
Published 17 Jul 2026 · 1,194 prisoners
AI-generated report summary HMP Northumberland maintains generally good safety levels compared to similar prisons, despite self-harm and violence remaining static, and saw a reduction in deaths in custody. The prison has made notable improvements in accommodation, healthcare access, and resettlement outcomes, particularly for housing. Key challenges include staffing levels, the need for strategic planning for prison expansion, and ensuring all prisoners can access mandated programmes and vocational qualifications.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The strategic housing worker post, which has improved housing outcomes, remains unfunded.
  • Lack of a clear financial plan for the planned expansion of the prison estate and associated operational costs.
  • Absence of a strategic plan to address the increased staffing requirements for the expanding prison population.
  • Insufficient specialist training for staff to care for elderly prisoners, including those with dementia.
  • The induction/assessment booklet is considered overly lengthy and onerous for new arrivals.
  • Concerns from other prisoners about the priority treatment of transgender prisoners during reception.
  • Delays in induction for new prisoners, particularly over the Christmas period, leading to extended stays in the induction unit.
  • Short staffing in Block 5 (induction unit) making it difficult to deal appropriately with prisoners.
  • Some newly arrived prisoners not receiving information about the IMB.
  • Poor ventilation observed in the shower in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU).
  • Difficulties for some prisoners in accessing mandated programmes due to pressure on places or lack of availability.
  • Restricted library access negatively affecting prisoners needing special help with reading.
  • Questions regarding the appropriate range and selection processes of education courses.
  • Prisoners in engineering workshops are unable to achieve vocational qualifications for valuable skills.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Highpoint
Published 16 Jul 2026 · 1,300 prisoners
Self-harm: 419 Assaults: 254 Staff assaults: 121
AI-generated report summary HMP Highpoint, a male Category C training and resettlement prison with a population of around 1,300, faced significant challenges in 2025 including high levels of violence, drug-related emergencies, and an increase in use of force incidents. The Board raised concerns about maintenance, staff experience, and delays in psychological therapies, but commended improvements in HR, key worker development, and the professionalism of staff in the segregation unit. Employment on release targets were consistently exceeded.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • High levels of violence, self-harm, and use of force, fueled by drug intoxication and debt, creating an unstable prison environment.
  • Significant issues with maintenance and general repair by Gov Facility Services Ltd (GFSL), with works not completed timely, affecting facilities and fire safety.
  • Long waiting times for psychological support and therapy, with only 39% of referrals meeting national targets.
  • Funding issues impacting education and training provision, leading to empty workshops and a lack of instructors on the north site.
  • Persistent problems with the loss or delay of prisoners' property during transfers and within the establishment, alongside a lack of feedback on complaints.
  • Growing inexperience among prison officer staff and reductions in resettlement staff numbers, impacting support and release planning.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Onley
Published 15 Jul 2026
Self-harm: 416 Assaults: 154 Staff assaults: 53
AI-generated report summary HMP Onley, a Category C prison, experienced significant challenges in safety, conditions, and staffing during the reporting year. High levels of illicit substances and drone activity contributed to violence and self-harm, while a large number of inexperienced officers struggled with de-escalation. Despite some improvements, the estate suffers from poor cell conditions and broken essential equipment, impacting prisoner well-being and purposeful activity.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The high availability of illicit substances continues to drive debt, self-harm, bullying, and violence, exacerbated by significant drone activity.
  • A high number of inexperienced prison officers on wings lack de-escalation skills, contributing to increased use of force incidents and impacting safety.
  • The poor condition of cell windows and older wing facilities, including broken laundry and catering equipment, significantly degrades living conditions and basic decency.
  • Long waiting times for non-emergency dental appointments persist, and despite being fully staffed, the mental health team lacks capacity for additional interventions.
  • Prisoner engagement in education and employment remains a challenge, with staff shortages creating long waitlists for rehabilitative programmes like Building Choices.
  • Delays in staff vetting processes continue to negatively impact daily prison operations and recruitment across all areas.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Derwentside IRC
Published 15 Jul 2026
Self-harm: 65
AI-generated report summary Derwentside IRC continued to operate below capacity for women, with an increasingly settled atmosphere and positive culture noted by the Board. While self-harm incidents decreased and staff support was commended, significant concerns remained regarding the centre's remote location, the routine handcuffing of women for hospital transfers, and persistent issues with catering and communication barriers. The prolonged indecision about the centre's re-role to a male-only facility also created staffing and equality challenges.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The unsuitable remote location of Derwentside continues to cause harm due to arduous journeys and very low visitor numbers, especially for children.
  • A significant proportion of women detained are identified as 'at risk' of worsening mental health, with some having acute mental conditions and lengthy waits for secure hospital beds.
  • The gender imbalance of staff, with a majority being male, creates operational challenges and raises equality concerns, exacerbated by the prolonged indecision over the centre's re-role.
  • Catering consistently receives the most complaints regarding quality and portion sizes.
  • The routine handcuffing of women for hospital transfers is humiliating and causes distress, potentially compromising their health.
  • Key communication issues persist, including non-routine use of translation tablets by staff, delays in wi-fi implementation, and English-only kiosks.
Report year 2025 IRC Concerns
Lowdham Grange
Published 14 Jul 2026 · 660 prisoners
Self-harm: 922 Assaults: 477 Staff assaults: 289
AI-generated report summary HMP Lowdham Grange has shown progress under HMPPS control following contractor change, yet faces significant challenges. Key concerns include high rates of violence, self-harm, and drug availability, exacerbated by persistent staff shortages and the restrictive 'cohorting regime'. While healthcare provision has improved, mental health support and transfers for severely ill prisoners remain inadequate, and property issues continue to cause distress.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Widespread availability of illicit drugs contributing to health hazards, threats, and violence.
  • Persistent staff shortages and high absenteeism, leading to regime restrictions, self-harm, and disruptive behaviour.
  • High levels of violence, particularly prisoner-on-staff assaults, and a high number of use of force incidents.
  • A serious concern about the rising number of prisoners resorting to self-harm, with many requiring emergency hospitalisation and a high level of ACCTs.
  • The poor handling and loss of prisoners' property during transfers, causing significant anger, frustration, and contributing to violent incidents.
  • Lack of provision in secure hospitals, resulting in prisoners with severe mental health problems remaining in segregation for extended periods.
  • The negative impact of the 'cohorting regime' on prisoners' time out of cell, work, and education opportunities.
  • Challenges posed by new and inexperienced staff, including communication barriers with foreign national custody officers on short-term visas.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Berwyn
Published 10 Jul 2026
Assaults: 585 Staff assaults: 214
AI-generated report summary HMP Berwyn, operating near its 2000 capacity, continues to grapple with persistent drug ingress, violence, and significant delays in transferring prisoners to specialist mental health accommodation. High population turnover and early release schemes severely disrupt resettlement planning and overstretch staff, while critical infrastructure, such as the heating system, remains problematic despite previous attempts at resolution. Although the prison has seen positive developments in healthcare and family services, the Board raises key concerns regarding the safety of young adults transferred from youth custody, the breakdown of the complaints system, and cross-border issues affecting English prisoners.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Persistent ingress of drugs and related violence, exacerbated by boredom and debt, with no meaningful reduction observed.
  • Serious concerns about Berwyn's suitability and capacity to safely support 18-year-olds transferred from youth custody due to its sheer size.
  • Continued long waits for specialist mental health accommodation, causing stress to prisoners and staff and leading to prisoner condition deterioration.
  • Systemic disruption to release planning and resettlement due to early release schemes and high population turnover, overstretching probation staff.
  • Persistent infrastructure failures, notably the heating system, incurring significant costs and requiring temporary solutions.
  • Breakdown and significant delays in the complaints system, causing major frustration for prisoners.
  • Persistent cross-border issues adversely affecting English prisoners jailed in Wales, particularly regarding healthcare and resettlement services.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Lancaster Farms
Published 9 Jul 2026 · 560 prisoners
Self-harm: 418 Assaults: 182 Staff assaults: 21
AI-generated report summary HMP Lancaster Farms, a Category C resettlement prison, continues to provide a largely safe environment despite high self-harm incidents (418) and violence (182). Key concerns include significant reductions in education hours, persistent challenges in mental healthcare, and issues with prisoner property and complaints, often exacerbated by national system pressures and high prisoner churn. The Board notes improvements in healthcare communication under new management but highlights ongoing issues with staffing provision and non-compliance with Body Worn Video Camera use.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • High levels of self-harm among prisoners with complex mental health needs who cannot be transferred to specialist facilities.
  • Spikes in violence, prisoner debt, and substance misuse.
  • Continued accommodation of a minority of prisoners in cramped double cells, leading to privacy issues and violence.
  • Persistent estate issues including poor cell ventilation, broken washing machines, and drainage problems.
  • Ineffective handling of prisoner complaints, particularly those from other prisons, and lack of consistent updates.
  • Ongoing issues with lost or delayed prisoner property during transfers between establishments.
  • Variable primary healthcare standards and significant waiting times for appointments (e.g., six weeks for a GP, 18 weeks for physiotherapy).
  • Challenges in mental healthcare provision, including lack of investment and difficulties in securing specialist external accommodation.
  • A 41% reduction in education and training hours, leading to a narrower offer and unoccupied learning spaces.
  • Concerns regarding the cost and time involved for families visiting prisoners living at a distance.
  • Reductions in overall staffing provision due to detached duties and escorts, despite the prison being deemed 'well staffed'.
  • Inconsistent compliance with Body Worn Video Camera (BWVC) use, affecting operational accountability.
  • Significant risks from illicit items, especially drugs and drones, exacerbated by the prison's geography and evolving supply methods.
  • Prison policies on receiving books from family/friends and handling Rule 39 legal mail are not in line with national policy.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Leeds
Published 8 Jul 2026
Self-harm: 748 Assaults: 297 Staff assaults: 155
AI-generated report summary HMP Leeds, a local reception prison, faced significant challenges during the reporting year, including a critically high number of self-inflicted deaths and issues with overcrowded, poorly maintained cells. Staff shortages frequently led to regime curtailment and late prisoner arrivals from courts. Despite these concerns, there was a positive reduction in self-harm incidents and illicit item finds, and the IMB commended the dedication of healthcare, education, and CSU staff, especially in managing complex needs.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The critically high number of self-inflicted deaths in custody, which continued to rise year-on-year.
  • Late arrival of prison transport leading to prisoner agitation and disruption, affecting medical assessments for new arrivals.
  • Unacceptable conditions of shared, cramped cells with limited privacy, poor temperature regulation, and recurrent defects with toilets.
  • Lack of clarity and slow progress for IPP prisoners and delays in transferring prisoners with severe mental health issues to appropriate NHS secure facilities.
  • The persistent presence of illicit substances, despite reduction efforts.
  • Frequent curtailment of the normal regime due to staff shortages, reducing time out of cells and increasing poor behaviour.
  • A high percentage (32%) of prisoners being released without suitable accommodation, increasing risk of reoffending.
  • A 40% cut in the education budget and difficulties ensuring prisoners attend classes due to escort pressures.
  • A need for increased funding to address the backlog in necessary maintenance.
  • Staff not always following correct ACCT procedures, particularly in the CSU.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Hollesley Bay
Published 30 Jun 2026
Assaults: 11
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Hollesley Bay generally provides humane treatment and purposeful activity, with strong safety measures and integrated healthcare. Key concerns include significant cuts to education budgets, persistent ROTL delays, and a notable rise in property-related complaints. The Board also highlights the need for investment in facilities, improved Governor visibility, and the impact of increasing key compromises.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Government cuts to education and lack of meaningful progression for short-term prisoners.
  • Persistent ROTL delays and limited external employment opportunities (e.g. Sizewell C).
  • Significant rise in prisoner property complaints, particularly during inter-prison transfers.
  • Inadequate capital investment for chaplaincy facilities and issues with healthcare appointment management (DNAs).
  • Concerns about reduced Governor visibility and potential negative impacts of staff re-profiling.
  • Worrying increase in key compromises affecting site security.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Ranby
Published 26 Jun 2026
Self-harm: 522 Assaults: 268 Staff assaults: 100
AI-generated report summary HMP Ranby, a Category C training prison, continues to face significant challenges with overcrowding, high levels of illicit drugs, and the inappropriate holding of mentally unwell prisoners in segregation due to transfer delays. While the Board commended staff professionalism and improvements in the complaints system, concerns remain regarding staff shortages, inexperience, and a lack of meaningful activity for prisoners. Property loss and canteen issues also persist, highlighting systemic problems impacting prisoner welfare and morale.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The prison remains seriously overcrowded, with ongoing cell sharing and delays in building new accommodation.
  • High levels of illicit drugs and associated violence undermine safety, with prisoners increasingly seeking sanctuary in segregation.
  • Long waiting times for mental health transfers result in vulnerable prisoners being inappropriately held in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU).
  • Significant staffing shortfalls, high turnover, and inexperience among staff negatively impact prisoner support and safety.
  • Insufficient meaningful education and work opportunities, particularly for short-term prisoners, hinder rehabilitation and progression.
  • Persistent issues include loss of prisoner property during transfers, problems with canteen orders and refunds, and a lack of availability of complaint forms on house blocks.
  • Concerns about the robustness of the role reconciliation process.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Heathrow immigration removal centre
Published 19 Jun 2026 · 1,448 prisoners
Self-harm: 246 Assaults: 210 Staff assaults: 114
AI-generated report summary The IMB report for Heathrow IRC highlights significant challenges in safety, infrastructure, and detainee welfare for 2024. While some positive aspects such as staff dedication and activity provision are noted, there are major concerns regarding increased violence and self-harm, rundown facilities, and healthcare staff shortages. The Board urges significant investment in the estate and improved communication and pathways for detainees, especially those with mental health needs or awaiting release.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Increased incidents of violence, assaults on staff, and self-harm, alongside a rise in illicit items and 'throw-overs'.
  • The rundown state of the core infrastructure, leading to frequent loss of essential services (power, water, communications), requires significant investment.
  • Misuse of Rules 40 and 42 for prolonged periods or for individuals with mental health needs, rather than as a last resort.
  • Ongoing healthcare staff shortages, particularly for mental health nurses, impacting care and leading to missed hospital appointments.
  • Prolonged detention of individuals without a realistic prospect of timely removal, including significant waits for bail accommodation.
  • Ineffective complaint investigation processes and lack of trust in the system for both contractor and Home Office complaints.
  • Limited variety, quantity, and quality of food contributing to detainee anxiety and dissatisfaction.
  • Poor communication from the Detention Engagement Team (DET), Home Office, and Probation Service, causing frustration and exacerbating mental health issues.
Report year 2024 IRC Concerns
Leicester
Published 18 Jun 2026 · 325 prisoners
Self-harm: 314 Assaults: 134 Staff assaults: 76
AI-generated report summary HMP Leicester, a busy local prison for adult men, continues to be well-led despite significant challenges from ageing infrastructure and a high prisoner turnover. While there have been welcome reductions in self-harm and violence, and no deaths in custody, key concerns persist regarding prisoner resettlement, accessible facilities, reduced purposeful activity due to funding cuts, and inadequate confidential interview spaces. Staffing levels are generally good, but key worker sessions have fallen, and support for foreign national prisoners and those with disabilities needs improvement.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • 38% of men released had no accommodation, and CAS 3 supported accommodation is at full capacity.
  • Lack of accessible shower facilities for wheelchair users and a broken lift on the Welford unit.
  • Education budget cuts reduced activity spaces, leading to more men locked up for 22 hours per day.
  • No dedicated, confidential space for initial interviews with new prisoners in reception.
  • Significant reduction in the number of key work sessions delivered, averaging only a third of the target.
  • Foreign national prisoners, especially non-English speakers, feel isolated and receive more incentives scheme warnings due to insufficient interpreting and translation services.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Lewes
Published 17 Jun 2026 · 603 prisoners
Self-harm: 432 Assaults: 207 Staff assaults: 80
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Lewes, a Category B local prison, has reported welcome reductions in self-harm and use of force incidents, alongside an improved regime offering around eight hours out of cell daily. The Board commends improved staff retention, healthcare waiting times for some services, and the work of the chaplaincy and LAMS teams. However, significant concerns persist regarding the widespread availability of illicit drugs, the high number of releases to no fixed abode, delays in mental health transfers, and disproportionate outcomes for young adults and certain ethnic groups in use of force and segregation.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Illicit drugs remain too readily available on the wings, posing significant security threats.
  • Too many prisoners are released to no fixed abode, impacting their wellbeing and the wider community.
  • The prison is frequently required to accept prisoners arriving late in the evening, causing safety risks and stress for both prisoners and staff.
  • Practice regarding ACCT processes for at-risk prisoners needs to be strengthened, as they are not always managed or recorded in a timely manner.
  • Prisoners with significant mental health needs continue to face long delays for transfers to secure facilities, leading to inappropriate use of the CSU for their constant supervision.
  • There is a disproportionate representation of young adults and prisoners from Caribbean, African, other Black, and Muslim backgrounds in use of force incidents and segregation.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Kent Coast Short Term Holding Facilities (STHF)
Published 16 Jun 2026
Self-harm: 0 Assaults: 0 Staff assaults: 0
AI-generated report summary The IMB report for Kent Coast STHF highlights that while staff are generally empathetic and security has improved, several key concerns persist. These include a lack of privacy for children during sensitive interviews, insufficient information for detainees about their onward journey, and issues with slow facility repairs and overcrowding at Manston. The Board reiterates recommendations for greater transparency and improved conditions, with some recommendations still unaddressed from the previous year.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Lack of privacy for sensitive interviews with children at KIU, particularly regarding modern slavery, general health, and mental health.
  • Detainees continue to lack clear information about their 'process journey' and next destinations, leading to confusion.
  • Delays in repairs, such as shower issues at KIU, persist due to slow Home Office approval.
  • Overcrowding in Manston marquees frequently results in detainees sleeping on floor mats in very close proximity to strangers.
  • Inadequate recreational facilities and a lack of outside access at WJF and Frontier House, with limited seating in RHR.
  • Concerns about radio communication integrity among Mitie C&C staff following a reported racist incident.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Low Newton
Published 12 Jun 2026 · 278 prisoners
Self-harm: 1,595 Assaults: 58 Staff assaults: 133
AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Low Newton, a women's prison, has implemented positive changes to its regime and culture, with strong commendations from HMIP. However, the reporting year saw a significant rise in self-harm, violence, and use of force, alongside persistent concerns regarding the transport of women to the prison and the inappropriate placement of severely mentally unwell individuals in a custodial environment. The Board noted good staff professionalism and effective rehabilitation programmes, but highlighted ongoing challenges with staffing shortages and resettlement support.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The Board is concerned about the significant rise in self-harm, violence and use of force over the reporting year.
  • Ongoing issues with unclean conditions in the care and separation unit (CSU).
  • There continue to be ongoing issues with the transport of women to the establishment, including mixed-sex journeys, inadequate toilet/sanitary provision, and lengthy journeys.
  • For several years, the Board has raised concerns about the number of severely mentally unwell women sent to prison who require specialist therapeutic care in secure hospital settings.
  • Concerns about the number of women who are released without accommodation to go to.
  • A major gas leak resulted in the loss of heating and hot water, highlighting a wider establishment issue.
  • Lack of available storage space has impacted access to the Hive, an incentivised association space.
  • Ongoing staff shortages continue to affect the regime, limiting opportunities for staff-prisoner relationships and potentially impacting mental health.
  • Waiting times for mental health transfers to secure hospital settings have been lengthy.
  • Concerns about the necessary resources available in the community to support women released with severe issues or in distress, particularly regarding accommodation.
  • Courts sentencing women to short sentences and early release schemes either prevent rehabilitation work from starting or disrupt ongoing programmes.
  • Access to the Listener service has not always been available.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
London short term holding facilities (STHF)
Published 11 Jun 2026
AI-generated report summary This report for London STHFs highlights that while holding rooms generally provide a safe environment and inductions are mostly high quality, significant issues persist. Key concerns include chronic understaffing of Border Force leading to long waits, inadequate provisions for extended stays in rooms not designed for them, and a persistent lack of access to personal medication at some facilities. The Board also notes issues with translation services and the absence of direct internet access for detainees.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Insufficient Border Force officers causing extended waiting times in CWAs and holding rooms.
  • Continued lack of access to personal medication for detainees at London City Airport and Eaton House.
  • Holding rooms, unequipped for long stays, frequently house detainees for over 24 hours without adequate mattresses or temperature control.
  • Inconsistent provision of translation services (The Big Word) and failure to offer translators to all non-English speakers.
  • Lack of direct Wi-Fi/internet access for detainees, limiting access to information and communication.
  • Safety concerns regarding minors in CWAs and unsuitable furniture in London City Airport's family room.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Liverpool
Published 11 Jun 2026
AI-generated report summary HMP Liverpool continued its transition to a Category B reception prison in 2025, facing significant challenges from its 170-year-old infrastructure and high prisoner churn. While some positive developments were noted in reducing self-harm and drug incidents, and healthcare provision saw improvements, concerns persisted regarding the condition of the estate, staffing resilience, and access to education and purposeful activity. The Board raised key concerns about maintenance, drug supply, property transfers, and healthcare capacity, issuing recommendations to the Minister, Prison Service, and Governor.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • The dilapidated state of the 170-year-old prison infrastructure and ineffective responsive repairs system.
  • The continued high supply of illegal drugs posing significant risks to prisoners and staff.
  • Persistent and excessive complaints regarding prisoner property transfers, particularly from HMP Altcourse.
  • Challenges in healthcare access, including missed hospital appointments, internal escorts, and mental health waiting times.
  • Low education attendance and limited purposeful activity, compounded by budget cuts and high prisoner turnover.
  • High staff sickness rates and their impact on regime delivery and the provision of key worker sessions.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Lindholme
Published 9 Jun 2026 · 1,010 prisoners
AI-generated report summary HMP Lindholme, a Category C male training prison with an operational capacity of 1010, faced persistent challenges in safety during the reporting year, including high levels of self-harm, violence, and the ingress of illicit items, alongside five deaths in custody. The Board noted significant concerns regarding poor living conditions, delayed maintenance, and a decline in key worker engagement. Healthcare experienced strains, particularly with mental health transfers and a lack of complaints oversight. Reduced education and activity opportunities, exacerbated by workshop closures, undermined the prison's training function.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Persistent high levels of violence, self-harm, and the significant challenge of illicit item availability.
  • Poor living conditions, including delayed maintenance, inconsistent heating, unsanitary toilets, recurring bedbug infestations, and the loss of courtesy keys leading to property theft.
  • Significant decline in key worker engagement and staff visibility, affecting prisoner support and the consistent application of basic standards.
  • Healthcare provision under strain, notably long waits for mental health gatekeeping assessments resulting in prolonged segregation stays, and limited oversight for healthcare complaints.
  • Reduced access to education and purposeful activity due to funding cuts, frequent class closures, and the long-term closure of workshops, undermining the prison’s training function.
  • A lack of prisoner trust in the complaints process and persistent issues with lost property during transfers and internal movements.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
High Down
Published 4 Jun 2026 · 1,133 prisoners
Self-harm: 575 Assaults: 162 Staff assaults: 82
AI-generated report summary HMP High Down, a Category C training and resettlement prison, housed 1133 prisoners at year-end, 135 above its CNA. The reporting year saw improvements in key work and education attendance, but significant concerns persist regarding the inadequate provision of social care, the holding of acutely mentally unwell prisoners in segregation, and delays in mental health transfers. Despite a decrease in self-harm incidents and assaults, issues with prisoner safety, illicit items, and communication remain prominent.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Inadequate social care provision, particularly for older and vulnerable prisoners, leaving them at risk during evenings and weekends.
  • The continued holding of acutely mentally unwell prisoners in the CSRU due to a lack of suitable alternative placements and slow transfer times to secure mental hospitals.
  • Significant pressures on the Offender Management Unit due to a shortage of prison probation staff, hindering prisoner progression.
  • Regime restrictions, including full-time workers being denied access to basic activities after work and the perception of the prison operating as Category B.
  • Persistent issues with property management, particularly items going missing during transfers to the CSRU.
  • Ongoing concerns about prisoner safety, including the prevalence of illicit items, despite some positive trends in assaults and self-harm.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Gartree
Published 3 Jun 2026 · 664 prisoners
Self-harm: 457 Assaults: 71 Staff assaults: 68
AI-generated report summary HMP Gartree faced significant challenges in the past year, marked by a notable increase in violence, self-harm incidents, and deaths in custody. The prison continues to grapple with a deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate healthcare provision, and the persistent presence of illicit items. Despite some positive developments such as efforts to reintegrate self-isolating prisoners and support for family ties, significant concerns persist regarding the overall safety, regime delivery, and the progression opportunities for its long-term and IPP prisoner population.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Growing levels of violence and a perception that the prison is unsafe.
  • Prevalence of illicit items (drugs, mobile phones, weapons).
  • Inadequate healthcare services, particularly mental health, and staffing issues.
  • Deteriorating fabric and poor infrastructure, including heating, leaking roofs, and showers.
  • Limited access to purposeful activities, cutbacks to education provision, and high levels of segregation/wing restrictions.
  • High numbers and lack of progression for IPP prisoners, and inadequate support for older/disabled prisoners.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Isle of Wight
Published 2 Jun 2026 · 945 prisoners
Self-harm: 1,068 Assaults: 151 Staff assaults: 114
AI-generated report summary HMP Isle of Wight, a Category B training prison, faced chronic staff shortages during 2025, resulting in significant regime disruption, frequent lock-ups, and impacts on purposeful activity. While overall violence stabilised, its severity and self-harm incidents increased. The Board noted good physical healthcare and education provision, but raised concerns about stretched mental health services, persistent substance misuse, and the ongoing delays in transfers to secure hospitals. Key management oversight meetings were often missed due to staffing pressures, and the Board highlighted a lack of Governor autonomy in recruitment and the need for urgent infrastructure and security gate enhancements.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Transfers to secure hospital facilities are still taking much longer than the 28-day transfer target, a concern raised in previous reports.
  • Chronic staffing shortages, exacerbated by a lack of Governor autonomy in recruitment and budget, lead to frequent regime disruption and adversely affect all aspects of prisoner life.
  • The segregation unit remains regularly full, with key oversight meetings (SMARG) not taking place due to staff absences.
  • The gate security enhancement has not been rectified, posing a significant risk for drug ingress and potential fatalities.
  • Infrastructure issues across the estate (hydraulic gates, workshops, roofs, cameras) are extreme and require substantial capital investment.
  • Current provision of accredited rehabilitation programmes, particularly the Healthy Sex Programme for PCoSOs, is inadequate and not meeting prisoners' needs.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
South and West short term holding facilities
Published 29 May 2026
Staff assaults: 1
AI-generated report summary The South and West STHF Board was newly formed in January 2023. Members made a total of 139 monitoring visits (often in pairs) between 1 February 2025 and 31 January 2026. BF provided a monthly data sheet listing all people detained in the STHF. Bristol was the busiest site, with 129 detentions for longer than two hours, and Poole the quietest, with only seven detained individuals.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • We were concerned that some people at Bristol and Cardiff were held for long periods in the CWA, without being transferred to the more comfortable and private STHF.
  • For a second year we were concerned that detained people could not have access to prescribed medication whilst in the STHF. Also, BF officers had inadequate access to health-related support and advice.
  • We were again concerned about BF failing to inform us of the use of force either within the agreed timescales or in one case not at all.
  • We questioned definitions of vulnerability because of the release of one detained person, a lone woman with no money, no accommodation and limited English.
  • We remain concerned that decisions about access to medication and nicotine replacement have taken over 12 months.
  • Although few in number, we were concerned about the additional time in detention, waiting for MITIE Care and Custody to arrive to transfer a detained person.
Report year 2026 PRISON Concerns
Charter Flight Monitoring Team
Published 28 May 2026
AI-generated report summary The Charter Flight Monitoring Team (CFMT) monitors and reports on the conditions for, and treatment of, people detained under immigration powers who are removed from the UK on charter flights. In 2025, the CFMT monitored operations to Albania, Romania, Vietnam, India, Pakistan and France. A significant proportion of individuals subjected to enforced removals are recognised as highly vulnerable.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • For the last two years, the CFMT’s reports have highlighted HOIE’s removal of people with known vulnerabilities.
  • The CFMT observed 28 instances of UoF and noted concerns around inadequate de-escalation.
  • Once again, as in previous years, we report that some returnees have spent excessive time on board coaches or ‘chase’ vehicles.
  • Significant concerns were raised throughout the reporting year about inadequate interpretation.
  • The numerous documents for each charter flight and returnee do not always make the potential vulnerabilities of individuals clear, raising concerns that escorts may not be aware that those they are looking after may have specific medical or mental health needs.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Exeter
Published 27 May 2026
AI-generated report summary HMP Exeter is an all-male and young offender category B reception prison (Local) with a small resettlement function. At the end of the reporting year, its operational capacity remains at 310. During the year there were four deaths in custody.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Delays in the CCTV project and the continued closure of A wing impact negatively on the safety and security of prisoners and staff
  • A rise in the number of illicit items entering the prison which causes intermittent instability
  • An increased number of prisoners self-isolating, linked to the high number of deaths in custody, but with some improvements in supporting their needs
  • Poor conditions in D wing – too hot in summer, damp and mould in winter
  • Lack of permanent, suitable clinical and peer review space throughout 2025
  • Reduced variety and choice in the provision of educational courses
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Deerbolt
Published 22 May 2026 · 470 prisoners
AI-generated report summary The IMB at Deerbolt acknowledges the significant and ongoing challenges facing the Prison Service. The IMB remains concerned about the lack of meaningful rehabilitation at a time when drugs are widespread and the prison population is increasing and shifting towards an older demographic with different and often more complex needs. Overall, the IMB continues to be impressed by the high calibre of many officers in the establishment.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Levels of violence remained high linked to the prevalence of drugs, debt-related violence and gang activity.
  • Current counter-drone measures are not fit for purpose.
  • Education courses seem to be geared towards low-ability prisoners.
  • Limited contact with offender managers due to high case-loads.
  • Optician waiting times remain unacceptable.
  • A move to half-day activity has negatively affected outcomes for the establishment.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Long Lartin
Published 21 May 2026
Self-harm: 514 Staff assaults: 113
AI-generated report summary There was a promising start to the year with sufficient staff resources to provide a relatively stable regime, which is so important to prisoners. However by mid-year the prison was experiencing staff recruitment and retention problems. Well intentioned efforts to improve the prison and make Long Lartin a more humane and decent living environment for prisoners, are hampered by bureaucracy.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Drones: incursions continue to deliver dangerous illicit items into the prison.
  • Security systems: much of the existing security systems technology is obsolete and unserviceable, increasing the vulnerability of prisoners and staff.
  • Unsatisfactory management of infrastructure and maintenance: the Board remains concerned that the Minister’s department is not robustly managing the contract with Amey plc.
  • Lack of in-cell sanitation on four wings.
  • Officer shortages.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Grendon
Published 20 May 2026 · 170 prisoners
Self-harm: 17 Assaults: 5 Staff assaults: 2
AI-generated report summary HMP Grendon is a category B prison and therapeutic community. Membership of the IMB Board remains well below capacity, limiting depth of monitoring and reporting. In the Board’s view, the prison continues to operate within a generally safe environment.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Outcomes for men as a result of frequent plumbing and sanitation issues across the wings have been poor.
  • Rat infestation continues to be a problem.
  • Handling of prisoners’ property and canteen continues to generate complaints.
  • The frequent cancellation of transfers for prisoners from HMP Grendon to their receiving prison causes considerable tension.
  • Staff vacancies, particularly Band 4 Officers have been an issue.
  • Healthcare does not operate a 24 hour service in Grendon.
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns
Springhill
Published 20 May 2026
Self-harm: 4 Assaults: 12 Staff assaults: 1
AI-generated report summary HMP Springhill is an open establishment (category D) that focuses on the rehabilitation and resettlement of prisoners. There has been a reduction in education provision. Instances of self-harm, violence, assaults, and the use of force remain at low levels.
AI-generated summary of key concerns
  • Can the minister offer reassurance that sufficient funding will be available to address the necessary requirements to offer much improved accommodation and associated services at HMP Springhill?
  • Why has there been a 30% reduction in real terms to the education provision across Springhill as this support is a key part of prisoners’ rehabilitation and preparation for employment when released?
  • Property related issues experienced at Springhill create unnecessary anxiety and generate numerous complaints from prisoners. What priority is the Prison Service giving to finding effective solutions for the continued issues with prisoners’ personal property and adherence to the National Policy Framework?
Report year 2025 PRISON Concerns

Establishment types

Across this source collection
Read the chart values
IMB reports by establishment type
Establishment typeReports
Prison789
IRC22

Reports by year

Across this source collection
Read the chart values
IMB reports by year
YearReports
2020129
2021126
2022132
2023134
2024133
2025128
202629

Key findings

Patterns across the corpus

99% of IMB reports flag key concerns. Independent monitors cover 171 establishments across prisons, immigration removal centres and secure training centres.