IMB Annual Reports

Bure

Published 25 Nov 2020 · 586 prisoners

Self-harm: 347 Assaults: 37

AI-generated report summary HMP Bure, a Category C prison, maintained high prisoner and staff morale during the COVID-19 pandemic despite extensive lockdowns. While progress was noted in property management, healthcare staffing, and inmate relationships, significant concerns persist regarding the estate, particularly ventilation and cramped cell conditions in Unit 7. Delays in psychology reports and a lack of palliative care facilities were identified as critical issues, alongside ongoing staffing shortages in the Offender Management Unit.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Urgent work is required on the ventilation system in residences 1-6 to improve air quality, especially with extended lockdowns.
There are significant delays in psychology reports, impacting offending behaviour programmes and prisoner progression.
The continued presence of double bunks in Unit 7 cells, despite being single occupancy, results in cramped and unacceptable conditions.
The provision of pre-release resettlement facilities for men convicted of sexual offences needs ongoing review.
There is a lack of special accommodation and resources for palliative care and better conditions for disabled prisoners.
The Offender Management Unit faces significant staffing shortages, impacting resettlement planning.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Altcourse

Published 12 Nov 2020 · 1,130 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Altcourse maintained safety and humane treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, with low levels of self-harm and violence. Staff and prisoner morale remained high due to positive staff attitudes and good communication, despite severe regime restrictions. Key concerns include the challenges of housing an aging prison population, delays in mental health transfers, and persistent issues with prisoner property and food quality.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The increasing age profile of prisoners requires more age-appropriate accommodation and specialised healthcare, but implementation of the prison's strategy is hampered by finite finance and lack of an overarching national strategy.
The mixed healthcare inpatient facility creates an uneasy environment due to differing needs of physical and mental health patients, compounded by long delays in transferring mental health patients to secure units.
Delays in scheduling Coroner inquests cause anxiety for staff, witnesses, and families.
Mislaid personal property during inter-prison transfers remains a persistent national problem, despite being a subject of discussion.
Many men convicted of sexual offences continue to be unable to access treatment programmes, as they are considered unfit for transfer to appropriate prisons.
Despite recent improvements, food quality lacks consistency, and timely maintenance of kitchen equipment (designed for 750 prisoners, current capacity 1164) remains a concern.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

New Hall

Published 11 Nov 2020 · 388 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI New Hall received a generally positive assessment from the IMB for the reporting year ending February 2020, with prisoners treated fairly and humanely. The report highlighted improvements such as reduced self-harm, the introduction of in-cell telephony, and an outstanding education success rate of 96.69%. Key concerns, however, included long waits for mental health transfers, insufficient staffing and resources for vulnerable prisoners, and persistent issues with property transfer and resettlement accommodation.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Long waiting periods for residents with severe mental health problems to transfer to appropriate external accommodation.
Insufficient staffing levels and resources to consistently deliver healthcare, particularly on units housing complex women like Holly House.
Buildings and fabric of the prison are at risk of falling below current maintenance levels, with lengthy delays in repairing faulty kitchen equipment.
Inadequate process to ensure prisoners and their property are not separated during transfers, compounded by problematic transportation leading to late arrivals and delayed medical care.
Lack of consistent engagement with Equalities groups due to staff deployment issues and the DIRF Scrutiny Panel not meeting regularly.
The healthcare complaints process requires significant improvement, especially regarding timely feedback on written concerns.
Budgetary issues and regime restrictions frequently lead to cancelled education classes and limited purposeful activity, resulting in some residents remaining on wings.
Untimely service from Home Office Immigration Enforcement (HOIE) causes uncertainty in release planning and can lead to non-UK nationals being held beyond their release date.
Limited and difficult-to-find accommodation for released prisoners, particularly for repeat offenders.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Stocken

Published 10 Nov 2020 · 1,038 prisoners

Self-harm: 387 Assaults: 132 Staff assaults: 79

AI-generated report summary HMP Stocken, a Category C training prison, has expanded its population to 1038 with an operational capacity of 1044. The IMB judges the prison to be relatively safe and humane, with excellent education and training. However, key concerns include a critical shortage of secure mental health facilities and Category D places, issues with prisoner transfers, and repeated problems with adjudication paperwork. The Board commends improvements in maintenance, a significant reduction in drug availability, and the successful implementation of the keyworker scheme, while highlighting the need for better funding and management oversight in several areas.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Pressing need for increased capacity in secure mental health facilities and Category D (Open) prisons.
Need to increase capacity in all categories in London and the South East due to too many prisoners being far from home.
In-cell telephony should be funded for all Category C prisoners.
More active and prompt allocation of re-categorised prisoners to appropriate locations is needed, as movement is often at the whim of officials.
Funds should be redirected from prisons reducing resettlement preparation to prisons like Stocken which increasingly fulfill this role without adequate funding.
Frequent long delays in financial approval for repairs and refurbishments are unacceptable, requiring closer monitoring of external contractors.
Improve prisoners' attendance and punctuality at workshops and education sites.
Adjudications continue to cause concern, with too many ending in dismissal for avoidable technical reasons (a repeated issue).
Paperwork for Segregation reviews (Rule 45s) needs to be accurate and available in good time to facilitate constructive dialogue.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Buckley Hall

Published 4 Nov 2020

Self-harm: 105 Assaults: 54 Staff assaults: 20

AI-generated report summary HMP Buckley Hall, a Category C training prison with an operational capacity of 459, received positive HMIP inspection results and was ranked highly among UK prisons. Staff efforts to keep prisoners safe during the COVID-19 lockdown were commended, with minimal positive cases. Key concerns included high rates of cancelled external medical appointments, under-completion of key worker sessions due to staffing pressures, and the lack of in-cell telephones. The regime was significantly restricted during lockdown, causing boredom, though out-of-cell time increased by the reporting year's end.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Inconsistent and disrupted regime, including inaccurate roll checks, delays in daily unlock, and limited out-of-cell time during lockdown, impacting access to activities and services.
Significant issues with prisoner property transfers, particularly for long-serving prisoners, leading to frustration and IMB applications.
High rates of cancelled outside medical appointments (up to 31%) due to insufficient escort staff, forcing difficult prioritisation decisions for healthcare.
Pressure on and under-completion of key work sessions due to staff redeployment, sickness, and vacancies, undermining this vital support.
Staffing concerns in the security department and for key workers, impacting operational effectiveness and prisoner support.
Continued lack of in-cell telephones, hindering communication with families, legal representatives, and support teams, especially for vulnerable prisoners.
Unused wing healthcare rooms due to lack of electricity and separate locks, and inadequate dining facilities on wings.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Lancaster Farms

Published 3 Nov 2020 · 560 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Lancaster Farms is largely well-managed, but the Board highlights several areas of concern. Key issues include rising self-harm and violent incidents, inadequate facilities and activities for segregated prisoners, and a shortage of purposeful activity places. While some improvements in healthcare and education were noted, the Board remains concerned about property transfers, accommodation standards, and resettlement provisions.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Urgent consideration is needed for the increasing number of self-harm incidents, particularly those associated with individuals facing mental health difficulties.
The bleak and untidy condition of CSU exercise yards and the lack of in-cell work/education within the CSU are concerning.
A shortage of wheelchairs unfairly affects prisoners with reduced mobility, limiting access to activities.
The policy of reclassifying individual isolating prisoners as 'refusers' if they do not identify threats needs urgent review.
The use of the First Night Unit to accommodate vulnerable and disruptive prisoners alongside first-nighters raises doubts about humane treatment.
Continued difficulties with the transfer and loss of prisoners' property between establishments remain a significant issue.
The continued use of double cells with unscreened toilets is inconsistent with humane treatment.
There was a significant deterioration in the timeliness of complaints handling, raising concerns about resource allocation.
The number of reported violent incidents (prisoner-on-prisoner assaults and assaults on staff) increased significantly.
The decline in trained Listeners to just two and the lack of access to Samaritans telephones at night are serious concerns.
There is a lack of provision for educational courses beyond levels 1 and 2.
Overall, there are not enough work and education places available, largely due to budget constraints.
Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) is rarely used, despite the prison's designation as a resettlement prison.
There is a regrettable lack of ICT provision in learning areas and assistance with ICT-based applications for housing benefit and job searches.
The absence of social care staff and serious concerns regarding the provision of palliative care are noted.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Ashfield

Published 28 Oct 2020 · 400 prisoners

Self-harm: 68 Assaults: 4 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP Ashfield continues to be a well-run Category C prison for men serving sentences for sexual offences, known for its safe environment and humane treatment. Despite the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on daily regime and programme delivery, staff were highly commended for their support and resilience. Key concerns include the persistent lack of suitable accommodation for release, issues with property management from other establishments, and the growing backlog for intervention programmes due to COVID-19 restrictions, which could hinder prisoner progression and parole.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Prisoners’ progression to resettlement, particularly the lack of suitable accommodation, including approved premises.
Adverse impact on prisoners' wellbeing if HMPPS COVID-19 restrictions continue for a prolonged period.
Significant impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the delivery of intervention programmes, potentially affecting parole and release.
Missing property in former establishments continues to be a top cause for complaint.
Incomplete or inappropriate contact arrangements for prisoners transferring in, which has worsened.
Progression wing plans not advancing sufficiently.
Lack of diabetic items available from the prison shop.
Irregular attendance of nominated senior managers at equality and diversity forums.
Reduction in frequency and lack of in-depth analysis at diversity and equality action team meetings.
Limited workshops (e.g., on approved premises, open prisons) compared to previous years.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Bullingdon

Published 27 Oct 2020 · 1,057 prisoners

Self-harm: 599 Assaults: 287 Staff assaults: 101

AI-generated report summary HMP Bullingdon, a local and resettlement prison, experienced high overcrowding and staffing challenges, with a significant proportion of inexperienced officers. While physical health services were generally good and some educational outcomes improved, violence and drug finds remained high, and mental health provision, particularly counselling, was inadequate. The COVID-19 pandemic severely restricted the regime, leading to prolonged cell confinement, but the prison successfully prevented widespread infection. Persistent issues include inadequate reception facilities for vulnerable prisoners, property loss, and maintenance backlogs, while resettlement outcomes remain patchy.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

High levels of violence and increased drug and weapon finds, showing no consistent sign of being brought under control.
Chronic overcrowding, with many prisoners sharing single cells, impacting humane treatment and communal facilities.
Inadequate and persistent failure to provide proper holding cell facilities for vulnerable prisoners (e.g., sex offenders) in Reception (6th year of reporting).
Concerns about the effectiveness and consistency of ACCT procedures and the proper assessment of self-harm/suicide risks, with PPO identifying failings in several self-inflicted deaths.
A lack of experienced staff due to past cuts and attrition, impacting safety, de-escalation, staff retention, and training.
Systemic loss and damage of prisoners' property during transfers and within the prison (3rd year of reporting).
Insufficient resources and backlog in maintenance issues for the prison estate.
Limited and unfair provision for older prisoners, with some remaining in healthcare due to unsuitable social care accommodation elsewhere.
Mental healthcare needs require more resources, and a significant gap exists in counselling services due to a lack of volunteers.
Patchy progress towards successful resettlement, with many prisoners leaving without stable accommodation or employment, and a lack of individual guidance for education/work.
Disruption to education (ESOL) and purposeful activity during lockdown, and challenges in fully implementing OMiC/Key Worker model with sustainable caseloads.
Concerns regarding the prison's ability to eliminate discrimination.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Aylesbury

Published 23 Oct 2020 · 209 prisoners

Self-harm: 197 Assaults: 278 Staff assaults: 4

AI-generated report summary Aylesbury YOI, operating with a reduced population of 209 due to special measures, successfully improved its safety and operational performance, leading to the withdrawal of its special measures status. Despite positive developments like improved staff-prisoner relationships and infrastructure upgrades, significant concerns persist regarding the amount of time prisoners spend locked in cells, the quality of purposeful activity, and ongoing staffing and estate issues. The report also highlights challenges in addressing equality and diversity, and the impact of long segregation stays on young prisoners' wellbeing.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Many young offenders remain locked in cells daily, with only 64% out of cell on weekdays, and work/education options are unexciting and poorly accredited.
A significant number of prisoners report feeling unsafe, particularly on their first night, and gang culture drives violence.
Prisoners, especially those awaiting transfer, spend unacceptably long periods (up to three months) in segregation, impacting their wellbeing.
Staff recruitment and retention remain problematic due to local housing costs, low wages, lengthy clearance processes, and high dropout rates.
Equality and diversity work was noted as being in disarray by HMIP, with disproportionate use of force and segregation for Black and Muslim prisoners, and a lack of ESOL tuition for foreign nationals.
Refurbishment of vacant wings was significantly delayed, and estate deficiencies, such as unserviceable kitchen equipment and inadequate exercise yards, persist.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Thameside

Published 22 Oct 2020

Self-harm: 482 Assaults: 165 Staff assaults: 128

AI-generated report summary HMP Thameside, a Category B/C local prison, faced challenges including high population density and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during the reporting year ending June 2020. The Board highlighted excellent staff cooperation in controlling the virus and positive aspects like strong faith support and a good library. However, significant concerns remain regarding the inhumane regime of 23-hour cell confinement, the lengthy waits for mental health transfers, recurring issues with facilities and property management, high levels of self-harm and everyday violence, and issues with staff complaints and engagement with educational activities.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Many prisoners continue to face excessive hours locked in their cells (up to 23 hours a day), inflicting mental and physical damage.
There is an inhumane wait for secure outside hospital beds for severely mentally ill prisoners, creating bed-blocking in the inpatient unit.
The pace of relaxing the prison regime set by HMPPS is too slow, failing to balance caution with a return to humane conditions.
There is a concerning increase in incidents of violence, self-harm, and use of force in the summer of 2020.
Inadequate management and application of systems and procedures lead to routine unfairness, including casual attitudes towards property, repeated gym cancellations, and endemic facilities failures (in-cell CMS, lifts, virtual campus system).
The Board faces difficulties in getting prompt and reliable responses from prison managers when raising concerns on behalf of prisoners, and the prison's handling and recording of complaints are problematic.
Investigations into prisoner allegations against staff require an overhaul, with concerns about unreasonable delays and lack of meaningful conclusions.
Levels of 'everyday' prisoner-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-staff violence remain too high, despite a decline in serious assaults.
There is a stubbornly high level of non-attendance at healthcare appointments, and concerns regarding the quality of nursing interactions in the CSU.
The education provider made minimal effort to support learners during lockdown, especially for distance learning, and the virtual campus system remains inadequate.
Drugs continue to find their way into cells, contributing to violence, bullying, and debt.
There is a chronic lack of suitable accommodation and difficulty in securing employment for prisoners upon release.
The Board is concerned by the continuing loss of experienced custodial staff and a current staffing shortfall.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Birmingham

Published 20 Oct 2020 · 948 prisoners

Assaults: 394 Staff assaults: 55

AI-generated report summary HMP Birmingham has demonstrated significant improvements in safety, staff-prisoner relationships, and living conditions following an urgent notification in 2018. The Board commended the prison's effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw reduced violence and enhanced communication, though it also led to a severely restricted regime and mental health challenges. Key concerns include prolonged segregation for mentally unwell prisoners, persistent issues with lost property, and the need to sustain positive changes post-pandemic, particularly regarding staffing and purposeful activity.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Lengthy and inappropriate stays in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU) for prisoners with complex mental health needs or challenging behaviours who do not meet criteria for specialist transfer.
The unacceptable frequency of lost or stolen prisoner property, both within the establishment and during transfers, with inadequate compensation and complaint resolution.
Over-representation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) men and young adults (21-24 years) in adjudications.
The negative impact of the severely restricted COVID-19 lockdown regime on prisoners' mental health and time out of cell.
Low attendance rates for education, vocational training, and work, leaving too many activity places unfilled.
Concerns that improved safety achieved during lockdown may be lost if post-COVID staffing levels and staff-prisoner ratios are not revised upwards.
Inadequate regulation of cell temperatures, leading to prisoners being too hot in summer and too cold in winter.
Inappropriate housing of an increasingly ageing prisoner population on standard wings with bunk beds and stairs, and insufficient capacity in the dedicated social care wing.
Delays by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in progressing decisions on charges following violent offences, leading to a failure of the justice system.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Downview

Published 19 Oct 2020 · 287 prisoners

Self-harm: 659 Assaults: 52 Staff assaults: 36

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Downview is considered a safe and humane prison where healthcare needs are largely met. However, the Board identified significant challenges including an unsatisfactory induction process, unsuitable long-term segregation for complex cases, and persistent issues with London weighting affecting staff recruitment. Key working remains unimplemented, and both purposeful activity and resettlement efforts are hampered by short sentences and difficulties accessing performance data from service providers like Weston College and the CRC.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The induction process remains unsatisfactory, with new arrivals on C wing risking intimidation and a lack of formal induction materials, particularly for foreign nationals.
Segregation is unsuitable for long-term rehabilitation, especially for a specific prisoner with brain trauma requiring national-level attention for transfer.
London weighting issues persist, negatively impacting recruitment and retention in the education department.
Implementation and monitoring of family engagement recommendations from the Farmer Review are half-hearted, with no data collected on dependent children of prisoners.
Key working has not been implemented in the women's estate, including Downview, despite the resolution of a national dispute.
Heating and electrical supplies for accommodation blocks are unreliable and require sufficient funding for upgrades.
Concerns remain regarding the visibility of education success rates, engagement, and attendance data from Weston College.
The number of prisoners on working Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) dropped significantly, and a meaningful program is needed.
Significant staffing shortages in the offender management unit lead to delays in prisoner responses.
The physical conditions and exercise yard on the segregation unit are far from ideal.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Wealstun

Published 15 Oct 2020 · 795 prisoners

AI-generated report summary The reporting year at HMP Wealstun was characterized by three distinct periods: improvements prior to an HMIP inspection, subsequent regime curtailments due to financial pressures, and the COVID-19 lockdown. While the prison generally treated prisoners fairly and humanely and healthcare provision was good, the pervasive availability of drugs significantly impacted safety, leading to violence and self-harm. Staffing shortages caused frequent regime restrictions, limiting purposeful activity, and raised concerns about key worker implementation and PAVA training compliance. The Board highlighted a number of ongoing issues, including inadequate resources for equality and diversity, and challenges in managing IPP prisoners and transfers.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The pervasive availability of drugs throughout the year undermines safety, leading to debt, bullying, violence, and self-harm.
Inconsistent standards in the completion and control of ACCT documents, particularly in the early part of the year.
Variability in the management of segregated prisoners due to unstable staffing, resulting in longer stays in the unit.
A significant number of adjudications were not proceeded with or dismissed due to a lack of evidence or available witnesses.
Insufficient staffing and resources allocated to equality and diversity, a persistent issue.
Frequent regime curtailments driven by staffing shortages and financial pressures, limiting purposeful activity and time out of cell.
A large proportion of officers were 'out of ticket' for PAVA (incapacitant spray) due to a lack of prioritized refresher training.
Concerns about the suitability of placing IPP and life-sentenced prisoners at Wealstun given inadequate programmes and management processes.
Delays in transferring recategorised prisoners to category D open prison places due to insufficient capacity across the estate.
Care UK's lack of a formal process for timely responses to prisoner healthcare complaints.
Issues with wing staff not consistently collecting prisoners' post from the post room, causing delays in important communications.
A legacy of OASys assessment backlogs and a lack of regular updates, impacting prisoners' progression and parole eligibility.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Wetherby

Published 14 Oct 2020 · 197 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMYOI Wetherby, a YOI for up to 360 young people, held 197 at the end of May 2020, with 33% on remand. While the Board welcomed the new Enhanced Support Unit and improvements to the estate and staff morale, significant concerns persist. These include acute shortages of secure mental health beds leading to indefinite waits for transfers, persistent staffing vacancies in healthcare, and the unacceptable lack of daily exercise and time out of cell for young people. Violence and self-harm remain problematic, alongside issues with restraint techniques and BWC usage.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Lack of secure mental health hospital beds and indefinite waits for transfer for complex YP.
Increasing levels of violence among YP nationally.
Lengthy delays for YP on remand awaiting trial.
Transfers of YP from distant STCs/YOIs to Wetherby, impacting family links and support networks.
Protracted delays for 18+ YP awaiting transfer to the adult estate.
Increasing number of Restricted Status (RS) YP, with provision almost at capacity.
Unacceptable lack of daily exercise and insufficient time out of cell for YP.
Inconsistent delivery and prioritisation of Custody Support Plan (CuSP) sessions.
Misapplication of Managing and Minimising Physical Restraint (MMPR) techniques and failure to use Body Worn Cameras (BWCs) appropriately.
Significant increase in self-harm incidents.
Unacceptable late arrivals of YP to reception, sometimes in the early hours, and the continued use of untrained staff in reception.
Long waiting times for non-urgent dental appointments (6-8 weeks).
High vacancy rates in healthcare (44% primary care, 55% CAMHS), leading to staffing difficulties.
Lack of quarterly meetings for the drug misuse strategy, indicating potential oversight.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Wymott

Published 12 Oct 2020

Self-harm: 511 Assaults: 116 Staff assaults: 38

AI-generated report summary Overall the Board considers that prisoners are relatively safe at Wymott, despite increased self-harm and violence. Significant concerns remain regarding the unacceptable standard of accommodation on some wings, persistent healthcare staffing shortages, and long waits for mental health transfers. The closure of the therapeutic community and issues with prisoner property on transfer are also key areas of worry for the Board.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Increased self-harm and violence, with drugs remaining a key driver of bullying and debt.
Unacceptable standard of accommodation on some wings, with repeated failures in heating, hot water, and sanitation.
Significant underlying problems in healthcare, especially mental healthcare staffing shortages and long waits for secure unit places.
Persistent issues with prisoners' property going missing on transfer between establishments.
Closure of the drug-free therapeutic community during the pandemic, impacting support for prisoners trying to come off drugs.
Regular cancellation of prisoner forums (e.g., healthcare) and inadequate supervision in the library.
The kitchen capacity remains problematic, leading to equipment failure and staff pressure.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Usk and Prescoed

Published 9 Oct 2020

Self-harm: 4

AI-generated report summary HMPs Usk and Prescoed are identified as effective and well-run prisons, providing safe and humane environments with good staff-prisoner relationships, even amidst the initial COVID-19 outbreak. Key concerns include the postponement of the OMiC pilot at Prescoed, a demotivating transfer policy for MCOSO, and slow transfer of prisoner records. The Board also highlights the poor condition of Lester unit, restrictions to the multi-faith room, and the negative impact of the pandemic on education assessments and future employment prospects.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The OMiC pilot for the open estate at Prescoed has been indefinitely postponed, hindering prisoner development.
MCOSO granted Category D status must reside in Usk for three months before moving to Prescoed, a policy seen as perplexing and demotivating.
Prisoner records are often slow in reaching the open estate, causing delays in transition, risk assessment, ROTL planning, and prisoner discontentment.
Lester, a prefabricated unit at Prescoed, remains dreary with unreliable plumbing and drainage, needing complete replacement.
The multi-faith room is now locked and only accessible during services due to property damage, restricting prisoner access.
Further development of social care provision at Usk is on hold due to funding challenges.
The COVID-19 pandemic affected education success rates, with learners unable to complete final assessments.
There is anxiety about the post-COVID-19 economic situation impacting prisoner employment on release.
The absence of an observation process in education evaluation makes it difficult to judge prisoner progress effectively.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Winchester

Published 6 Oct 2020 · 500 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,365

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Winchester made consistent progress in improving performance during a turbulent year, moving from 'serious concern' to 'concern'. The Board commended efforts in operational grip, cleanliness, and staff-prisoner interaction, alongside improvements in self-harm management and a new reception scheme. However, the dilapidated Victorian infrastructure, especially the CSU, posed significant safety and humane treatment challenges, while high rates of violence and issues with healthcare access due to staff shortages and escort availability remained key concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The dilapidated and intrinsically unsafe Victorian building fabric, particularly the Care and Separation Unit (CSU), which remains unfit for purpose and without secured funding for replacement despite repeated promises.
High rates of prisoner-on-prisoner assaults and assaults on staff, reflective of endemic violence in local male prisons.
Insufficient provision of escorts and runners for healthcare appointments, leading to high 'did not attend' (DNA) rates for GP and dental services and compromising medical provision.
Overcrowding, with many cells designed for single occupancy housing two prisoners, leading to cramped conditions and lack of privacy.
Continued issues with drug misuse, including parcels thrown over walls and letters soaked in new psychoactive substances.
Lack of accessible facilities for physically disabled prisoners, including reception, education classrooms, and only one wheelchair-accessible cell.
Lengthy and indefinite detention of an immigration detainee in the CSU, with inadequate support for asylum applications due to language barriers and lack of legal aid.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Woodhill

Published 6 Oct 2020 · 499 prisoners

Self-harm: 637

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Woodhill underwent a significant re-roling during the reporting year to become a Category B training prison for long-sentenced prisoners. While the Board noted positive developments such as no deaths in custody and improved healthcare complaint response times, significant challenges persisted. Key concerns included high levels of violence, self-harm, and drug use, staff shortages, and an inadequate mental health service with transfer delays. The COVID-19 pandemic severely restricted the regime in the latter part of the year, further impacting time out of cell and purposeful activity.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Levels of violence, self-harm, and assaults (prisoner on staff and prisoner on prisoner) are too high.
The quality of ACCT processes and documentation is variable, and reviews are not always held on time.
There is a large proportion of inexperienced officers, contributing to high wastage and sickness rates.
The prison continues to experience very high levels of psychoactive substance and other drug use, and mobile phones are readily available.
Too many prisoners are held in segregation for long periods with no clear progression plan.
Significant difficulties with prisoners’ property during re-roling, including delays, losses, and the arrival of contraband.
Persistent delays in repairing prison accommodation and equipment, resulting in a high number of cells out of action.
The mental health service is inadequate, with unacceptably long delays in transferring prisoners to secure mental health facilities.
Insufficient offender behaviour programmes, workshops, rehabilitation programmes, and education/library services for the long-sentence population.
Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRCs) provide slow and inadequate services due to understaffing.
The prisoner complaints system consistently fails to meet target response times.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Belmarsh

Published 5 Oct 2020 · 802 prisoners

Self-harm: 444 Assaults: 267 Staff assaults: 105

AI-generated report summary HMP Belmarsh faced a challenging year, dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to significant regime restrictions. Despite this, the prison demonstrated good infection control, and staff were commended for their dedication and innovative approaches. Key concerns remain the dilapidated shower areas, persistent triple occupancy, and inadequate facilities management. While violence decreased, self-harm incidents increased, and purposeful activity and educational provision continue to need improvement, particularly in high-security and segregation units.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Deplorable and unacceptable condition of shower areas, a concern for several years.
Persistent triple occupancy of cells designed for two, raising safety and decency issues.
Poor facilities management by GFSL, leading to unacceptable delays in repairs.
Significant concerns regarding mental health issues and the cessation of face-to-face psychology work during the pandemic.
Inadequate provision of purposeful activity and education, especially for prisoners in the HSU and segregation unit, hampered by conflicts.
An unfortunate increase in self-harm incidents compared to the previous year.
Challenges in managing conflicts due to extensive gang activity, particularly during prisoner movements to and from court.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Whitemoor

Published 1 Oct 2020 · 457 prisoners

Self-harm: 286 Assaults: 29 Staff assaults: 46

AI-generated report summary HMP Whitemoor faced a challenging year marked by grave acts of violence and the COVID-19 lockdown, demonstrating skill in crisis management but struggling with increased self-harm and assaults. Key concerns include an over-reliance on segregation, high rates of education class cancellations due to staff shortages, and persistent issues with prisoner property transfers. The Board noted positive developments in family contact technology and efforts to foster a community spirit, while highlighting the need to fully establish the key worker scheme and improve facilities for vulnerable prisoners and visitors.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The over-reliance on the segregation unit due to a lack of appropriate alternative accommodation, leading to continuous regime restrictions and long periods of confinement.
A significant increase in violence and self-harm incidents, including prisoner-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-staff assaults, and a 31% rise in ACCT cases.
The lamentable performance in delivering basic education programs, with 52% of classes cancelled due to staff shortages.
Persistent issues with the management and transfer of prisoner property between establishments, causing significant anxiety.
The failure to fully establish the key worker scheme, hindering its potential positive impact on staff-prisoner relationships and progression.
Inadequate provision for older and disabled prisoners, as well as poor facilities for families visiting, including lack of hot food and safe play areas for children.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Stoke Heath

Published 30 Sep 2020 · 700 prisoners

Self-harm: 328

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Stoke Heath is largely considered safe, with strong violence reduction strategies and improved healthcare services. However, the report highlights significant concerns regarding the use of segregation for mental health cases and long waiting times for transfers. Persistent issues include inadequate telephone access, poor accountability for lost property, and a severe lack of purposeful activity and employment opportunities due to insufficient funding.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The segregation unit is being used to hold prisoners with severe mental health issues.
The small number of communal telephones limits prisoners' contact with family, causing anxiety.
There is a longstanding lack of accountability for prisoners' lost property.
Low rates of purposeful activity and employment on release persist, compounded by insufficient budget for education and vocational training.
Purposeful activity provided often does not help prisoners with suitable employment upon release.
Unacceptably long waiting times for mental health transfer assessments to inpatient beds.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Coldingley

Published 29 Sep 2020 · 438 prisoners

Self-harm: 86 Assaults: 37 Staff assaults: 34

AI-generated report summary HMP Coldingley, a Category C prison, faced significant operational challenges during the reporting period, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. While staff-prisoner relationships remained positive and healthcare provision was generally well-regarded, serious concerns persisted regarding the chronic absence of in-cell sanitation in older wings, the ongoing influx of illicit items contributing to violence, and severe disruption to education. The Board highlighted efforts to manage the pandemic's impact on the regime and welcomed planned investments to improve the estate.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The persistent volume of illicit drugs, mobile phones, and alcoholic liquid (‘hooch’) entering the prison, which contributes to violence and bullying.
The unsafe fabric of the four older wings, with slow repairs to broken windows and heating problems.
The glaring and long-standing absence of in-cell sanitation and hand washing facilities on older wings, affecting nearly 400 prisoners, especially highlighted during Covid-19.
The disarray in education, marked by staff losses, shortages, and the suspension of classes, even before the Covid-19 outbreak.
The continued concern about the number of IPP prisoners serving many years beyond their tariff.
A perceived lack of ‘joined-up thinking’ to detect trends and reliably evaluate the scale of violence and bullying, despite a wealth of statistics.
A loss of prisoner confidence in the Key Worker scheme since the previous year's survey.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Preston

Published 23 Sep 2020 · 700 prisoners

AI-generated report summary The Board found HMP Preston to be a well-run prison with good staff-prisoner relationships, despite the challenges of its Victorian infrastructure. Key concerns include the need for capital investment in reception and visits facilities, securing the adjacent museum building for security, improving body-worn camera usage, and investigating the unexpected lack of impact of the key worker scheme on IMB applications. The prison adapted well to the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Additional resources for capital projects, particularly improvements to reception and air conditioning in visits halls.
Securing resources for the purchase of the adjacent county museum building to enhance perimeter security and prison structure.
Body-worn video cameras not being switched on early enough in incidents.
The key worker scheme has not reduced IMB applications as anticipated, requiring further investigation.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Wandsworth

Published 22 Sep 2020 · 1,450 prisoners

Self-harm: 774 Assaults: 352 Staff assaults: 270

AI-generated report summary HMP Wandsworth, a Category B local prison, reported significant challenges during a year heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including a rapid lockdown response. The Board found the prison's overcrowded, 169-year-old Victorian buildings created inhumane living conditions for prisoners. Key concerns included high levels of violence and self-harm, poor resettlement outcomes, and persistent delays in mental health transfers, with the Addison unit deemed unfit for purpose.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The inhumane living conditions, stemming from overcrowding and the dilapidated 169-year-old Victorian buildings.
High levels of violence (prisoner-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-staff assaults) and self-harm incidents.
The poor quality and effectiveness of resettlement provision, resulting in very low rates of prisoners securing employment, training, or housing upon release.
Persistent, long-standing delays in transferring mentally ill prisoners to secure psychiatric accommodation.
The unsuitability and inadequacy of the 12-bed Addison mental health unit, compounded by insufficient adapted cells for wheelchair users.
Unreliable CCTV system and significant issues with missing prisoner property.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Ranby

Published 21 Sep 2020 · 1,092 prisoners

Self-harm: 624 Assaults: 408

AI-generated report summary HMP Ranby, a Category C training prison, is considered reasonably safe with generally fair treatment, though issues in communication and specific processes exist. The healthcare service is satisfactory, but challenges remain with mental health transfers and long-term care, often involving segregation. While efforts are made for resettlement, 36% of prisoners are released without accommodation. Key concerns include overcrowding, mental health provision in segregation, property transfers, and ensuring access to purposeful activity for all prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The continued practice of housing prisoners with mental health problems in the segregation unit, a concern raised previously, with no apparent action taken.
The use of single cells for two prisoners, leading to overcrowding (population 200 over CNA) and issues with decency.
The high percentage (36%) of prisoners released with no fixed abode, and suitable prisoners not being allowed home release for the same reason.
Ongoing issues for IPP prisoners, including delays in Parole Board decisions and discrimination in accessing training.
Prisoners being transferred from other prisons or returned from Category D prisons without all their property or adequate paperwork.
The level of violence within the prison.
The prevalence of illegal substances and mobile phones in the prison.
The number of missed healthcare appointments.
Ensuring all prisoners have access to purposeful employment and qualifications to aid release.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Swinfen Hall

Published 18 Sep 2020 · 556 prisoners

Self-harm: 881 Assaults: 312 Staff assaults: 63

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Swinfen Hall, a YOI and Category C prison, had a population of 556 at the end of the reporting period. The Board noted significant improvements during the COVID-19 lockdown, with reduced self-harm, ACCT cases, and violence. Key concerns remain around the poor state of accommodation, persistent racial imbalances across various aspects of prison life, and the ongoing backlog of OASys assessments hindering prisoner progression.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Poor accommodation standards, including eating meals in cells near toilets, mouldy showers, and an endemic rat infestation.
Persistent racial imbalances across all aspects of prison life, including officer diversity, adjudications, segregation, employment, and IEP status.
The ongoing loss of prisoner property and related complaints.
A significant backlog of OASys assessments, severely hindering sentence planning and rehabilitation.
An increase in self-harm incidents.
An increase in drug finds within the establishment.
Inadequate implementation of the key worker programme.
Declining education performance, marked by increased withdrawals, decreased success rates, poor mathematics results, high lost learning hours, and frequent library session cancellations.
Insufficient out-of-cell activity and limited space for additional workshops.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Berwyn

Published 17 Sep 2020

Self-harm: 1,006 Assaults: 406 Staff assaults: 244

AI-generated report summary HMP Berwyn is a Category C resettlement and training prison with an operational capacity of 2,106. The Board reports a prison in continuous evolution, marked by improved leadership and several positive initiatives in healthcare and education. However, significant concerns persist, including the availability of illicit substances, unaddressed deficiencies in meeting room facilities, and challenges arising from the double-cell design. High rates of self-harm, assaults, and non-attendance at purposeful activities also highlight ongoing issues within the establishment.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The ongoing availability of illicit substances within the prison continues to cause concern, leading to violence, aggression, and property damage.
A lack of sufficient meeting and interview rooms is a serious, unaddressed concern, particularly as the prison moves towards full capacity.
The 70% double-cell occupancy creates significant management challenges, given cell sharing risk assessments and the diverse population.
The number of prisoners held in the Care and Separation Unit (CASU) for over 84 days needs urgent attention.
Persistent issues with the building's infrastructure, including the reliability of the heating system and latent paint defects leading to peeling paint.
A significant number of prisoners fail to attend healthcare appointments (15.8% wasted appointments) and allocated work activities (13% non-attendance).
Lack of confidence in the Discrimination Incident Report Form (DIRF) investigation process from both staff and prisoners.
Ongoing issues with cross-contamination of food on house serveries and complaints handling processes, including high volumes of Unilink applications and inconsistent responses.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Pentonville

Published 9 Sep 2020 · 1,025 prisoners

Self-harm: 682

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Pentonville, a category B/C local prison, faces significant challenges in providing a safe and rehabilitative environment. While staff demonstrated resilience during COVID-19, and some improvements were made in drug reduction and key working, the prison's deteriorating infrastructure, high levels of violence, and persistent issues with regime delivery severely impacted prisoner welfare and resettlement. The Board highlights a lack of investment, poor maintenance, and inadequate staffing as root causes, resulting in concerns about safety, healthcare access, and purposeful activity.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The prison is unsuitable for 21st-century incarceration with no sign of urgent financial investment in its decaying infrastructure.
Hand-made weapons are regularly found, self-harm increased by 14%, and there were six deaths in custody.
Use of force governance remains poor, with increased incidents, incomplete reports, and Body-Worn Video Cameras rarely used or failing.
Persistent plumbing issues across the prison cause frequent lack of hot/cold water, blocked toilets/showers, and leaks, with many cells having inadequately screened toilets and showers in poor repair.
Education and work attendance is dismal at 56% due to persistent problems in delivering prisoners to activities, negatively affecting purposeful use of time and resettlement progression.
Healthcare provision faces challenges including cancelled hospital appointments due to escort shortages, inadequate medication supervision, and the award-winning wellbeing centre being underutilised due to regime lockdowns.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Stafford

Published 26 Aug 2020 · 734 prisoners

Self-harm: 101 Assaults: 24 Staff assaults: 12

AI-generated report summary HMP Stafford, a Category C training prison, has maintained a calm and humane environment, receiving commendations for its rehabilitative culture, strong health provision, and significant reductions in safety incidents. While accommodation, education, and staff-resident relationships were positive, the Board expressed ongoing concerns. These include property loss during transfers, slow in-cell phone rollout, inadequate funding for resettlement and resident pay, and issues with medicine management and the delayed Regional Care Facility.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent loss of prisoner property during transfers between establishments.
Slow rollout of in-cell telephones, critical for family contact given the older population and pandemic restrictions.
Inadequate budget for resident pay, failing to match rates in private prisons despite high activity attendance.
Ineffective model for transferring men convicted of sexual offences to resettlement establishments.
Insufficient financial resources for resettlement, despite the prison regularly releasing residents.
Lack of adherence to orders regarding supervision of medicine queues and occasional medication errors.
Continued delay in the development of a Regional Care Facility for residents with severe care needs.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Standford Hill

Published 25 Aug 2020

Self-harm: 2 Assaults: 0 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Standford Hill is a well-run Category D prison and YOI, commended for its strong emphasis on rehabilitation and an exceptionally low reoffending rate. Despite positive staff and prisoner morale, the Board highlights a need for on-site kitchen facilities, an internet room, and better consistency in property rules. The prison responded effectively to the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The lack of dedicated kitchen facilities, which restricts further development and poses health risks.
The need for an internet room to equip prisoners with appropriate skills for resettlement and family links.
The temporary C wing has far outlived its projected lifespan, requiring significant investment and dealing with ongoing issues like rats.
Slow development of a national vocational qualification in gardens, with unsatisfactory oversight from Government Facility Services Limited.
Funding constraints have halted educational initiatives, reversing progress and restricting available options for prisoners.
Inconsistent and haphazardly applied property rules, particularly regarding items like X-boxes and music systems, cause prisoner frustration.
Prisoners dislike the current roll call system, which they find demeaning.
Administrative issues with external probation links leading to serious delays in ROTL clearance, frustrating prisoners.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Whatton

Published 21 Aug 2020 · 821 prisoners

Self-harm: 366 Assaults: 52 Staff assaults: 13

AI-generated report summary HMP Whatton, a Category C prison for sexual offenders, is generally safe and treats prisoners fairly, but faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic with 23-hour cellular confinement. Major concerns include the substandard B wing and healthcare facilities, delayed mental health transfers, and issues with prisoner property and resettlement planning. The Board praised staff's handling of the pandemic and the quality of education and mental health teams.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Prolonged 23-hour cellular confinement due to COVID-19 is unsustainable and inhumane.
Substandard accommodation in B wings, which are tiny, non-compliant, and have retro-fitted toilets close to beds.
Healthcare facility accommodation is inadequate, non-compliant, and suffering from a significant maintenance backlog despite repeated rejected funding bids.
Delays in mental health transfers to secure hospitals for seriously ill prisoners, with one prisoner held for over 107 days.
Frequent loss of prisoners' property during transfers and lack of a reliable tracking system.
Untimely notification of approved premises for released high-risk prisoners, hindering resettlement and employment opportunities.
Ageing fire and general alarm systems require urgent replacement, and poor condition of roads/pathways poses health and safety risks.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Peterborough (Men)

Published 20 Aug 2020

Self-harm: 690

AI-generated report summary The IMB at HMP Peterborough (Men) found that prisoners are generally treated fairly and humanely, with a good regime offering an average of 10.5 hours out of cell daily. The prison has an operational capacity of 868 and held 22 IPP prisoners. Positive developments include a decrease in assaults, improved healthcare, and effective resettlement support through initiatives like Outside Links. Key concerns include the persistent issue of lost property, inadequate screening of in-cell toilets, long periods spent in segregation for some individuals, and the difficulty in securing suitable accommodation upon release.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The handling of prisoners’ property continues to be problematic, both within the prison and on transfer.
In-cell toilets are not adequately screened, particularly in shared cells, and some areas are in need of redecoration; wings are not always clean and tidy.
Some prisoners are held in the separation and care unit (SCU) for long periods while awaiting transfer.
There is little evidence of health promotion activities.
There is not always suitable accommodation for prisoners with disabilities.
The lack of suitable accommodation for prisoners on release remains a concern.
The level of illicit substance availability and use, and its consequences for prisoners’ safety, is problematic.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Peterborough (Women)

Published 20 Aug 2020

Self-harm: 1,697

AI-generated report summary This annual report for HMP/YOI Peterborough (Women) highlights overall fair and humane treatment of prisoners, with a good regime offering ample time out of cell. Positive developments include improved safety resources, healthcare governance, and the successful rollout of the OMiC programme. Key concerns, however, persist regarding the lack of suitable accommodation on release, challenges in managing women with complex needs, and a significant rise in self-harm incidents.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The lack of suitable accommodation for women on release remains a significant concern, with 36% of women lacking settled accommodation, hindering efforts to reduce reoffending.
The management of women with complex needs is challenging; some are segregated for long periods with limited regimes, and the prison lacks resources for appropriate interventions and an on-site forensic psychologist.
Despite increased focus on safety, there has been a significant increase in self-harm incidents (1697 compared to 939 last year), largely from a few prolific self-harmers, and substance misuse remains an issue.
In-cell toilets are not screened for privacy, particularly in shared cells, and improved in-cell facilities for women with disabilities are required, as wing cells lack essential aids like grab rails and raised toilet seats.
Equality issues persist, including difficulties in sourcing specific canteen products for Black, Asian and minority ethnic prisoners and a high number of racial discrimination reports (46 out of 76).
The poor quality of mattresses and difficulty obtaining replacements are noted complaints impacting prisoner well-being.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Rye Hill

Published 19 Aug 2020 · 658 prisoners

Assaults: 71 Staff assaults: 39

AI-generated report summary HMP Rye Hill, a Category B training prison for men convicted of sexual offences, operated at or near its maximum capacity of 664 during the reporting year. The IMB found the prison to be a generally safe and fair environment, with improvements in healthcare provision and staff stability. However, significant concerns persist regarding the inadequate provision for elderly and disabled prisoners, the protracted process for compassionate release, and the lack of specialist support and resettlement opportunities for IPP and other complex needs prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The long periods some prisoners with mental health and behavioural disorders spend in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU) due to poor provision of secure hospital and specialist unit places, especially for men convicted of sexual offences.
Physical constraints and limitations of the prison estate in providing adapted housing and facilities for elderly and disabled prisoners.
The protracted process for applying for compassionate release for dying prisoners.
The scaling back of personal and social development courses in favour of a focus on English and mathematics.
Insufficient funded support and tailored interventions for IPP prisoners with complex needs, particularly Category B men convicted of a sexual offence, leading to prolonged over-tariff stays.
The ongoing difficulty in finding suitable places in resettlement prisons for Category B men convicted of a sexual offence nearing the end of their sentences.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Rochester

Published 13 Aug 2020 · 667 prisoners

Assaults: 275

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Rochester remains a Category C resettlement prison providing a safe and decent environment, with commendations for its Key Worker system and effective response to Covid-19. Despite challenges such as drug availability and deteriorating buildings, the prison offers a humane regime with good work activity engagement and mental healthcare. Key concerns include persistent staffing shortages, issues with prisoner property transfers, and a critical lack of suitable accommodation for prisoners upon release.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Increased funding for resources across the prison estate to tackle drug use, including security technology and intervention programmes.
Lack of suitable accommodation for all prisoners on release, leading to homelessness.
Persistent problems with property losses during prisoner transfers between establishments.
Unacceptable delays in transferring re-categorised Category B prisoners from the Segregation Unit due to uncooperative receiving prisons.
Overcrowding of Category D prisoners at Rochester awaiting transfer to appropriate Category D establishments.
Haphazard cell clearance checks, leading to prisoner property loss, especially during moves to the Segregation Unit.
Disruptive and stressful roll count arrangements, particularly before lockdown, which need addressing as restrictions relax.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Styal

Published 12 Aug 2020

Self-harm: 2,362 Assaults: 182 Staff assaults: 151

AI-generated report summary HMP Styal experienced both positive developments and ongoing challenges in the reporting year. While safety measures improved and staff maintained a humane regime, significant concerns persisted regarding accommodation maintenance, perimeter security, and the management of complex mental health needs. Drug use increased, and issues with purposeful activity attendance remained, highlighting areas requiring continued focus and resources for improvement.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant failings in accommodation maintenance, leading to deterioration and decency issues, were also reported last year.
The prison’s safety and security are compromised by inadequate perimeter fencing, reception, gatehouse, and visitor processing areas.
There is a pressing need for more national specialist facilities for complex prisoners requiring long-term segregation.
Contracts with external maintenance providers result in excessive quotations, long delays in repairs, and health and safety issues, leaving some areas unusable.
The prison struggles to manage many prisoners with severe and enduring mental health problems and complex needs, housing high-risk prisoners in low-risk accommodation, impacting safety and security (also reported last year).
There has been an increase in drug use and trade, causing intimidation and bullying, exacerbated by perimeter fencing deficiencies and throw-over packages.
Attendance at work and education remains an issue, with many unauthorised absences and a downward trend in industry attendance.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Oakwood

Published 7 Aug 2020 · 2,060 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,176

AI-generated report summary HMP Oakwood maintains good overall safety and humane treatment, with commendations for staff collaboration, peer-led initiatives, and positive reception processes. However, significant concerns persist regarding the quality and quantity of education provision by Novus due to staffing issues, and a lack of national progress on prisoner property transfers. Other key issues include inconsistent use of force implementation, deteriorating cell facilities, and challenges in healthcare provision such as medication transfers and secondary care capacity. The Board will continue to monitor these areas in the next reporting period.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The quality and quantity of educational provision by Novus has fallen sharply, impacted by significant staffing issues including poor retention and recruitment.
Little progress has been made at a national level to address concerns about the management, accountability, and transfer of prisoner property across the prison estate.
There are outstanding questions regarding the clarity and implementation of the prison's drug and alcohol strategy, including protocols with Police and Probation, and CCTV in visits.
Recommendations made by Instructors regarding the use of force are not being fully implemented.
Shower and toilet facilities in cells are deteriorating and difficult to maintain as hygienic.
Staff inconsistently enforce PPE use and adequate cleaning materials are not always available in serveries.
Health complaints boxes are not always readily available or accessible to prisoners.
New arrivals are sometimes left without medication on their first night due to transferring prisons failing to send it.
Officers are not consistently present at medicine hatches during dispensing, adding pressure on nurses.
Delays in checking prisoner telephone numbers on transfer prevent timely communication with families.
Body-worn video cameras are not always being used by operational staff.
Agency nurses attending Good Order Reviews in the CSU sometimes lack awareness of complex prisoner needs.
There are ongoing problems with the follow-up of PPO and consultant recommendations for secondary healthcare referrals due to capacity constraints.
Wages for vocational courses are lower than those for industries, potentially disincentivizing participation.
A lack of internal evaluation on education outcomes, due to new system development, hinders assessment of training effectiveness.
An increase in race-related Discrimination Incident Reporting Forms (DIRFs) highlights concerns regarding equality.
Timeframes for referring prisoners with severe mental health problems to the secure estate are problematic.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Nottingham

Published 6 Aug 2020 · 880 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,024 Assaults: 375 Staff assaults: 171

AI-generated report summary HMP Nottingham saw overall improvements in fairness and safety during the reporting year, including a reduction in violence against staff and deaths in custody. However, self-harm incidents rose significantly, and concerns persist regarding long delays for mental health transfers and the high number of prisoners released without accommodation. The Board also highlighted issues with purposeful activity uptake and the key worker scheme's inconsistent implementation.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Difficulties transferring prisoners with severe mental health issues to suitable treatment environments.
Significant concerns regarding prisoners released without accommodation and inadequate bail hostel availability, impacting HDC eligibility.
Service-wide difficulties moving prisoners for whom a category B local prison is not appropriate to other parts of the estate.
Vulnerable prisoner wings housing other categories of prisoners, leading to increased fear of bullying and drug circulation.
Many prisoners do not participate in purposeful activity, with opportunities often unsuitable for remand or short-sentence prisoners.
Continued high prevalence of self-harm incidents, with levels rising, and stubbornly high incidents of prisoner-on-prisoner violence.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Swaleside

Published 5 Aug 2020 · 1,083 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Swaleside reported a year of significant progress in safety and a generally improved environment, despite the challenges of COVID-19. However, the Board highlighted persistent concerns including unacceptably high violence, poor performance of maintenance provider GFSL, and severely limited opportunities for purposeful activity and vocational training for residents. Issues with hygiene, contraband, and cancelled healthcare appointments also remain key areas for development.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Continued unacceptably high level of violence, remaining at the head of its comparator group.
Persistent poor performance of Government Facility Services Limited (GFSL) impacting maintenance, repairs, and general prison conditions.
Kitchen capacity is severely overstretched due to catering for both Swaleside and HMP Standford Hill, leading to concerns about food quantity and equipment failure.
Lack of meaningful employment, vocational training, and educational opportunities, particularly for MCOSO and vulnerable residents, and poor attendance.
Ongoing issues with hygiene and cleanliness across the prison, including appalling showers, serveries, self-cook areas, littering, and a rat problem.
Easy acquisition of mobile phones and weapons, exacerbating debt, violence, self-harm, and residents choosing to self-seclude.
Unacceptable number of cancelled external hospital appointments due to lack of escorts, wasting NHS time and causing distress.
Lack of in-cell telephony in the inpatient department (IPD) and some CSRU cells.
Insufficient resettlement support for the small number of residents released directly from Swaleside, with no employment or accommodation arranged.
High number of adjudications not proceeded with due to procedural issues.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Erlestoke

Published 4 Aug 2020 · 484 prisoners

Self-harm: 211 Assaults: 123 Staff assaults: 52

AI-generated report summary HMP Erlestoke, a Category C rehabilitation prison, maintained fair and humane treatment for the most part, despite significant impacts from the COVID-19 lockdown. The report highlights improvements in education and offender management, and notes a decrease in self-harm incidents. However, key concerns persist regarding GFSL's maintenance performance, the prison's ageing infrastructure, and healthcare waiting times.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

GFSL continues to disappoint with poor maintenance, project mismanagement, and a significant backlog of works orders.
The ageing fabric of the prison requires major investment to improve the standard of accommodation.
Drugs remain a significant problem, and more effective interception methods are needed.
Healthcare attendance at mandatory first ACCT reviews is still unsatisfactory, and communication between Prison Reception and Healthcare is poor.
The monitoring of equality and fairness has lacked a robust regime, with limited statistics and follow-up investigations.
Waiting times for routine GP appointments are unacceptably long, and limited escorted hospital visits cause hardship.
Improvement is needed in the line management, quality control, training, and mentoring for Key Working.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Moorland

Published 4 Aug 2020 · 954 prisoners

Self-harm: 477

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Moorland, a Category C male resettlement prison, has reported significant improvements in safety metrics, including reductions in violence, self-harm, and drug use during the March 2019 – February 2020 reporting period. The Board noted positive developments in staff-prisoner relationships and the IEP system. However, national shortages in secure mental health beds, limited offending behaviour programmes, and a persistent lack of suitable accommodation for released prisoners remain key concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

National shortage of secure psychiatric beds leading to delays in mental health transfers.
Limited availability of offending behaviour programmes, especially for MCOSOs.
Significant shortfall of suitable post-release accommodation for prisoners.
Key worker sessions are being curtailed due to staff availability issues.
The principle of ‘virtual’ segregation transfers, potentially moving complex prisoners without addressing their issues.
Property loss (within and between establishments) continues to be the greatest category of Board applications.
The national daily budget for food (£2.02 since 2010) is considered too low.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Hull

Published 27 Jul 2020

Assaults: 254 Staff assaults: 44

AI-generated report summary HMP Hull, a category B local and YOI prison, recorded 8 deaths in custody this year, including four self-inflicted, but generally maintained a safe environment with reductions in violence and substance misuse incidents. While healthcare provision and purposeful activity are largely positive, the Board identified significant concerns including persistent problems with property management, delays in mental health transfers, slow contractor responses to maintenance, and a lack of post-release outcome data. Recommendations address these issues, aiming to improve prisoner experience, particularly for vulnerable individuals and young adults.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The high number of deaths in custody (8), including four self-inflicted deaths.
Persistent issues with property management, both within the prison and during transfers, contributing to prisoner distress and compensation claims.
Slow response from external contractors (Amey, BT) to maintenance issues, particularly faulty showers and in-cell phone problems.
Delays in transferring prisoners with complex needs, especially those with mental health issues, to appropriate external secure mental health facilities, leading to prolonged stays in segregation or wellbeing units.
Concerns regarding the effectiveness and accessibility of the complaints system, with official responses often incomprehensible to many prisoners.
Lack of consistent data on prisoner outcomes post-release, hindering the evaluation of resettlement strategies.
Staffing issues within education leading to class closures, and difficulty sourcing appropriate library materials for prisoners with limited literacy.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Portland

Published 23 Jul 2020

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Portland, a Category C prison, faced significant challenges in delivering a stable daily regime, with frequent shutdowns impacting education and activity opportunities. While prisoner-on-prisoner assaults reduced slightly, overall violence remained high, and the prison struggled with drug ingress and staff shortages in mental health services. The Board noted concerns regarding poor building maintenance, staff attitudes towards prisoners, and issues with property transfers.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Lack of accommodation available through local authorities in Dorset for released prisoners, specifically night-shelter facilities and move-on supported housing provision.
Urgent structural repairs required to the fabric of buildings, plumbing, heating and telephony systems, and an updated assessment of health and safety conditions in workshops.
Systems to ensure the safe storage of prisoner property, specifically during inter-prison transfers, need addressing due to high amounts of missing property.
Checks need to be put in place to ensure that critically unwell prisoners cannot be unilaterally transferred without prior negotiation and comprehensive medical records.
Failure to deliver a consistent regime, with frequent shutdowns and last-minute changes impacting education, work, and programmes, and destabilising the prisoner population.
Prisoners from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, those with mental health problems, and those with other protected characteristics do not feel understood or supported by operational staff; confidence in discrimination incident reporting and complaints process is low.
Concerns about use of force practices, specifically the failure of staff to wear/switch on body-worn cameras and issues with recovering CCTV footage.
Ongoing difficulties in the appointment and retention of psychologists and psychiatrists, impacting healthcare service provision.
Unacceptable number of prisoners failing to attend pre-arranged healthcare appointments due to OSG staff not following agreed protocols, a repeated issue.
The ingress of illicit drugs into Portland needs to be addressed due to its impact on health, well-being, and links to debt, bullying, and violence.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Glasgow, Edinburgh and Larne House Short Term Holding Facilities

Published 21 Jul 2020

Self-harm: 1 Assaults: 1 Staff assaults: 1

AI-generated report summary This report covers the Glasgow, Edinburgh and Larne House Short-Term Holding Facilities from February 2019 to January 2020. The Board found that detainees are largely treated humanely and respectfully by DCOs across all establishments, noting good practice in various areas. However, significant concerns remain regarding the adequacy of airport Holding Rooms for longer stays, including lack of fresh air, natural light, showering facilities, and exercise opportunities. Other key issues include delays in building work at Glasgow Airport, inadequate separation of female accommodation at Larne House, and problems with accessing prescribed medication for detainees.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Some detainees are being held in the Holding Rooms, at Glasgow and Edinburgh Airports for periods of eight hours and more, and we have concerns about the impact on their wellbeing, given the location, size and limited capacity of the holding rooms. In particular there is a lack of fresh air and natural light. The meals provided are very basic with varieties to include for vegetarian and cultural needs. There is no access to showering facilities, which we feel are a basic personal hygiene requirement. Moreover, detainees are not afforded the opportunity to undertake basic physical exercise.
The location of the Holding Room, at Terminal one in Edinburgh Airport has now become, with the greater utilisation of terminal two, remote. Traffic is now increasingly being focused on Terminal two (T2) and this has impacted on the efficiency of the detention process with detainees having to be sometimes walked 20-25 minutes through public areas to the HR. This has implications for both public security and the dignity of the detained person. While, in the majority of cases, detainees are transported by van, there is a limited number of United Kingdom Border Force (UKBF) Officers authorised as airside drivers and, in any case, the process impacts negatively on the efficient use of staff.
The long outstanding building work at the Glasgow Airport, where a much needed additional HR is being created, has not yet been completed. This work has considerably overrun, exacerbated by having more than one commissioning agent with responsibility for completion of the work, and also funding, from several sources, with responsibility being similarly shared. This has had an impact on the overall capacity of the facility to provide a safe and efficient detention provision.
We previously requested that, for privacy reasons, the toilet doors, in the holding room at Festival Court, be extended to the floor and ceiling. While this work was carried out, we now feel, on reflection, that the extension to the ceiling may limit the custody officers’ ability to monitor the safety of an individual detainee.
The accommodation assigned to female detainees, at Larne House STHF, is inadequately separated from the male accommodation. We understand, however, that the female area is going to be partitioned with a locked entry door which will be utilised at night.
We continue to be concerned about the lack of ready available interpreting facilities within HRs and the STHF. We understand that electronic translators are to be provided in each establishment.
Detainees can be held, sometimes for up to seven days in the Larne House STHF. We feel that there is insufficient opportunity for them to take physical exercise, e.g. walking, in the daylight with fresh air, because the existing outside quadrangle, in the centre of the building, does not meet the requirement, in terms of area, to support this. In our opinion this area, while brightly decorated and furnished, is somewhat limited. It does act as a relaxation area for smokers and non-smokers alike, but it is unlikely that both could use it simultaneously.
Detainees often arrive in the HRs’ with their personal prescription medication, or alternatively require access to additional supplies of that medication. UKBF Officers and Care &Custody DCOs routinely remove the medicines from the individual detainees and are also forbidden, for health and safety reasons, to administer this medicine. We are concerned that this practice could adversely impact on detainees health.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Leicester

Published 16 Jul 2020 · 340 prisoners

Self-harm: 471 Assaults: 133 Staff assaults: 103

AI-generated report summary HMP Leicester is a well-run local prison commended for strong leadership, good staff-prisoner relationships, and effective management of safety incidents, including a decline in NPS use. However, the Board holds significant concerns regarding the prolonged detention of foreign national prisoners and the severely mentally ill, as well as the ongoing poor state of segregation unit accommodation. Staffing pressures and the unsatisfactory performance of contractors like Amey also pose challenges to maintaining decency and effective regimes.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Delays in capital improvement programme and security enhancements.
Slow and inconsistent police/court processes for serious assaults on staff.
Unfair prolonged detention of foreign national prisoners under IS91 after sentence expiry.
Prolonged detention of severely mentally ill prisoners in inhumane segregation conditions awaiting secure hospital transfer.
Ongoing unsatisfactory performance of Amey Facilities Management.
Delays in improving accommodation in the segregation unit.
Continued loss of prisoner property during transfers and within the establishment.
The need for re-invigoration of the ‘equality and diversity’ function.
The need to develop the Lambert unit's rehabilitative regime.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Lowdham Grange

Published 15 Jul 2020 · 885 prisoners

Assaults: 116 Staff assaults: 67

AI-generated report summary HMP Lowdham Grange generally provides fair and humane treatment, evidenced by a positive regime and improved staffing stability. Violence has decreased, and healthcare provision is seeing significant improvements, although challenges remain with mental health transfers and inadequate accommodation. Concerns persist regarding property loss, the consistency of the key worker scheme, and slow progress for IPP prisoners, along with ongoing issues in education and access to local prisons for release planning.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The loss of prisoners’ property on transfer from other prisons.
The perception that the prisoner information and amenities committee fails to make swift progress on issues.
Body-worn cameras are not worn as routinely as they should be by staff.
The key worker scheme is not yet working as consistently as intended.
Slow progress in the release of prisoners serving indeterminate sentences for public protection (IPP).
The unavailability of appropriate facilities for prisoners with severe mental health issues, leading to extended segregation.
The relatively slow progress in improving education provision, including a shortfall of six tutors.
The increasing difficulty in accessing places in local prisons for prisoners nearing release.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Thorn Cross

Published 14 Jul 2020

Self-harm: 0 Assaults: 3 Staff assaults: 3

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Thorn Cross is a high-performing open prison for adult males, offering a positive rehabilitative culture where prisoners generally feel safe and are treated humanely. While the prison demonstrates good healthcare provision and strong staff-prisoner relationships, key concerns include the unsatisfactory state of the OMU building, the unsuitability of new furniture, and issues surrounding prisoner transfers, particularly regarding drug status and medical needs. The Board also highlights the need for a re-evaluation of mobile phone use and the high cost of telephone calls to maintain family links.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The Ministry of Justice should reconsider the use of mobile phones for prisoners in the open estate, given the success during COVID-19.
The high cost of telephone calls remains an issue, impacting prisoners’ ability to maintain family contact.
The Offender Management Unit (OMU) building is in an unsatisfactory state and a replacement should be a high priority for the Prison Service.
The newly provided chairs are unsuitable, uncomfortable, and unsafe, with prisoners refusing to use them.
The fire alarm system does not meet current standards, and a completion date for a new system should be set.
Prisoners transferring from closed conditions are sometimes found to be positive for drugs upon reception, despite assessments indicating they should be drug-free.
A 'medical hold' process for prisoners requiring ongoing specialist treatment upon transfer has been requested but not approved, creating resource strain.
Prisoners' belongings continue to go astray during transfers, often due to van drivers' discretion and GeoAmey's apparent intransigence.
Concerns persist regarding the level of mental healthcare, with a slight increase in prisoners admitting suicidal thoughts and a need for more support for those adjusting to open regimes.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

North Sea Camp

Published 10 Jul 2020 · 412 prisoners

Self-harm: 22 Assaults: 6 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP North Sea Camp is an open Category D prison noted for its rehabilitative culture and generally humane treatment of residents. The Board commends improvements in healthcare and positive staff-resident relationships, alongside community engagement. However, significant concerns remain regarding delays in Offender Management paperwork, inadequate accommodation conditions (including continued use of dormitories), and a lack of specific facilities for end-of-life and dementia care for the prison's increasing elderly population. These issues, alongside property transfer problems and laundry machinery breakdowns, require urgent attention and capital investment.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Delays by Offender Managers in completing OASys and ROTL paperwork, affecting parole and causing anxiety.
Significant difficulties for wheelchair users in obtaining suitable Approved Premises for ROR, hindering resettlement.
Lack of an on-site palliative care unit and no national policy/resources for dementia care for the increasingly elderly population.
Persistent problems with property transfers between prisons, leading to lost belongings and compensation claims.
Accommodation is outdated, cramped, and dormitories remain in use, requiring major refurbishment and not meeting PSI standards for double rooms.
Out-of-service laundry machinery and inability to issue bus warrants further impede daily life and resettlement.
Resident confusion and angst regarding periodic changes to the pay regime and the need to sustain improved OMU staff conduct.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Send

Published 10 Jul 2020

Self-harm: 543 Assaults: 24 Staff assaults: 14

AI-generated report summary HMP Send is considered a safe and humane prison, with decent living conditions and staff demonstrating kindness, though it handles challenging prisoners with complex needs. There has been an increase in violence and self-harm, partly attributed to drug usage. The Board is concerned about the prolonged detention of IPP prisoners, staff shortages affecting the regime, and issues with the canteen service and property transfers. Positively, dental waiting times have improved, and resettlement into accommodation is notably successful.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The unjust detention of IPP prisoners who are all many years past their tariff date.
Failure to provide enough probation officers, denying prisoners entitled support.
Fewer prisoners benefiting from Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) despite policy framework changes.
The new Integrity Hotline is not added to the national permitted PIN phone numbers.
The canteen contract operated by DHL is unsatisfactory.
Difficulty in recruiting staff, leading to shortages that impact the regime and prisoners.
Prisoners’ property regularly continues to be left behind during transfers to Send.
Failure to prevent illegal drugs from entering the establishment, impacting stability and safety.
Lack of better support from the Offender Management Unit (OMU), with untimely responses to applications.
Regular incorrect roll checks continue to disrupt the regime.
Prisoner equality focus groups are not held regularly and actions are not taken forward consistently.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Low Newton

Published 8 Jul 2020 · 271 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Low Newton provides a generally safe and humane environment with high staff morale and respectful interactions. Healthcare provision is good for most, but the Board highlights long-standing concerns regarding the detention of mentally ill women due to a lack of community places and delays in hospital transfers. Deteriorating prison infrastructure, particularly leaky roofs, significantly impedes education and work opportunities. Resettlement efforts are hampered by a lack of suitable accommodation for a notable proportion of releases. The Board also raised concerns about drug misuse (Buscopan) and the need for more funding for key support services.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The number of prisoners suffering from severe mental health issues, with some detained due to a lack of places of safety in the community and difficulty arranging secure hospital beds.
The deteriorating state of the prison roofs, which has led to classrooms and workshop areas being out of action, reducing education and work opportunities, and creating health and safety issues.
The need for more funding to provide additional domestic violence support, trauma counselling, supported accommodation, and social work both in prison and upon release.
The ongoing issue with the misuse of Buscopan within the prison, which has persisted for several years.
Challenges in resettlement planning, particularly the difficulty in finding suitable and safe accommodation for a significant percentage (15-20%) of women upon release.

Report year 2020 PRISON Concerns

Year	Reports
2020	129
2021	126
2022	132
2023	134
2024	133
2025	128
2026	29

Annual reports

Establishment types

Reports by year

Key findings

IMB reports by establishment type
Establishment type	Reports
Prison	789
IRC	22