IMB Annual Reports

Askham Grange

Published 25 Apr 2025

Self-harm: 0 Assaults: 1 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Askham Grange is generally a safe and positive environment for women, with excellent staff-prisoner relationships, no self-harm incidents, and no use of force. While healthcare provision is good, concerns persist regarding accessibility and transparency of the complaints process, and issues with medication dispensing lockers. The prison excels in purposeful activity and resettlement, yet faces challenges with maintaining capacity and ensuring prisoners arrive with sufficient time to fully benefit from open conditions.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The impact of the Female Offender Strategy Delivery Plan on short sentences and the relatively low number of prisoners at Askham Grange.
How the Prison Service promotes the benefits of open conditions, particularly given Askham Grange remains below capacity and receives prisoners with insufficient time to benefit from opportunities.
Lack of services to support prisoners who have been subject to sexual and domestic violence, despite Governor's requests.
Healthcare complaints process is not evident, transparent, or encouraged, with prisoners feeling discouraged from complaining.
Ongoing problems with phone lines, impacting family contact.
Lack of a managing chaplain.
Traka medication distribution lockers being out of action for the entire reporting year.
Uncertainty of central funding for the reading specialist post and lack of funding for the prisoner health champion role.
Prisoners' reluctance to submit complaints due to fear of return to closed conditions.
Dissatisfaction with how a small number of staff interact with prisoners.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Drake Hall

Published 24 Apr 2025 · 317 prisoners

Self-harm: 782 Assaults: 87 Staff assaults: 18

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Drake Hall, a women's closed prison, averaged 317 prisoners during the reporting year, demonstrating a safe and humane environment despite an increasingly complex population. The prison experienced significant increases in self-harm (782 incidents) and assaults (87 prisoner-on-prisoner, 18 on staff). Key concerns include dilapidated accommodation units needing replacement for over 20 years, the use of segregation for acutely mentally ill prisoners, chronic property issues, and a restrictive regime with limited exercise.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The increasingly complex nature of the prison population has led to a rise in self-harm, violence, and bullying, making some women feel unsafe.
The prison faces staffing resource concerns, with a minimal number of officers available impacting the basic regime and staff morale.
The poor and dilapidated conditions of Richmond and Plymouth houses, dating back to WWII, remain a long-standing and unresolved issue for over 20 years.
The use of the Care and Support Unit (CSU) to manage women with acute mental illness awaiting hospital transfer is a disturbing and unacceptable systemic problem.
Property delays and losses, particularly during transfers, continue to be a significant and distressing problem for women, often remaining unresolved.
The regime is more restrictive compared to pre-pandemic, with inadequate opportunities for fresh air and meaningful exercise for women.
The education budget has seen no increase for over 10 years, leading to a real-terms reduction in resources.
The increasing number of women transferred with short sentences or close to release impedes rehabilitative work and preparation for release.
Ongoing problems with medication management, including administration processes, control of prescription trading, and dispensary design.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Cookham Wood

Published 23 Apr 2025 · 20 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMYOI Cookham Wood operated as a young offender institution until its closure in May 2024, after a period of significant instability and an Urgent Notification from HMIP. Throughout much of the reporting period, boys experienced an unpredictable regime with limited time out of cell and inconsistent education due to resource shortages. However, a marked improvement in the regime was observed in the final weeks as the population decreased, demonstrating the potential for a more humane environment with sufficient staffing. The closure process itself raised major concerns regarding leadership, communication, and the impact on relocated boys and specialist staff.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Cookham Wood was an unstable and unsettling place for boys, with makeshift weapons commonplace and a pervasive fear of violence.
Boys were frequently locked in their rooms for over 20 hours a day, consistently failing to meet the minimum standard of two hours out of cell, which the Board deemed inhumane.
The constantly changing regimes and broken promises about activities and association time shattered trust, leading to significant frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem among the boys.
Insufficient officer numbers frequently meant education and purposeful activity were irregular and inconsistent, limiting opportunities for rehabilitation.
The decision to close the YOI, and the lack of timely, concrete information, caused extreme uncertainty and anxiety for boys being relocated far from home, and severely damaged staff morale.
Overall, there was an appalling lack of clarity of leadership and impactful project management from YCS and HMPPS regarding the closure and the future of highly trained staff and budgets.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Heathrow immigration removal centre

Published 15 Apr 2025

Self-harm: 180 Assaults: 131 Staff assaults: 54

AI-generated report summary The IMB report for Heathrow IRC (2023) highlights increasing safety concerns, including a rise in self-harm (180 incidents), assaults (131 detainee-on-detainee, 54 on staff), and drug finds (104). The Board expresses significant concerns over the detention of mentally unfit individuals, the dilapidated infrastructure, and the misuse of segregation units. While health needs are generally met, staffing shortages and delayed Rule 35 responses remain problematic. The report also notes repeated concerns about prolonged detention times and the need for improved resettlement pathways for those on bail.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The centre is less safe than previous years, with increasing fights, assaults on staff, frequent lockdowns, and a rise in throwovers, illicit drugs, vapes, and phones.
People who are mentally unfit for detention are still assessed and approved for detention, exacerbated by Operation Safeguard bringing more Foreign National Offenders (FNOs) who contribute to increased violence.
Failings of the Detention Engagement Team (DET) to engage effectively contribute to frustration and powerlessness, potentially leading to self-harm incidents.
The dilapidated infrastructure, frequent loss of services (power, gas, water, communications), and lack of significant investment severely test the fairness and humanity of treatment.
Concerns about the variety, quantity, and quality of food on offer, impacting physical and mental well-being, as well as safety and security.
The Care and Separation Unit (CSU) is being misused, including for facilitating removal directions days in advance of cancelled flights, housing individuals who refuse to share rooms, and for mentally ill detained people, contrary to Detention Centre Rules.
Complaints regarding contracted services are not believed to be properly investigated, leading to a lack of trust in the system, with 77% of complaints unsubstantiated.
Staff shortages and lack of escorts result in cancelled hospital appointments and worse health outcomes for detainees.
Too many detained people are held for unacceptably long periods without the prospect of imminent removal, including those held for over 200 days.
Delays in finding suitable accommodation for those granted bail, particularly for time-served foreign national offenders (TSFNOs), due to inconsistent communication between Home Office, Probation, and local authorities.
Significant increase in throwovers (44 in 2023 vs zero in 2022) containing drugs and contraband, indicating a breach in security.
Lack of progress on crucial investment in infrastructure, especially heating and ventilation systems, despite previous recommendations and a delayed new contract.
Rule 35 reports are not responded to within the mandated two working days, causing Adults at Risk to remain detained when they should be released.
Prolonged detention of mentally ill individuals in the CSU, contrary to rules, exacerbates anxiety and poor mental health, with no appropriate alternative mental health pathway.

Report year 2023 IRC Concerns

Guys Marsh

Published 11 Apr 2025 · 483 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Guys Marsh experienced a challenging reporting year marked by a significant rise in self-harm and assaults, exacerbated by staff shortages that led to a three-month restricted regime. The ingress of illicit items remained a persistent concern, and the prisoner complaints system broke down mid-year. While positive developments included an award-winning healthcare service and new prisoner incentives, the poor state of the older wings and high offender manager caseloads continue to hinder rehabilitation and decent conditions.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant rise in self-harm and high levels of prisoner-on-prisoner and staff assaults.
Pervasive issue of illicit items entering the prison, including by drone, creating risks.
Breakdown of the prisoner complaints process for much of the year, leading to frustration.
Poor physical state and decency levels of older wings, with prolonged maintenance delays.
Suspension of education and purposeful activity for three months due to staff shortages.
High caseloads for prison offender managers, impacting prisoner progression.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Durham

Published 10 Apr 2025 · 974 prisoners

Self-harm: 798 Assaults: 409 Staff assaults: 108

AI-generated report summary HMP Durham, a Category B reception and resettlement prison, faced significant challenges in the reporting year ending October 2024. The prison, operating at 98.9% of its operational capacity with 974 prisoners, saw a concerning decline in safety, marked by substantial increases in self-harm (34%), assaults (52%), and use of force (76%). Overcrowding and a deteriorating estate were persistent issues, alongside critical failures in healthcare provision, an inconsistent regime, and poor engagement in education, leading to an overall reduction in prisoners feeling safe.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant increases in self-harm (34%), assaults (52%), and use of force (76%), indicating a decline in safety.
Persistent overcrowding, with 90% of cells double-occupied, and unsatisfactory internal fabric, including damp, mould, and stalled refurbishment of A Wing.
Deterioration in prisoners' feeling of safety, with 80% reporting feeling safe (down from 92%), alongside a 50.5% increase in drug finds and concerns about Spice and homemade drugs.
Major issues in healthcare provision, including 14% of new arrivals missing first-night assessments, poor secondary screening, high "did not attend" rates, and a lack of cooperation between healthcare and operational teams.
Inconsistent regime delivery with no improvement in time out of cell, poor attendance in education, and lack of motivation among remand prisoners for activities.
Ongoing concerns about the quality and completion of ACCT documents (78% with omissions) and the prison being designated a cluster death site multiple times.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Foston Hall

Published 4 Apr 2025 · 292 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,423 Assaults: 136 Staff assaults: 84

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Foston Hall is deemed a reasonably safe prison for women, with a significant decrease in self-harm incidents and an increase in its operational capacity. However, the report highlights critical concerns including a notable rise in prisoner-on-prisoner violence, increased illicit items entering the prison, and systemic issues with delayed mental health transfers to secure hospitals. Problems with accommodation, the prisoner application system, property access, and persistent missed healthcare appointments continue to impact prisoner welfare, despite positive efforts in regime maintenance and staff-prisoner interactions.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Prisoners with complex and severe mental health needs remain too long at HMP Foston Hall due to delayed transfers to secure hospitals.
A significant rise in remand, short-sentence, and recalled prisoners has led to an increase in drugs and illicit items, causing debt, bullying, and violence.
The accommodation in the CSU and D wing remains inadequate, lacking funding for improvements.
Without a body scanner at reception, staff are hampered from detecting concealed drugs, compromising safety.
The rise in prisoner-on-prisoner violence is a significant concern.
Problems persist with the prisoner application system, with responses often late or not received.
Prisoners experience considerable difficulties and lengthy delays in accessing their property.
Lack of shelter for prisoners queuing at the medication dispensing hatch in all weathers.
Missed internal healthcare appointments remain significantly high.
No social care 'buddies' for prisoners with care needs.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Haverigg

Published 2 Apr 2025 · 483 prisoners

Self-harm: 11 Assaults: 6

AI-generated report summary HMP Haverigg, a Category D open prison for men, maintained low levels of self-harm and violence, with two deaths in custody. The Board commended efforts to improve facilities and provide high-standard healthcare for an increasingly elderly and complex population, despite some staff vacancies. Key concerns included challenges for ex-PCoSO prisoners in finding employment, difficulties securing accommodation on release, and prisoners' reluctance to raise complaints due to perceived negative consequences.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The disadvantage faced by ex-PCoSO prisoners in gaining employment upon release due to reluctance from some businesses.
Growing difficulties in securing timely and suitable accommodation for prisoners on release, risking homelessness and reoffending.
The need for improved support services for an increasing number of very frail elderly prisoners with complex physical, mental, and social care needs.
Concerns around prisoners’ unwillingness or reported reluctance to raise legitimate complaints or approach the IMB for support, fearing adverse consequences.
Ongoing issues with the structural integrity of accommodation blocks and delays in completing the Fire Safety Improvement Plan.
Concerns about the quality, quantity, and calorific value of meals.
Prisoners arriving on transfer without prescribed medication due to travel distance.
Mounting concerns from prisoners about changes to individual risk levels affecting progression, ROTL access, and release arrangements.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Forest Bank

Published 27 Mar 2025 · 1,470 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Forest Bank, a Category B reception and resettlement prison operated by Sodexo, faced significant challenges during the reporting year, including an increased churn rate and high operational capacity. While purposeful activity and education standards improved, rates of violence and use of force increased, and there were four deaths in custody. Key concerns include managing complex needs, particularly mental health transfers, addressing staff-prisoner relationships and improving medication dispensing and cleanliness.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Forest Bank continues to operate at capacity, raising questions about future expansion plans and support.
The model for reception prisons, which are under significant pressure, requires review and evaluation.
Staff and prisoner relationships, particularly the delivery and effectiveness of key worker sessions, need attention.
Frequent missed medication dispensing times are impacting prisoners’ health.
Illicit items remain an operational and safety challenge, requiring further investment and support.
The management of prisoners with complex needs, especially regarding timely mental health transfers, continues to be a challenge.
Cleanliness and maintenance issues on accommodation blocks, including out-of-use water coolers and lack of air conditioning, are persistent concerns.
Rates of violence and use of force have increased significantly.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Eastwood Park

Published 21 Mar 2025 · 366 prisoners

Self-harm: 4,204 Staff assaults: 44

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Eastwood Park, a closed local prison for women, faced significant challenges in the reporting year, particularly concerning high levels of self-harm and use of force incidents. While staffing shortages and the concentration of complex prisoners strained the regime, efforts were made to improve healthcare, purposeful activity, and resettlement support. The Board highlighted concerns regarding mental health transfers, estate development, and the overall impact of managing complex individuals on staff and the general prison population.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Deeply concerning levels of self-harm, with Eastwood Park accounting for 38% of all prolific incidents in the women’s estate.
1039 use of force incidents, double the number from the previous year, with a small number of troubled prisoners being a key factor.
Long delays for transfers to mental health units and inadequate provision for women with multifaceted social care needs.
Under-used activity workshops that are not operating as originally intended.
The significant adverse pressure on the regime and staff due to the concentration of individuals who prolifically self-harm in a single prison.
Unfinalised proposals for replacing residential unit 7, which remains unoccupied due to fire safety concerns.
Prisoners experiencing lengthy journeys to court due to the delayed operationalisation of a video conferencing centre.
The impact of staff compassion burnout, injuries, and attacks on staff morale and goodwill.
The running of the prison is negatively impacted by low staffing levels and a high number of inexperienced staff.
Gaps in provision for programmes addressing offending behaviour.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Wayland

Published 13 Mar 2025 · 1,000 prisoners

AI-generated report summary The IMB's latest survey at HMP Wayland shows a generally positive shift across many areas, including improved induction experiences, property handling, and healthcare complaint responses. However, significant challenges persist, particularly concerning staff's ability to provide effective support for personal issues and loneliness, which has worsened. Concerns also remain regarding cell decency, the pervasive availability of drugs, inadequate resettlement preparation, and the perceived unfairness of the complaints system, indicating much work is still needed.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Staff are unable to effectively help prisoners with personal problems, and the ability to respond to loneliness has seen a catastrophic drop.
Cell cleanliness and adequate equipping remain an unacceptable issue, with over half of respondents reporting unclean cells on arrival.
The easy availability of drugs and hooch significantly compromises prisoner safety and rehabilitation efforts.
Most prisoners (80%) feel they are not being helped by staff for life after release, and many struggle with literacy without adequate support.
The complaints system is perceived as unfair by 79% of prisoners, and both Prisoner Forums and regime communications are largely considered ineffective.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Dungavel House

Published 11 Mar 2025 · 103 prisoners

Self-harm: 4

AI-generated report summary Dungavel House IRC maintained a safe and humane environment in 2023, with good staff-resident relationships, comprehensive healthcare, and a relaxed regime. Despite these positives, concerns persist regarding persistent roof access issues and the impact of frequent late-night arrivals from Edinburgh Airport on detainees. The IMB also highlighted its own significant challenges in recruiting members.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Incidents of residents climbing on to the roof remain an occurrence, despite previous recommendations for preventative measures.
Detainees frequently experience late-night arrivals from Edinburgh airport, sometimes being returned the next morning due to lack of suitable overnight accommodation, raising concerns about night movements.
One resident was able to escape from Dungavel during the year.
The IMB itself faced significant difficulties in recruiting and retaining members, affecting its ability to fully monitor the centre.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Dovegate

Published 4 Mar 2025 · 1,160 prisoners

Self-harm: 814

AI-generated report summary HMP Dovegate, a privately run Category B training prison for men aged 21 and over, operated at or near its 1160 operational capacity during the reporting year. The Board observed generally calm wings with good staff-prisoner relationships and commended improvements in education. Key concerns include three deaths in custody, long healthcare and mental health transfer waiting times, persistent issues with lost property during transfers, and regime restrictions due to tight staffing levels exacerbated by a more complex prisoner population.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Three deaths in custody occurred during the reporting year, one apparently self-inflicted.
There is an increasing number of prisoners with complex issues, many from outside the local area, which combined with national prison population pressure, has changed the demographics and can cause conflict.
Long waiting times for healthcare appointments and cancellations are a significant issue for prisoners.
Prisoners with serious mental health issues face lengthy waits for transfer to secure mental health units, leading to deterioration and violent behaviour.
Property lost during transfers between establishments remains a major, repeated concern, despite computerisation improvements.
Tight staffing levels have resulted in regimes being cut back, restricting time out of cell and activities.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Maidstone

Published 27 Feb 2025 · 599 prisoners

Self-harm: 84 Assaults: 63 Staff assaults: 40

AI-generated report summary HMP Maidstone generally operates as a safe and humane Category C foreign national prison, with improvements noted in reception processes, ACCT care, and analysis of violent incidents. The Board commended staff care in healthcare and overall good relationships, but raised significant concerns regarding the prevalence of illicit substances, the limited purposeful activity and lack of ROTL, and delays in mental health transfers due to national bed shortages. Improvements are needed in staffing for UoF oversight, translation services, and collaboration with immigration authorities.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The continued prevalence of illicit substances and items entering the prison, exacerbated by a lack of external CCTV and gate searches.
Insufficient provision of meaningful and purposeful activity, soft skills opportunities, and the absence of a Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) facility.
National delays in transferring prisoners with acute mental health needs to secure beds, resulting in extended stays in the Care and Separation Unit.
Challenges in communication and collaboration with Home Office Immigration Enforcement (HOIE), causing anxiety for prisoners regarding their immigration status and release.
A shortage of officers trained to quality assure Use of Force incidents, leading to delays in their proper scrutiny.
The ongoing need for improved translation services for foreign national prisoners to understand official documentation.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Ford

Published 25 Feb 2025 · 343 prisoners

Self-harm: 0 Assaults: 1

AI-generated report summary HMP Ford, a Category D open prison, generally provides a safe and humane environment, with commendable improvements in induction processes, security measures, and a strong focus on rehabilitation through education and employment. However, the Board remains concerned about the failing building infrastructure, including critical boiler issues, inadequate phone provision, and persistent delays from probation services impacting prisoner progression and resettlement. The ongoing delay in the prison expansion project and budget cuts to vocational training are also significant concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The inadequate phone provision continues to be an issue, impacting communication between prisoners and their families.
The building infrastructure across Ford is failing, with a constant cycle of electrical issues, unacceptable internal drain conditions, and broken hot water systems, which poses a health and safety risk.
The delayed prison expansion project is now not anticipated to be completed until 2029, following two main contractors going into administration.
Budget for critical rehabilitation activities, specifically the Chichester College School of Construction, has been cut by 50% for the 2025 financial year.
Delays in responses from Community Offender Managers (COMs) within the Probation Service are a major source of frustration for prisoners and staff, impacting ROTL and release planning.
The Board reiterates that Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentences are inhumane and should be removed from existing prisoners.
The low rates of pay in Engineering and Land Based Activities are a source of discontent for prisoners.
The lack of purpose-designed rooms for prisoners with disabilities and the still unconnected disability alarm system in some pods are concerning.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Werrington

Published 21 Feb 2025 · 83 prisoners

Self-harm: 136 Assaults: 154 Staff assaults: 150

AI-generated report summary HMYOI Werrington's report for 2023-2024 highlights ongoing challenges with violence, inadequate education, and poor time out of room, despite some improvements in conflict resolution and healthcare provision. Staffing shortages in social care and difficulties in monitoring segregation contribute to key concerns. The Board raises several recommendations to the Minister, Youth Custody Service, Local Authority, and Governor to address these issues and improve conditions for young people.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The general level and severity of violence, including fights and assaults, remain a significant concern.
Educational provision is wholly inadequate due to restricted regime, violence, 'keep-aparts', and contractual issues.
The inhumane accommodation of young people, legally children, far from family due to YOI Cookham Wood's closure, is a serious issue.
Time out of room continues to be poor, especially at weekends, falling below pre-pandemic levels.
Staffing levels in social care are low, impacting workload and support for vulnerable young adults.
Monitoring of Rule 49 reviews by the IMB is hindered by infrequent submission of paperwork.
The number of young people self-isolating has increased due to fear of others' behaviour and getting into trouble.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Doncaster

Published 19 Feb 2025 · 1,128 prisoners

Self-harm: 831

AI-generated report summary The Independent Monitoring Board at HMP Doncaster reports a generally fair and humane treatment of prisoners, with good staff-prisoner relationships and improved education attendance. However, the prison faces significant challenges, primarily due to severe overcrowding and population pressures, leading to inhumane double occupancy of cells and restricted regimes. Key concerns include extended waits for mental health transfers, a problematic reception and induction process, and insufficient community support for released prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Population pressures affecting reception and induction processes.
Overcrowding and double occupancy of single cells.
Extended waits for mental health transfers to secure hospitals.
Difficulties with resettlement for out-of-area prisoners, leading to releases as 'no fixed abode'.
Lack of adequate probation and community support for released prisoners.
Cell bells not being answered quickly enough.
Insufficient support and progression for IPP prisoners.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

The Verne

Published 18 Feb 2025 · 605 prisoners

Self-harm: 140 Assaults: 12

AI-generated report summary HMP The Verne is a Category C training prison for sex offenders, holding 605 prisoners with an operational capacity of 608. The IMB noted generally good staff-prisoner relationships and effective healthcare, but raised significant concerns about the deplorable state of the healthcare building and kitchen roof. Key issues also include the barely functioning key worker scheme, a backlog in OASys assessments, and increased bullying linked to the prison's more moderate regime.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The key worker scheme is barely functioning, with a compliance rate of just 11.5% for sessions allocated.
The healthcare building is in a deplorable state, urgently needing temporary and long-term new accommodation.
The kitchen roof is in a very poor state, with rainwater leaking through, causing extensive mould and peeling paint.
The absence of an end-of-life care facility is a concern, especially given the elderly population and associated burden of bed-watches on staff.
Need to expedite the introduction of a sex offence programme at The Verne, as many prisoners are released without completing one.
The Offender Management Unit remains understaffed, leading to significant backlogs in OASys assessments and reviews.
The more moderate regime and free association have led to increased bullying, coercive behaviour, and grooming of vulnerable prisoners.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Wakefield

Published 12 Feb 2025 · 740 prisoners

Self-harm: 665 Assaults: 136 Staff assaults: 136

AI-generated report summary HMP Wakefield, a high-security prison for around 740 men, saw a significant increase in assaults and self-harm during the reporting year, leading the Board to deem it 'less safe'. Key concerns include persistent delays in mental health transfers, a reduction in experienced staff, and urgent needs for infrastructure upgrades. Despite these challenges, healthcare provision is improving, and the education department is praised for its ambitious curriculum and positive prisoner engagement.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The prison is deemed 'less safe' than previous years due to a significant increase in prisoner-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-staff assaults.
Serious concerns regarding delays in mental health transfers to secure hospitals for prisoners in urgent need of treatment.
Ongoing staffing issues, including a reduction in experienced officers, use of detached duty, and unfulfilled key worker sessions impacting prisoner support.
Urgent need for improvement in the physical security and aging infrastructure of the prison, which also impacts humane living standards and access to full regimes for those with mobility issues.
Persistent issues with purposeful activity, with too many prisoners not engaged in education or work opportunities, compounded by limited higher-level and IT-specific education.
Lack of progress in addressing repeated concerns, such as the astroturf pitch and timely property delivery.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Brixton

Published 10 Feb 2025 · 749 prisoners

Self-harm: 351 Assaults: 301 Staff assaults: 100

AI-generated report summary HMP Brixton continues to face severe challenges, primarily driven by overcrowding and the transfer of prisoners with complex needs and insufficient sentence time for effective resettlement. Key issues include unacceptable living conditions, an inconsistent regime offering limited purposeful activity, and pervasive illicit items like drugs and weapons contributing to high levels of self-harm and violence. While healthcare provision is generally satisfactory, and efforts are made in vocational training, significant shortfalls in education and the poor performance of outsourced services undermine rehabilitation efforts.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The prison's inability to appropriately manage prisoner transfers, receiving men with complex needs and insufficient sentence time for resettlement, exacerbated by population pressures.
Unacceptable living conditions, including overcrowding (men sharing single cells), erratic decency checks, and chronic shortages of bedding, clothing, and furniture.
Inconsistent and poor regime, especially on B wing, leading to prolonged time in cells and lack of purposeful activity for men awaiting induction.
Pervasive availability of illicit items such as drugs, phones, and improvised weapons, contributing to self-harm, violence, and debt-related self-isolation.
Inadequate education, skills, and work training provision, with significant induction backlogs and unmet learning needs in English and maths, contributing to boredom.
Poor performance of subcontracted services (e.g., maintenance, vermin control, washing machines, cell bells, CCTV) affecting safety, decency, and regime.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Wormwood Scrubs

Published 7 Feb 2025 · 1,253 prisoners

Self-harm: 323 Staff assaults: 120

AI-generated report summary HMP Wormwood Scrubs faced significant challenges during the reporting year, including an increased population running near operational capacity and a sustained upward trend in violence and self-harm incidents towards the end of the period. While some progress was made in healthcare and education, these gains were frequently undermined by critical staffing shortages leading to cancelled activities and appointments. Outdated infrastructure and the ongoing availability of illicit substances remained persistent issues, severely impacting safety, conditions, and the humane treatment of prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Levels of availability of illicit substances in the prison, reflected in high positive drug tests.
Inconsistent wearing of body worn video cameras by prison officers for use of force incidents.
Impact of outdated buildings and critical infrastructure breakdowns (cell bells, lifts) on fair treatment and safety.
Prisoners with complex mental health issues remaining in the CSU due to lack of space in the healthcare unit.
Unacceptable number of routine healthcare appointments and therapeutic sessions cancelled due to lack of prison officer availability.
Long waiting times for assessment and transfer to external secure mental health facilities.
Inconsistent and limited time out of cell for prisoners, with many spending 22 or more hours locked in cells.
Marked increase in complaints about lost property, despite new policy framework.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Feltham

Published 6 Feb 2025 · 582 prisoners

Staff assaults: 147

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Feltham faces significant challenges, particularly high staff absence severely impacting regime delivery and time out of cell for both young people and adults. The physical environment is in a poor state, with persistent issues like leaking roofs and mould, alongside a worrying increase in violence, including staff assaults on Feltham B, and a rise in contraband finds. While healthcare provision is generally good and staff are commended for their dedication, the lack of purposeful activity, effective key worker sessions, and the closure of the Enhanced Support Unit hinder rehabilitation and overall prisoner wellbeing.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

High staff absence significantly impacts regime delivery and time out of room for children and adults.
Persistent violence, including prisoner-on-prisoner assaults and a worrying increase in staff assaults on Feltham B.
The poor state of the built environment, including leaking roofs, damp, and mould, remains unaddressed despite previous reports.
Insufficient purposeful activity, education, and vocational training provision, particularly for the older age group on Feltham B.
Significant impact of non-associations ("keep-aparts") and gang-related issues on safety, regime, and opportunities for young people.
Rise in contraband finds, including drugs and mobile phones, with obvious smell of cannabis on units.
Closure of the Enhanced Support Unit (ESU) on Feltham A, depriving the prison of an important resource for complex needs.
Lack of key worker sessions limits support and guidance for prisoners, impacting staff-prisoner relations.
Issues with food provision, including inconsistent servery cleanliness, lack of PPE, and substantial amounts of food going missing.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

New Hall

Published 5 Feb 2025 · 365 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,032 Assaults: 133 Staff assaults: 110

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI New Hall, a closed category prison for women, held 365 residents against an operational capacity of 381. The Board noted positive developments in reception, staff-prisoner relationships, and the introduction of a drug recovery wing. However, significant concerns persist regarding the inadequate funding and suitability of the prison environment for women with complex mental health needs, leading to unacceptable delays in transfers to secure units. There was also a notable increase in healthcare-related applications to the IMB and issues impacting access to Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL).

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The process of transferring prisoners with mental health issues to secure units is too slow.
Higher levels of funding are required to meet the complex and severe mental health needs of the women.
The prison is increasingly being used inappropriately as a place of safety for women with severe mental health conditions.
Prison is not an appropriate environment for women with severe mental health issues, with assessments and transfers to secure mental health establishments not prompt enough.
There was a significant 61% increase in healthcare-related applications to the IMB, particularly concerning prescribing issues.
The use of the vacant 'Larch' plot, previously identified as a concern, remains undecided.
The shared Governor arrangements and clustering with HMP Askham Grange negatively impact New Hall prisoners' access to Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL).

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Channings Wood

Published 31 Jan 2025 · 723 prisoners

Self-harm: 533 Assaults: 141 Staff assaults: 12

AI-generated report summary HMP Channings Wood has navigated a challenging year following the closure of HMP Dartmoor, resulting in significant population changes and regime disruptions. While staff resilience and a downward trend in self-harm and assaults are positive, the prison faces persistent issues with property loss, inadequate infrastructure maintenance, and delays in access to purposeful activity. Concerns also remain regarding the care of an expanding ageing population and the plight of IPP prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The disruptive effects of the HMP Dartmoor closure, including changes to the estate, redistribution of work roles, and pressure on activities and resettlement, have created a very challenging period.
The persistent backlog in repairs to roofing, heating systems, and work-related equipment continues to adversely affect decency and purposeful activity.
Missing property, especially on transfer, remains a significant and unresolved issue, causing distress and undermining trust.
The long-term segregation of a prisoner on a 'dirty protest' highlights the lack of alternative solutions for managing challenging behaviour.
Excessive waiting times for opticians and psychologists, particularly for VP group sessions (38 weeks), indicate gaps in healthcare provision.
The absence of a national strategy for an expanding ageing prisoner population means local initiatives are insufficient to adequately meet needs, leading to unacceptable social care provision.
Prisoners serving IPP sentences experience hopelessness, frustration, and poor mental health due to difficulties in progression and the lack of a resentencing exercise.
Purposeful activity is undermined by instructor shortages and ageing, prone-to-failure infrastructure, preventing the 75% participation target from being met.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Cardiff

Published 29 Jan 2025 · 774 prisoners

Self-harm: 595 Assaults: 135 Staff assaults: 36

AI-generated report summary HMP Cardiff, a Category B local training prison, maintained a 'Good' HMIP rating despite significant population pressures, with the IMB noting positive staff-prisoner relationships and cell refurbishment efforts. However, the Board expressed serious concerns over rising self-harm, violence, and use of force incidents, alongside persistent overcrowding leading to inhumane eating conditions. Key challenges included inadequate mental health staffing at weekends, a doubling of medication complaints, and poor key worker scheme delivery.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant increases in self-harm (63%), violence (57%), and use of force (68%) incidents.
Persistent overcrowding and unacceptable living conditions, including prisoners eating in shared cells with integral toilets, and issues with heating, hot water, and vermin.
Doubling of medication/prescription complaints, insufficient weekend mental health team cover, and delays in the health needs analysis.
Inconsistent delivery of the key worker scheme (11.08% compliance) and underrepresentation of ethnic minority staff.
Concerns over resettlement planning, specifically for accommodation and employment on release, and the unsuitability of premises for disabled prisoners.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Fosse Way

Published 28 Jan 2025 · 1,715 prisoners

Self-harm: 425 Assaults: 159 Staff assaults: 35

AI-generated report summary HMP Fosse Way opened in May 2023 as a category C prison and quickly reached its operational capacity of 1715 prisoners by February 2024. The IMB's first annual report highlights significant building design flaws, including inadequate facilities and security concerns, alongside staffing shortages and regime limitations. Despite successful integration of vulnerable prisoners, the rapid population increase led to a rise in self-harm and violent incidents, coupled with insufficient purposeful activity and education provision.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The gymnasium, designed for 15 prisoners, is inadequate for a population of 1720, requiring conversion of workshops.
There is no central laundry facility for large items, leading to costly transport to another prison.
Domestic-standard washing machines and other electrical items on house blocks frequently require repair and have a limited lifespan.
There is a significant shortage of office space, with some staff working in cupboards and the IMB office located outside the secure zone.
On-site healthcare ceases at 7pm, with no residential unit, forcing prisoners with severe mental health needs or requiring palliative/24-hour care to be accommodated on wings or in the CSU.
The library's location is poor, leading to congestion and noise, which hinders studying prisoners.
Cell window design is flawed, leading to deliberate damage and security risks, as ground floor windows lack bars.
Cell furniture made of MDF is easily damaged, necessitating frequent repairs and rendering cells uninhabitable.
The Care and Separation Unit (CSU) has insufficient cells for the prison's population, with additional cells on G block converted to meet demand.
Perimeter fencing around house block yards lacks razor wire, creating a security risk through climbing.
Ongoing staff retention issues and inexperience are impacting the regime and increasing pressure on staff.
Employment opportunities and education places are insufficient for the prisoner population.
The Offender Management Unit (OMU) is understaffed, creating a backlog of offender assessments (OASys) for category reviews.
Self-harm and violence incidents have increased with the rise in prisoner numbers.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Elmley

Published 21 Jan 2025 · 1,043 prisoners

Self-harm: 580 Assaults: 245 Staff assaults: 137

AI-generated report summary HMP Elmley faces significant challenges, notably an "intolerable" fire safety risk in House Block 5 and generally deteriorating accommodation. While healthcare and equality initiatives show improvement, safety remains a concern with increased self-harm and use of force incidents, exacerbated by poor key working and inconsistent reception processes. Education attendance is low, and there's a need for more purposeful activity.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

House block 5 poses an intolerable fire safety risk, with a high likelihood of fire and extreme consequences for life safety, requiring urgent action.
The quality of accommodation continues to deteriorate, with dirty/broken showers, insect infestations, heating breakdowns, and inadequate maintenance.
Inconsistent reception and induction processes for new prisoners lead to kit shortages and difficulties with phone access.
Self-harm incidents have risen significantly, and use of force incidents have increased, with black prisoners disproportionately affected, while independent scrutiny of UoF and DIRFs is lacking.
The key working scheme is insufficiently developed, with low attendance rates, and the cessation of the Listener scheme compromises safer custody efforts.
Education attendance is unacceptably low despite good teaching quality, and there are limited opportunities for purposeful work-based training or using prisoner labour to improve the prison environment.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Aylesbury

Published 15 Jan 2025 · 401 prisoners

Self-harm: 353

AI-generated report summary HMP Aylesbury, a Category C prison, completed its transformation from a YOI this year, adapting to an older population with improved but still sub-standard regime delivery. Significant efforts were made to enhance safety, reduce gang violence, and manage illicit items, though their incursion remains a serious problem. While staffing levels improved, staff inexperience and a lack of purposeful activity remain key challenges impacting prisoner wellbeing, progression, and resettlement, as evidenced by long waiting times for healthcare and inadequate release preparation.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The persistent incursion of illicit items, including dangerous drugs, leading to debt, bullying, and health issues.
Insufficient and uninspiring purposeful activity that falls below Category C standards and does not prepare prisoners for release.
Inadequate preparation for release for prisoners leaving directly from Aylesbury, risking reoffending and public safety.
A deleterious imbalance between experienced and inexperienced staff, impacting induction quality, prisoner support, and potentially increasing use of force incidents.
Long waiting times for GP (3 weeks) and dental (13 weeks) appointments, leading to prisoner complaints.
Overstretched Offender Management Unit staff due to significant vacancies, hindering sentence planning and progression.
Inadequate provision of secure hospital beds for prisoners with severe mental illness, placing undue pressure on prison staff.
Disproportionate representation of Black and Muslim prisoners in adjudications, with lower rates of dismissals, suggesting potential inappropriate use of the disciplinary process.
Frequent loss or misplacement of prisoner property, particularly during transfers.
The age and layout of the prison building, including unreliable heating and inadequate adaptations for disabled prisoners.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Littlehey

Published 14 Jan 2025 · 1,225 prisoners

Assaults: 79 Staff assaults: 19

AI-generated report summary HMP Littlehey, a Category C training prison for sex offenders, generally maintained a safe and humane environment with positive developments like a new wing and in-cell phones. Despite commendations for healthcare and resettlement efforts, the IMB remains critically understaffed, hindering its monitoring capacity. Key challenges include persistent cell sharing, poor property transfer management, healthcare resource deficits, and inadequate educational provision, many of which are repeated concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The critically low number of IMB members (three against an establishment of 16) and the inadequate recruitment process, significantly hindering the Board's statutory duties.
Persistent issues with cell sharing in unsuitable conditions and the estate-wide poor management of prisoner property on transfer, both noted as repeated concerns from previous reports.
The absence of IT systems for managing internal complaints, contributing to a high volume of paper-based complaints and a significant staff workload.
Continued concerns regarding healthcare provision, including the lack of 24-hour on-site services, insufficient resources, weak governance in medicines management, and long waiting times for physiotherapy, podiatry, and optician appointments.
Inadequate funding for the repair and replacement of gym equipment, along with the unresolved issue of a leaking workshop roof, affecting purposeful activity and the estate.
Insufficient provision of English, maths, and ESOL education, coupled with the absence of a comprehensive reading strategy, highlighted by an Ofsted inspection.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Wetherby

Published 10 Jan 2025 · 150 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,163 Staff assaults: 24

AI-generated report summary The IMB report for HMYOI Wetherby covers a year of accelerated change and leadership transition. The Board acknowledges some improvements, particularly in staff morale, healthcare provision, and initial efforts to improve the regime. However, significant concerns persist regarding violence, limited time out of cell, and a disappointing education provision. Staffing issues, including redeployment of specialist teams and high sickness, also remain a challenge alongside ongoing concerns about support for vulnerable young people.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent violence and the presence of improvised weapons, leading to staff and young people sustaining injuries during restraints.
An unpredictable and limited regime, poor communication, and inadequate time out of cell, especially for separated young people.
Significant shortfalls in education provision due to recruitment/retention issues, substantial lost hours, and lack of access to teaching staff for young people.
Inadequate support for vulnerable young people, including those serving long sentences, looked-after children, and remanded young people who cannot access interventions.
Staffing challenges such as the frequent redeployment of specialist intervention teams (e.g., Conflict Resolution, MMPR, CuSP), high sickness rates, and concerns about staff mental health and support.
Continuing issues with estate maintenance, including areas in urgent need of refurbishment (e.g., Keppel, healthcare department) and unsuitable, grim rooms on Benbow.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Bullingdon

Published 9 Jan 2025 · 902 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Bullingdon, a local Category B prison, faces persistent challenges including chronic overcrowding, high prisoner turnover, and significant staff shortages impacting safety and regime delivery. Violence and self-harm remain high, and a substantial number of prisoners are released homeless. While healthcare provision is generally good and peer support schemes are positive, dilapidated facilities, food quality issues, and reduced key working sessions are ongoing concerns for the Board.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Chronic overcrowding and high prisoner turnover hinder rehabilitation efforts.
Significant staff shortages and high turnover negatively impact almost every aspect of the prison.
The prison remains a violent and unsafe environment for both prisoners and staff, with self-harm and assaults remaining high.
Many cells designed for single occupancy are occupied by two prisoners, and much of the prison shows signs of dilapidation.
Issues persist with the quality and quantity of food, and defective kitchen/servery equipment needs repair or replacement.
A great deal of prisoner property continues to go missing during transfers and within the prison.
A large number of prisoners are released homeless and are subsequently recalled to prison within a short period.
There has been a significant decrease in key working sessions.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Hewell

Published 8 Jan 2025 · 1,033 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,033 Assaults: 302 Staff assaults: 173

AI-generated report summary HMP Hewell, a local Category B prison, faced significant challenges in the reporting year, including persistent crowding and a high remand population. Despite these pressures, the IMB noted dedicated efforts by staff to maintain a safe and humane regime, introducing positive initiatives like 'here to help' mentors and a prison council. Key concerns remain around increased self-harm and violence, the lack of IT for prisoners, and inadequate mental health and family contact provisions, many of which are recurrent issues.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent court backlogs leading to increased and prolonged remand populations.
Significant increase in self-harm and violence incidents, exacerbated by crowding and cell sharing.
Lack of adequate mental health services and suitable environments for unwell prisoners.
The outdated prison estate, including critical equipment past its design life and lift outages impacting vulnerable prisoners.
Absence of IT systems for prisoners, leading to inefficiencies and reduced skill development.
The abandonment of key working due to population pressures and staffing challenges.
Inadequate family contact provisions, including insufficient social visit sessions and the lack of a child contact room and basic visitor refreshments.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Hatfield

Published 19 Dec 2024

Self-harm: 0 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP Hatfield maintains a high standard as a Category D prison, with a focus on safety, positive staff-prisoner relationships, and excellent resettlement outcomes, including high employment rates post-release. Key concerns persist regarding the impact of wider prison population pressures, maintenance discrepancies at the Lakes site, and delays in estate improvements like the multi-faith centre. The Board notes a recurring issue with prisoners' reluctance to apply to the IMB due to fears of being returned to closed conditions.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The impact of prison population pressures on Category D prisons and their resettlement programmes.
Prioritisation of maintenance work at Hatfield Lakes site due to management by an adjoining prison.
Discrepancies in available accommodation quality within the prison, particularly concerning refurbishment at the Lakes.
Potential difficulty in continuing staff initiatives due to increased prison population changes.
Ongoing need for continuation of bathroom facilities refurbishment, particularly at the Lakes where some ablutions are not fit for use.
Ongoing completion of the new 'anti-dash' fence to improve security against illicit items.
Delay in the commencement of the new multi-faith centre until 2025.
Prisoners' reluctance to make applications to the IMB and a pervasive belief that complaints or DIRFs lead to return to closed conditions, despite data showing no correlation.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Scotland and Northern Ireland Short-Term Holding Facilities (STHF)

Published 18 Dec 2024 · 2,083 prisoners

Self-harm: 0 Assaults: 1 Staff assaults: 1

AI-generated report summary This report highlights significant shortcomings in the Short-term Holding Facilities (STHFs) in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Key issues include a failure to separate men and women at Larne House, inadequate accommodation, and inconsistent healthcare provision often leading to the removal of essential medication. Detainees frequently face unnecessarily long stays due to systemic inefficiencies, coupled with a lack of transparency and accessibility challenges across the estate.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Men and women remained detained together at Larne House, despite previous recommendations and Home Office acceptance, indicating a failure in safety culture.
Accommodation at airport and reporting centre holding rooms is unsuitable, lacking natural light, ventilation, privacy, and adequate sleeping facilities.
Healthcare provision is inconsistent and varies by location, with serious risks posed by the continued removal of prescription medication from detainees.
Detainees are held for longer than necessary due to systemic inefficiencies in organising asylum accommodation and transfers.
Facilities are not fully accessible for wheelchair users or individuals with sensory/non-visible disabilities.
The Home Office lacks transparency in publishing performance metrics, internal assurance, and contract monitoring activities.
Late-night moves involving families and children, particularly via taxis, raise concerns about potential medical emergencies.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Bure

Published 17 Dec 2024 · 641 prisoners

Self-harm: 167 Assaults: 56 Staff assaults: 18

AI-generated report summary HMP Bure is a Category C prison for men convicted of sexual offenses, housing 641 prisoners with an operational capacity of 643. The IMB found it to be a generally calm and safe environment with good staff-prisoner relationships and well-supported elderly prisoners. Key concerns include the lack of work and purposeful activity opportunities for the current population, the need for IPP re-sentencing, and insufficient funding for resettlement services. The Board also noted an increase in self-harm incidents and issues with archaic adjudication recording.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The ongoing issue of re-sentencing IPP prisoners, many held beyond their tariffs, with previous responses deemed inadequate.
The absence of a national minimum wage for prisoners, leading to disparities in pay versus canteen costs.
Insufficient work and activity opportunities for the existing prisoner population, with concerns about further increases in numbers without corresponding provision.
The lack of additional funding for the Prison Employment Lead despite Bure performing resettlement functions, unlike designated resettlement prisons.
The absence of CCTV in the prison, contributing to some prisoners feeling unsafe.
The archaic, longhand recording method for adjudications, hindering Governor observation and communication, and the need for audio/visual recording.
An observed increase in self-harm incidents that requires investigation by the prison.
Continued underuse of education and workshop classes due to conflicting healthcare appointments and activities.
Prisoner confusion regarding property rules, particularly for items like Xboxes, requiring clearer communication on reception.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Whatton

Published 13 Dec 2024 · 849 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Whatton, a Category C training prison for sex offenders, had an average population of 849 during the reporting year. The Board observed generally positive prisoner-staff relationships, improvements in healthcare staffing, and good access to purposeful activity with 758 workspaces. However, key concerns include the unsuitability of B wing accommodation, long waits for specialist courses, the disproportionate number of IPP prisoners, and challenges in securing employment for sex offenders post-release.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The disproportionate number of IPP prisoners at Whatton and the lack of policy review to support their wellbeing and morale.
The inadequacy and delayed improvements of B wing accommodation, which is not fit for purpose with issues in size, ventilation, heating, and in-cell toilets.
Long waiting lists and delays for prisoners to access specialist courses, potentially impacting their release dates.
The difficulty in finding suitable employment placements for prisoners convicted of sexual offences upon release, leading to low employment rates.
The practice of gathering visitors outside the security area and allowing entry as a group, which may not offer the full amount of time for the actual visit with the prisoner.
The excessive detention of prisoners with severe mental health problems in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU) while awaiting transfer to specialist facilities, with one case noted at 80 days.
The old and concerning fabric of healthcare facilities, particularly the narrow corridors causing issues for medicine collection queues.
Staffing shortages in offender management, with only three case workers handling 200 cases when eight are typically required.
Limited awareness among prisoners of how their allocated activities align with their long-term goals.
A large percentage of applications from prisoners relating to property lost or not arriving during transfers.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Kirkham

Published 12 Dec 2024 · 696 prisoners

Self-harm: 5 Assaults: 10 Staff assaults: 2

AI-generated report summary HMP Kirkham faced unprecedented challenges in 2023, primarily due to the Temporary Presumptive Recategorisation Scheme (TPRS) which led to a significant influx of prisoners and placed immense pressure on staff, resources, and the prison's resettlement-focused regime. While the Board noted staff's resilience and improvements in some areas like healthcare waiting times and new facilities, key concerns included increased assaults, persistent illicit substance issues, and significant disruption to purposeful activities and resettlement services. Staffing shortages exacerbated these problems, leading to curtailment of activities and impacting crucial offender management processes.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Prisoner-on-prisoner assaults increased during the reporting year.
Large numbers of prisoners were returned to closed conditions, including from the TPRS scheme.
Ongoing issues with illicit substances persisted despite enhanced security measures.
The Temporary Presumptive Recategorisation Scheme (TPRS) severely impacted the regime, resettlement services, and staff capacity.
Purposeful activities and access to education were curtailed due to low staff numbers and redeployments.
Prisoners expressed concerns about sentence progression and lack of communication.
Issues with building maintenance, including heating, hot water, and the need to remove unused buildings for safety.
Lack of in-cell telephony prevented confidential prisoner conversations.
Workload on the Offender Management Unit (OMU) from TPRS and ROTL processes hindered progression.
A number of prisoners were released without settled accommodation for the first time, often due to minimal resettlement planning for TPRS arrivals.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Birmingham

Published 11 Dec 2024 · 988 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Birmingham, a busy local reception prison, has made significant progress in safety and decency since 2018, attributed to strong leadership, though future leadership stability is a key concern. The Board highlights issues with poor prison fabric, high use of force, and persistent self-harm and violence. Concerns include inhumane cell sharing due to a lack of single cells, long remand times, inadequate kit provision, and staffing problems in healthcare and key working, despite overall improved staff availability. The report also notes positive developments in neurodiversity support, reduced canteen complaints, and proactive healthcare recruitment.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The Board is very concerned about future leadership and the need for high-calibre leadership to maintain progress.
Poor prison fabric, including leaking roofs, failed heating, broken lifts, and overdue shower refurbishments, significantly impacts prisoner morale and access.
Disproportionate use of force against black and mixed-ethnic prisoners, and generally high use of force compared to comparator prisons, remains a significant concern.
High levels of self-harm and violence persist, and there were five deaths in custody during the reporting year.
A critical shortage of single cells leads to inhumane cell sharing and inadequate time out of cell for many prisoners, posing a safety risk.
Ongoing challenges in securing adequate provision of basic kit (clothes, bedding, towels) for prisoners, particularly in the first night centre.
The Care and Separation Unit (CSU) inappropriately houses vulnerable and neurodiverse prisoners for whom no suitable alternatives exist.
Extreme pressure on secure mental health beds in the region results in long waiting times for transfers and prevents the acceptance of mental health prisoners from other establishments.
Chronic staffing problems in primary care, an over-reliance on agency staff, and severe staff shortages in drug and alcohol treatment teams negatively impact healthcare delivery.
Too many prisoners spend excessive time on remand and many sentenced prisoners remain at HMP Birmingham when they should have progressed to other establishments, hindering rehabilitative work and family relationships.
The prison is failing to meet its target for key working sessions, with only 38% of prisoners receiving weekly sessions on average.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Bristol

Published 10 Dec 2024 · 579 prisoners

Self-harm: 906 Assaults: 211 Staff assaults: 119

AI-generated report summary HMP Bristol has made notable improvements in safety, regime consistency, and purposeful activity during the reporting year, with reductions in deaths in custody, self-harm, and violence. Staffing levels have reached full establishment, contributing to these positive changes. However, significant challenges persist, including severe overcrowding, limited mental health support for the general population, and issues with the physical environment, particularly a lack of in-cell sanitation in one wing. Resettlement support, the prevalence of illicit items, and the need for better IT infrastructure also remain key concerns for the Board.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Overcrowding and the poor physical environment, including the lack of in-cell sanitation on B wing, in the Victorian prison.
Insufficient support for prisoners on release, particularly regarding accommodation and community services, contributing to reoffending and recalls.
Limited mental health services, which primarily focus on the most serious cases, leaving many prisoners without adequate support.
The need for ongoing support for staff retention and regular recruitment to maintain improved staffing levels and prevent future shortfalls.
The absence of essential information technology for prisoners, which hinders online applications, increases frustrations with paper systems, and consumes staff time.
The high prevalence of illicit items contributing to safety issues, debt, self-harm, and violence, requiring additional resources to tackle.
Inconsistent and untimely provision of reports and information to the IMB, which impedes monitoring activities.
Concerns regarding the adequacy of the healthcare contract with Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust in meeting the diverse needs of prisoners.
Key working is currently focused only on high-risk prisoners and is not yet available for the entire prisoner population.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Portland

Published 6 Dec 2024 · 500 prisoners

Self-harm: 759 Assaults: 252

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Portland continued to face significant challenges during the reporting year, primarily due to staff shortages and overcrowding, which impacted regime delivery and the reintroduction of double cells. Violence and self-harm incidents increased substantially, although measures to improve safety and reduce illicit substances showed some positive results. Healthcare staffing improved, but mental health provision and transfers remained a concern, while resettlement efforts were severely strained by poorly implemented early release schemes.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Overcrowding, leading to doubling up in cells designed for one individual, impacts decency and the ability to transfer prisoners for training.
Serious shortcomings in HMPPS management of the poorly planned early release scheme, relying on overworked OMU staff without increased resources.
The Prison Service struggles to attract staff due to uncompetitive remuneration, training, and professional development.
Protracted waits for mental health transfers and inadequate mental health staffing to treat the high caseload.
Poor service from external suppliers, particularly Serco, impacting prisoner transport and transfers.
Inadequate accommodation to segregate different prisoner cohorts appropriately.
Ventilation issues on Beaufort wing during hot weather and the closure of in-house laundry facilities remain unaddressed due to lack of funding.
Key work sessions have not increased for all prisoners due to staffing shortages, limiting relationship building between prisoners and staff.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Chelmsford

Published 5 Dec 2024

Self-harm: 884 Assaults: 195 Staff assaults: 167

AI-generated report summary HMP Chelmsford, a category B local prison, faced significant challenges during the reporting year ending August 2024, particularly with overcrowding affecting 69% of its population and leading to poor conditions in older wings. While the prison saw a reduction in self-harm incidents towards the end of the year and staff were commended for managing gym facilities, use of force incidents increased, and access to healthcare remained a major concern with substantial waiting times. Processes for safeguarding prisoner property and approving telephone PINs were consistently problematic, hindering rehabilitation and family contact, although the introduction of the Launchpad system was a notable success.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Overcrowding, with 69% of prisoners sharing single cells, contributing to damp and mouldy conditions in the Victorian wings.
Poor processes for safeguarding prisoners' property, particularly during internal transfers, leading to significant losses and lack of accountability.
Significant challenges in accessing healthcare, including lengthy waiting lists for opticians and general practitioners, and delays in mental health transfers.
The continued high level and increase in use of force incidents.
Haphazard and delayed awarding of educational and work qualifications, alongside limited meaningful activity for some prisoners.
Slow and unsatisfactory telephone PIN approval processes, hindering essential family contact.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Dartmoor

Published 4 Dec 2024 · 648 prisoners

AI-generated report summary The report for HMP Dartmoor covers a year dominated by uncertainty and eventual temporary closure due to elevated Radon gas levels, leading to extensive prisoner decanting. While initial safety metrics remained low and in-cell phones improved wellbeing, the period was marked by delayed decision-making from HMPPS, significant estate deterioration, and challenges in maintaining a consistent regime and purposeful activity for the fluctuating population. Healthcare provision, despite a new provider, faced issues with staffing, 24-hour care, and external waiting times, while the Board expressed strong concerns about the lack of accountability from Ministers regarding previously raised recommendations.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Uncertainty over the future of HMP Dartmoor and lack of communication, highlighting delayed HMPPS response to Radon gas risks and potential non-compliance with safety regulations.
Persistent issues with Ministerial accountability, including overdue strategies (Ageing Population) and reports (IPP), and a perceived lack of credibility in responses to IMB findings.
Deterioration of the prison estate (damp, mould, pests) and the continued inhumane practice of double-celling.
Significant challenges in healthcare, including long waits for external appointments, lack of 24-hour care, and difficulties matching services to an ageing population, exacerbated by population changes.
An inconsistent and often poor regime, with many prisoners not engaged in purposeful activity, affected by staffing shortages in education and industries, and arbitrary time out of cell.
A lack of confidence in the discrimination reporting system and ongoing problems with the timeliness and quality of responses to prisoner complaints.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Leeds

Published 3 Dec 2024

AI-generated report summary HMP Leeds, a Category B local prison, faced significant challenges in 2023, particularly regarding overcrowding, which impacted shared cell conditions, and a concerning number of deaths in custody. The Board highlighted persistent issues with mental health provision, including transfer delays and a lack of secure beds, alongside ongoing concerns for IPP prisoners' progress and wellbeing. Staffing shortages and inexperience also posed challenges, affecting prisoner reception and key worker continuity, although efforts to improve training and staff-prisoner relationships in specific units were noted.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The high number of deaths in custody, designating HMP Leeds a ‘cluster’ site.
Persistent overcrowding, leading to undignified shared cells with inadequate ventilation, temperature control, and privacy, a concern highlighted for many years.
Lack of clarity and progress for IPP prisoners, resulting in feelings of hopelessness and negative impacts on their mental health, a repeated concern.
Significant delays and insufficient suitable places for mental health transfers, with the gatekeeping process often exceeding 14 days.
Illicit drugs continue to be a concern within the prison.
Staffing issues, including new staff lacking experience, some using inappropriate language, and the OMU being under-complement, affect prisoner support and management.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Bronzefield

Published 29 Nov 2024 · 517 prisoners

Self-harm: 2,495 Assaults: 301

AI-generated report summary Bronzefield faced significant challenges in the reporting year, primarily due to severe staff shortages impacting all aspects of the regime, leading to prisoners being locked up for extended periods and missing activities. Healthcare delivery was suboptimal due to lack of staff and poor coordination, resulting in medication delays and cancelled appointments. The prison also grappled with a high incidence of self-harm and challenges in managing complex, mentally unwell prisoners, compounded by external bed shortages.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Staff shortages severely impact services, leading to curtailed regimes, missed activities, and inability to meet key worker session targets.
Poor collaboration and 'silo' working among healthcare providers, exacerbated by lack of GPs and nurses, result in sub-optimal care and dangerous medication delays.
High incidence of self-harm and challenges in managing complex, acutely mentally unwell prisoners, compounded by bed shortages in secure psychiatric hospitals.
Significant problems with the prisoner complaints system, with lengthy delays undermining prisoner confidence.
An unworkable new property policy and persistent backlogs cause distress and frustration for prisoners.
Roll count is regularly late and inaccurate, negatively impacting the regime and security of the prison.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Swansea

Published 28 Nov 2024

AI-generated report summary HMP Swansea is considered a safe prison, commendably addressing initial self-harm incidents and demonstrating good staff-prisoner relationships. However, it faces persistent challenges with severe overcrowding, inadequate disability access, and significant delays in estate maintenance. Staffing issues have impacted key worker sessions and purposeful activity, while mental health and post-release accommodation remain key concerns requiring targeted interventions and better funding.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The ineffectiveness of Amey Projects has led to significant problems with major works and cell refurbishment, impacting the estate and work opportunities.
Persistent overcrowding, with two men sharing single cells and inadequate disability access, continues to be a major concern.
The education and activities department has struggled due to staff suspensions, and key worker sessions are significantly down, impacting purposeful activity.
Mental health of prisoners, particularly those on short-term sentences, remains a major concern, alongside inconsistent funding for addiction programmes.
Post-release accommodation is a significant problem, and the bail information pilot has stalled due to lack of staff.
IMB members are frequently unable to observe Good Order and Discipline (GOoD) reviews due to inconsistent scheduling, and there is insufficient use of The Big Word translation service.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Bedford

Published 27 Nov 2024 · 370 prisoners

Self-harm: 484

AI-generated report summary HMP Bedford, a Category B YOI, continues to face significant challenges including persistent overcrowding and an inconsistent induction process, despite some improvements in wing cleanliness and key worker implementation. The report highlights serious concerns regarding healthcare, characterized by poor communication and a decline in drug rehabilitation services. Security remains an issue with illicit items readily entering the prison, and high levels of assaults on staff, although recent improvements are noted. The Board also raises concerns about the unaddressed needs of its large remand population, the lack of digital infrastructure, and disproportionate adjudications.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The induction process remains inconsistent and limited in its effectiveness, with 38% of prisoners reporting no induction and 35% finding it poor.
The prison remains overcrowded, with two men sharing small cells and toilet, which the Board considers inhumane, and cells are often in poor condition and not properly cleaned.
There is a lack of effective communication from healthcare to prisoners, leading to frustration, missed appointments, and a perception by 75% of prisoners that the service is poor and slow.
Group and individual drug rehabilitation work is no longer carried out, leading to a deterioration in this service.
It appears easy for drugs and other illicit items to enter the prison, with at least one find reported every day on average.
Prisoners still spend too much time locked in their cells, with around half spending over 20 hours per day in their cell.
The relocation of the segregation unit (CSU) was significantly delayed (18 months) and beset by design and construction flaws.
There is a disproportionate representation of Black, Asian, other ethnic minority prisoners, and those from the Traveller community in adjudications.
There has been no progress in the provision of digital kiosks, and the paper-based property system remains unfit for purpose.
HMP Bedford’s strategy for remand prisoners has not been implemented, despite its positive elements.
Violence towards staff has been very high for most of the reporting year, although it has improved in recent months.
The education curriculum is contracting, with an insistence on providing maths and English at the expense of music and art, which may not suit the elective nature of a remand prison.
Only three of the five workshops are able to provide activities, limiting vocational training and work opportunities.
There is a concerning lack of access for the IMB to healthcare managers.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Altcourse

Published 26 Nov 2024 · 1,171 prisoners

Self-harm: 850

AI-generated report summary HMP Altcourse experienced a contract transfer to Sodexo in June 2023, leading to initial staffing challenges that have largely been addressed. The Board commends staff for maintaining safety amidst population pressures and notes improvements in mental healthcare and a successful reading strategy. Key concerns include the kitchen's inadequacy, lack of education in CSU, delays in mental health transfers, and the impact of early release schemes on resettlement and accommodation provision.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Late arrival of prisoners, particularly from out-of-area courts, increasing pressure on reception.
Increased prison population making safe location of vulnerable prisoners and those with gang affiliations more challenging.
Concerns that Pava incapacitant spray and batons may detract from good staff/prisoner relations.
The kitchen being unfit for purpose, given the increased population and prisoner concerns about food quality and quantity.
Lack of education provision for prisoners in the Care and Separation Unit (CSU).
Mentally unwell men held in CSU due to insufficient beds in secure facilities.
Staffing shortages leading to difficulties escorting prisoners to outside hospital appointments.
Ongoing challenges engaging short-term prisoners in substance misuse management.
Disappointment at the loss of vocational workshops and failure to deliver a planned workshop.
Disappearance of a dedicated family unit and lack of a visits hall creche impacting family relationships.
Government early release schemes exacerbating pressures on Offender Management and Resettlement teams, leading to more prisoners released without accommodation.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Ashfield

Published 19 Nov 2024 · 407 prisoners

Self-harm: 69 Assaults: 7 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP Ashfield, a Category C training and treatment centre for men convicted of sexual offences, has demonstrated an impressive safety record with significant reductions in self-harm and violence. The prison has managed a period of uncertainty due to contract changes well, ensuring good standards of accommodation, healthcare, and key working, which has been externally recognised as an exemplar. However, challenges remain, including delays in ministerial decisions on transfers, difficulties in securing resettlement places, and prisoner dissatisfaction with movement restrictions, which are perceived to make Ashfield feel more like a Category B prison.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Delays in Secretary of State decisions for open conditions transfers for life-sentenced and IPP prisoners.
Lack of suitable accommodation for a small number of prisoners on release.
Prisons not routinely informed of reoffending data post-release.
Limited number of resettlement prisons accepting people convicted of sexual offences.
Lack of systematic monitoring and quality assurance for incentives policy application and consistency in awarding positive comments.
Need for review of movement restrictions and clear communication of rationale.
Assurances needed for adequate resourcing and staffing of the equality and diversity department under the new contract.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Brixton

Published 15 Nov 2024 · 759 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Brixton, a Category C resettlement prison, experienced significant overcrowding, housing 759 prisoners against an operational capacity of 798. While healthcare saw improvements with reduced waiting times and a new care model, core issues like inadequate accommodation, persistent vermin, and high levels of contraband remain. The Board also highlighted severe limitations in purposeful activity and education, exacerbated by overcrowding, hindering the prison's resettlement function.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Overcrowding resulted in restricted regimes and the inappropriate accommodation of general population prisoners on the vulnerable prisoners' wing.
The prison lacks facilities to adequately support persistent self-harmers, and transfer options to appropriate facilities are severely limited.
Despite significant efforts, the amount of contraband, particularly NPS, entering the establishment remains high.
Prisoner accommodation is inadequate, being too small, old, dilapidated, and unsuitable for two men sharing.
Vermin, particularly rats, are a continuing and constant presence despite extermination efforts.
The number, range, and standard of educational and training opportunities are insufficient for the prison population, impacting resettlement.
Significant infrastructure improvements are urgently required across the prison.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Stoke Heath

Published 14 Nov 2024 · 782 prisoners

Self-harm: 400 Assaults: 139 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Stoke Heath saw positive developments in education and purposeful activity, leading to increased prisoner satisfaction and a significant drop in unemployment. The key worker scheme improved contact, and healthcare benefited from paramedics and a successful hepatitis C elimination. However, the Board noted a concerning rise in self-harm, assaults, well as issues with cramped living conditions, an aging estate, and limited mental health therapy. Persistent problems with property transfers and an under-resourced offender management unit also remained key concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Rise in self-harm incidents, prisoner-on-prisoner assaults, and drug use.
Cramped and inhumane living conditions in double cells with a lack of privacy.
Ageing prison estate, particularly the main kitchen floor (health and safety risk) and the outdated healthcare building.
Limited therapy provision and narrow range of interventions from the new secondary mental health contract.
Increased complaints about healthcare, specifically long waiting times for dental care, opiate medication, and external hospital appointments.
Persistent issues with property loss and damage during transfers between prisons.
Under-resourced Offender Management Unit leading to lack of prisoner contact.
Inconvenient social video call times for prisoners to contact families.
Lack of a meaningful progression plan for IPP prisoners.
Insufficient resourcing from the Minister to prevent overcrowding and adequately educate/skill prisoners.

Report year 2024 PRISON Concerns

Annual reports

Establishment types

Reports by year

Key findings

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

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