IMB Annual Reports

Pentonville

Published 26 Sep 2023 · 1,140 prisoners

Self-harm: 487 Assaults: 40 Staff assaults: 16

AI-generated report summary HMP Pentonville, a Category B local prison, faced significant challenges in 2022-2023, primarily due to overcrowding, antiquated facilities, and staff shortages impacting the regime and key work scheme. While the prison achieved notable successes in disrupting contraband and establishing a Neurodiversity Unit with positive outcomes, concerns persist regarding vulnerable prisoner safety, low time out of cell, and minimal resettlement support for its large remand population. Healthcare services showed improvements in patient access and staffing, but overall infrastructure and staffing levels continue to hinder humane conditions and effective rehabilitation.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Vulnerable prisoners on the VPU are not rigorously separated, compromising their safety.
Referrals for Challenge, Support and Intervention Plans (CSIP) dropped significantly, potentially increasing violence.
The antiquated fabric and facilities of the prison are poorly managed by GFSL, directly impacting prisoner experience.
The regime has normalised only one hour out of cell per day for many prisoners, with even less time at weekends.
The key worker scheme was virtually extinguished due to staff shortages and security operations.
Persistent problems with prisoner property on transfer and within the prison cause significant stress.
Low attendance at education and activities remains a persistent problem, with only 65% engagement.
Resettlement preparations for the unprecedented 75% remand population are minimal, with many released without a plan.
Overcrowding forces prisoners into small cells, often in pairs, with unscreened toilets, leading to inhumane conditions.
Disproportionate use of restraints on Black, Muslim, and young adult prisoners remains a concern.
The equality officer position was vacant, leading to a backlog of Discrimination Incident Reporting Forms and infrequent meetings.
The Muslim chaplain is overstretched due to increased demand and recruitment delays.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Littlehey

Published 20 Sep 2023 · 1,171 prisoners

Self-harm: 365 Assaults: 63 Staff assaults: 17

AI-generated report summary HMP Littlehey is a Category C training prison for men convicted of sexual offenses, holding 1,171 prisoners. The Board commended the prison for its generally safe environment, compassionate end-of-life care, and excellent PE regime. Key concerns include persistent overcrowding due to shared cells, long waiting times for specialist healthcare, and significant issues with managing prisoner property transfers between prisons. The report also highlights the over-representation of Black and Muslim prisoners in adjudications and use of force incidents, and ongoing problems with heating infrastructure and the use of temporary freezers.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Too many prisoners are forced to share cells, including those designed as single cells, and this number continues to increase.
There are concerns about the performance of five London prisons in responding to property complaints from HMP Littlehey prisoners.
Prisoners who are already very unwell have been transferred to HMP Littlehey, which lacks a 24-hour healthcare facility, raising concerns about their well-being.
Funds are not available to replace old, rusty, and torn gym equipment, posing potential health and safety risks.
Several cells on a wing were found to have no internal heating during extreme cold and remain offline.
Waiting lists for offending behaviour programmes remain long, impacting parole considerations.
The use of temporary freezers has been ongoing for over three years, despite funding being allocated for replacements.
Diversity and inclusion data continues to show an over-representation of Black and Muslim prisoners in adjudications and Muslim prisoners in use of force incidents.
There has been a noticeable increase in the number of complaints at HMP Littlehey, and the Discrimination Incident Report Form (DIRF) process is not operating effectively.
Maintenance of NHS-owned wheelchairs remains an issue despite the prison workshop being able to repair prison-owned ones.
The segregation environment is not conducive to helping prisoners with mental health issues improve.
Food Forums are not regular, and the Prison Council is perceived by prisoners as a "talking forum" rather than action-oriented.
The Prison Service continues to struggle with properly managing prisoners' property during transfers between prisons.
The lack of in-cell telephony and faults with shared phones caused significant frustration for prisoners.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Standford Hill

Published 19 Sep 2023 · 460 prisoners

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

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Standford Hill is recognized as a well-run Category D prison, excelling in resettlement and providing substantial opportunities for prisoners to gain skills and employment, contributing to low re-offending rates. The prison maintains a safe environment with zero reported self-harm, assaults, or deaths in custody during the reporting period, and healthcare provision has significantly improved. Key concerns include the persistent poor performance of GFSL, the potential negative impact of the TPRS on resettlement, and the need for scanning equipment and modern monitoring technology.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The performance of Gov Facility Services Ltd (GFSL) remains unsatisfactory, with slow maintenance response times and bureaucratic procedures.
The Temporary Presumptive Recategorisation Scheme (TPRS) could dilute resettlement work and reduce involvement in the Working Out Scheme.
There is a lack of scanning equipment to deter illicit items, despite its availability elsewhere in the prison estate.
Technological solutions for monitoring prisoners on ROTL and WOS are available but not approved, hindering efficiency.
The quality and variety of food provision are regularly criticised by prisoners.
Sporadic internet facilities and the overall condition of some buildings remain unaddressed issues from the previous year.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Styal

Published 15 Sep 2023 · 380 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Styal faced significant challenges during the reporting year, primarily due to staffing shortages that compromised safety, regime consistency, and access to essential services. The prison recorded high rates of assaults and self-harm, often linked to an unpredictable daily routine. Despite these issues, the Board noted positive staff-prisoner relationships, improvements in induction and MBU facilities, and Styal's leading performance in employment outcomes for women on release.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Staffing shortages and inexperience have compromised safety, consistency of regime, and access to key work and activities.
HMP/YOI Styal has the highest rates of prisoner-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-staff assaults, and the third highest self-harm in the female estate, largely due to an unpredictable regime.
The prison continues to receive individuals with severe mental health needs, for whom specialist facilities are lacking, placing undue pressure on prison resources.
Accommodation in residential houses remains a key concern due to ongoing maintenance issues, inadequate facilities, and a lack of decency, particularly regarding toilets and bathrooms.
Inconsistent and untimely administration of medicine, compounded by inadequate pharmacy accommodation and staff shortages, negatively impacts prisoners' health access.
Access to education, vocational training, and the library is hindered by staff availability and regime restrictions, limiting purposeful activity and progression opportunities.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Swinfen Hall

Published 14 Sep 2023 · 614 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Swinfen Hall, a Cat C training prison and YOI, reported a prisoner population of 614 at the end of April 2023. The Board observed positive movement towards increased prisoner support and a shared vision from the Governor and SLT, particularly in developing work opportunities. However, significant concerns remain regarding the restricted regime, with many prisoners experiencing 23-hour lock-ups, inadequate provision of basic items, and a persistent lack of sufficient secure mental health spaces leading to long transfer waits. The report also highlights issues with overloaded Offender Management Unit staff affecting prisoner progression, an understaffed Business Hub, and inconsistent quality in handling prisoner complaints and property issues.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

A regime requiring 23 hours a day in cell for many.
Lack of provision of basic items (toilet covers, toilet rolls, curtains) and delays in access to property.
Limited access to purposeful activity for many prisoners.
Excessive caseloads for Probation Prison Offender Managers (POMS), adversely affecting OASys reports and prisoner progression.
Insufficient spaces in secure mental health units and long waiting times for transfers for seriously mentally ill prisoners.
The Business Hub is understaffed, hindering access to essential prisoner services.
Inconsistent quality and fairness of complaint responses, with many unanswered or illegible.
Inadequate out-of-hours GP service, particularly concerning night visits.
A persistent backlog in dental treatment.
Lack of formal funding and resources to adequately support prisoners on direct release.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

North Sea Camp

Published 13 Sep 2023 · 224 prisoners

Self-harm: 4 Assaults: 1 Staff assaults: 1

AI-generated report summary HMP North Sea Camp, an open Category D male resettlement prison, maintained a safe and humane environment with generally positive staff-prisoner relationships and good healthcare provision during the reporting year. Key challenges include persistent delays caused by Community Offender Managers impacting ROTL and Parole Board hearings, the insecurity faced by IPP prisoners, and ongoing issues with accommodation quality, property transfers, and routine maintenance due to contract failures. The Board noted diligent efforts in resettlement, purposeful activity, and equality, supported by robust internal programs.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Community offender managers often take a long time to update OASys and complete paperwork for ROTL boards, leading to postponed Parole Board hearings and potentially longer prison stays.
The situation surrounding Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) prisoners requires resolution to alleviate their insecurity, with the Board disappointed by the rejection of a resentencing exercise.
The quality and allocated space of shared accommodation are poor, with no current plan to replace decommissioned aging units or convert dormitories to smaller rooms.
Delays in completing routine maintenance jobs and issues with property not arriving in its entirety upon transfer are concerning, with contract failures not consistently resulting in penalties for providers.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Five Wells

Published 12 Sep 2023 · 1,200 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Five Wells, a Category C prison, opened in February 2022 and housed 1200 prisoners by March 2023, below its operational capacity of 1680. The IMB noted successes such as positive visitor feedback and streamlined safeguarding, but raised significant concerns including widespread illicit items, severe staffing shortages, and numerous design flaws in the new build. Key areas needing development involve consistent regime application, improved food and canteen services, and the re-establishment of resettlement-focused programmes like ROTL.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The number and range of illicit items found in the prison, including widespread availability of drugs.
High proportion of inexperienced operational staff and persistent staff shortages, affecting support and rule enforcement.
Numerous design faults in the new build, rendering some cells unusable and impacting airflow and facility locations.
Inconsistent application and management of the incentives scheme, causing prisoner frustration.
Poor quality, quantity, and limited choice of food, with observed shortages and an unworkable canteen system.
Delays in the roll-out of key worker support and the non-delivery of anticipated intervention programmes and ROTL.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Lancaster Farms

Published 11 Sep 2023 · 540 prisoners

Assaults: 14 Staff assaults: 6

AI-generated report summary HMP Lancaster Farms, a category C resettlement prison, has largely provided a safe environment, though some pandemic regime restrictions were slow to lift. While primary healthcare is reasonable, mental health provision faces significant challenges due to staffing and a lack of specialist transfer capacity. Key worker contact and prisoner property management remain ongoing concerns for the Board, alongside issues of cell decency and delayed purposeful activity opportunities.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

High levels of self-harm among a small number of prisoners with complex mental health needs, who remain at the establishment due to lack of specialist provision.
Inconsistent key worker contact, with prisoners sometimes unaware of their key worker or not receiving regular meetings.
Persistent issues with accommodation decency, including broken toilet screens, lack of toilet seats in double cells, poor ventilation in some cells, and drainage problems.
Delays and lack of communication regarding prisoner complaints, especially those related to previous prisons or property transfers.
Significant issues with prisoner property management, including losses or delays during transfers and confusion over parcels.
Challenges in mental healthcare provision, including staffing levels and difficulties transferring prisoners with severe mental illness to specialist units.
Delays in reintroducing offending behaviour programmes, hindering progression for prisoners seeking re-categorisation.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Swaleside

Published 8 Sep 2023 · 828 prisoners

Assaults: 231 Staff assaults: 214

AI-generated report summary HMP Swaleside experienced an unprecedented year of staff shortages, severely impacting the regime and humane treatment of prisoners with restricted time out of cell. Despite these challenges, the Board commends the SLT and staff for implementing an improving regime, which saw a decline in violence and self-harm incidents. Key concerns remain around staff retention, the poor state of facilities, long segregation times, inadequate resettlement support, and the high number of deaths in custody.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent and unprecedented staff shortages significantly impacting the regime, wellbeing, and staff morale.
Humane treatment of prisoners compromised by regime restrictions, including long periods in cells and limited meaningful activity.
The poor condition and lack of refurbishment for many wing showers.
The concerning length of time some prisoners spend in the Care, Separation and Reintegration Unit (CSRU).
Inadequacies in the Employability Hub, leading to prisoners being released without proper support.
Disruptions and stability issues caused by the change in Offender Flow and Allocation system, bringing younger, shorter-term prisoners to a Category B trainer.
The high number of deaths in custody during the year (10), following 7 in the previous year.
The ongoing issue of drugs, especially spice, within the prison despite security improvements.
Lack of suitable courses and programmes for IPP prisoners to demonstrate progression towards release.
Continued reliance of HMP Standford Hill on Swaleside's kitchen, adding significant pressure.
Unusable cells due to maintenance issues, despite some improvement from GFSL.
Restricted keywork provision, limited to only the most vulnerable prisoners.
Inadequate facilities for female officers, including shared locker rooms.
A range of equality and access issues, including in-cell technology only in English, lift problems, and limited chaplaincy for some faiths.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Send

Published 7 Sep 2023 · 177 prisoners

Self-harm: 867 Assaults: 19 Staff assaults: 13

AI-generated report summary HMP Send is a closed women's prison that made significant efforts to ensure prisoner safety and humane treatment during a challenging year. While the Board noted positive staff-prisoner relationships, persistent staff shortages, particularly in OMU and probation, negatively impacted services and progression. Key concerns include high self-harm rates, the lack of digital in-cell technology, the unjust detention of IPP prisoners, and property issues during transfers.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Self-harm incidents remain worryingly high, particularly from a small number of prolific individuals, highlighting that prison is not an appropriate place for those with severe mental health issues.
The continued lack of digital in-cell technology is unacceptable, hindering prisoners' preparation for life in a digital society.
The continued detention of two IPP prisoners well beyond their tariff is considered unjust and inhumane.
Persistent staff shortages across the Offender Management Unit (OMU) and for probation officers severely impact prisoners' progression and resettlement prospects.
Significant delays and losses of prisoner property during transfers between establishments continue to be a concern, with a lack of consistent process.
Shortcomings exist in the management of discrimination incident report forms (DIRFs), compounded by the absence of independent scrutiny.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Leeds

Published 6 Sep 2023

Self-harm: 547 Assaults: 177 Staff assaults: 101

AI-generated report summary The IMB report for HMP Leeds covering 2021-2022 found the prison to be generally safe, although expressing concern over 24 deaths in custody and incidents of unsecured doors. While staff-prisoner relationships were mostly satisfactory, issues with staff conduct and an inability to deliver key worker sessions due to shortages were noted. Accommodation remains unsatisfactory, particularly due to cell sharing, and the lack of external mental health places means many prisoners with severe needs are held inappropriately. Positive aspects included healthcare provision, commended catering staff, and successful prisoner engagement in projects like the Lock-In cafe and bird of prey care.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant number of self-inflicted deaths in custody over the reporting period.
Uncommonly high number of incidents where doors and gates were left unsecured by staff, posing a security risk.
Inappropriate accommodation with prisoners sharing small, single-occupancy cells with limited fresh air and dignity, a concern raised "yet again" by the IMB.
Increasing number of prisoners with severe mental health issues who remain in prison due to insufficient community mental health placements.
Lack of progression opportunities for IPP prisoners, affecting their chances of release and mental well-being.
Ongoing issues with prisoner property, including losses during transfer and within the establishment, leading to a dramatic increase in applications.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Oakwood

Published 5 Sep 2023 · 2,067 prisoners

Self-harm: 1,139 Assaults: 270 Staff assaults: 64

AI-generated report summary HMP Oakwood, a Category C training and resettlement prison, reported a generally safe and respectful environment for the year ending March 2023, with reductions in self-harm and violent incidents. Healthcare provision by Practice Plus Group was equivalent to community standards, though mental health services faced challenges. Key concerns included persistent issues with food quality and servery hygiene, property losses, underperforming key worker sessions, and delays in mental health transfers due to a lack of secure placements.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The lack of availability of forensic, secure mental health places, resulting in prisoners with complex needs remaining in the Segregation Unit (CSU) beyond the stipulated 28 days without adequate support.
Persistent issues with food provision, including concerns about quality, portion sizes, servery hygiene, broken equipment, and an ineffective complaints monitoring system for food.
Ongoing problems with prisoner property losses, particularly during transfers and within the establishment, indicating a lack of adherence to the Prisoner Property Policy Framework.
Challenges within the key worker system, with significantly fewer sessions delivered than targeted and concerns about the quality and meaningfulness of these interactions.
Concerns regarding the quality and delivery of some education courses provided by Novus, coupled with difficulties for prisoners in securing available places.
A high percentage (17%) of adjudications being dismissed or not proceeded with, suggesting potential issues with the reporting or investigation process.
Prisoners' confusion about the distinction between complaints and requests, alongside variable quality and legibility in complaint responses.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Downview

Published 1 Sep 2023

Self-harm: 1,153 Assaults: 24 Staff assaults: 31

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Downview experienced a challenging reporting year marked by significant operational changes and an increase in prisoners with complex mental health needs, leading to increased self-harm and use of force incidents. While staff demonstrated compassion, issues like delayed mental health transfers, inconsistent medication distribution, and an un-embedded key worker scheme persisted. The Board expressed concerns about population pressures, property loss during transfers, and a reactive approach to the new transgender policy.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant rise in transfers of women with complex and acute mental health issues, for whom prison is an inappropriate environment and staff are not adequately trained.
Long delays in transferring severely mentally unwell women to secure psychiatric units, despite assessments.
Population pressure leading to transfers of unsuitable prisoners, impacting prison operation and safety.
Unnecessary disruption and loss of property, monies, and educational progress for women transferring between prisons, exacerbated by administrative failures and poor inter-prison communication.
The key worker system is not embedded, and there is a lack of consistency in the application of prison rules by inexperienced and redeployed staff.
Medication distribution problems consistently disrupt the regime, and healthcare consulting rooms lack privacy curtains.
Concerns regarding the new transgender policy's reactive management and resource planning impact on E wing, and the absence of commissioned dementia testing for an aging prison population.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Winchester

Published 31 Aug 2023 · 678 prisoners

Self-harm: 540 Assaults: 212 Staff assaults: 124

AI-generated report summary HMP Winchester made steady progress in a challenging environment, marked by improved staff numbers and a positive shift in culture, yet persistent issues with its Victorian infrastructure and overcrowding remain. While self-harm incidents decreased overall, the number of individuals involved increased, and prisoner-on-prisoner assaults rose. Healthcare experienced staffing shortfalls affecting GP and dental waiting times, and activity placements remained inadequate for the population. Key concerns include the dilapidated estate, resettlement support, and delays in critical infrastructure projects.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Poor physical environment and dilapidated Victorian infrastructure, with major issues remaining unaddressed.
Insufficient work and education placements for the prison's population.
Lack of effective support for remand prisoners and others to secure housing on release, leading to many being released homeless.
Delays in the construction of the new Care and Separation Unit (CSU) and the approval/installation of a modernised CCTV system.
Inconsistent handling and management of prisoner property, leading to complaints.
Overcrowding and its associated issues, including the holding of prisoners on cellular confinement on ordinary wings.
Persistent staff non-compliance with systems and procedures.
Increase in the number of individuals repeatedly self-harming and prisoner-on-prisoner assaults.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Low Newton

Published 29 Aug 2023 · 262 prisoners

Self-harm: 398 Assaults: 17 Staff assaults: 41

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Low Newton is a well-managed women's prison that successfully adapted its regime post-Covid. While praised for its safe environment, estate improvements, and dedicated staff, it is significantly hampered by staff shortages, impacting regime delivery and key worker scheme consistency. The Board highlights concerns regarding funding for essential facilities, the management of complex prisoners, and the need for improved transport arrangements and oversight of disciplinary processes.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The segregation facility housed a prisoner with substantial behavioural difficulties, causing great difficulty; a better way to help such prisoners needs consideration.
More flexibility on Friday release of prisoners is needed, pending new legislation.
There are outstanding capital funding needs for enhanced CCTV, a wellbeing clinic, segregation unit heating, and education facilities; funding prioritisation should be accurate.
Reconsideration of drugs search policy and equipment in the women’s estate is needed.
Prisoner transport arrangements should be changed to prevent women prisoners' late arrivals.
The key worker scheme needs continued prioritisation against competing staff demands.
The Board needs better oversight of adjudications and GOOD reviews in the safety and support unit.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Ranby

Published 25 Aug 2023

Self-harm: 425 Assaults: 108 Staff assaults: 54

AI-generated report summary HMP Ranby, a Category C training prison, generally provides a safe environment with satisfactory healthcare, though mental health transfers face significant delays. The Board raised concerns regarding cell sharing, inadequate purposeful activity, and difficulties prisoners face in accessing offender managers. Staffing has improved but retention of new officers is an concern, while the prison struggles to maintain its training role due to overcrowding and a high churn of short-sentence prisoners. The Board’s ability to monitor was impacted by administrative and equipment issues.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Cell sharing in single-occupancy cells, where prisoners eat and use the toilet, is questioned as fair and humane and has been an ongoing concern.
Prisoners consistently struggle to access or even identify their offender manager and POM Officer.
Purposeful activity is sometimes poor, and a high churn of short-sentence prisoners prevents many from completing rehabilitation or skilled work courses.
Significant concerns persist regarding the length of detention for IPP prisoners and the extended waits for severe mental health cases to be transferred to appropriate institutions.
Rehabilitation and release planning are inadequate, with the prison struggling to balance its training and resettlement roles due to overcrowding and population churn.
Issues with prisoner property, particularly loss or damage during transfers, remain a major source of frustration and complaints, as do delayed refunds from DHL and problems with canteen deliveries.
The daily food budget of £2.17 per prisoner makes it difficult to provide adequate quality and quantity, leading to frequent complaints.
Staff retention is a concern, with 25% of new probationary officers leaving within their first year, and primary healthcare services are understaffed due to lengthy vetting processes.
The Board's ability to effectively monitor the prison is hampered by a lack of administrative support, non-attendance by governors at meetings, and unserviceable office equipment.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Rye Hill

Published 24 Aug 2023 · 661 prisoners

Self-harm: 246 Assaults: 39

AI-generated report summary HMP Rye Hill, a Category B training prison primarily for men convicted of sexual offences, housed 661 prisoners at the end of the reporting year. The Board noted positive developments in prisoner-led initiatives, low violence, and improvements in healthcare provision and education efficiency. However, significant concerns persist regarding the progression and anxiety of IPP prisoners, the lack of compassionate releases, inconsistent medication transfers across the prison estate, and inadequate support for sexual offence prisoners transitioning to release.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

IPP progression and the anxiety caused by the rejection of recommendations around re-sentencing and reducing licence periods, particularly for those with complex needs and without dedicated budget provision.
Inconsistent application of processes across the prison estate for ensuring prisoners have sufficient prescribed medication when transferring to Rye Hill.
The continued lack of compassionate releases despite numerous applications and an increase in terminally ill prisoners dying in custody.
Challenges for sexual offence prisoners in progressing from Category B to C and D prisons, and the increasing number of direct releases without specialist support.
Older prisoners being required to retake English and Maths level 1 qualifications for work roles due to inability to prove prior attainment, despite clear proficiency.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Gatwick IRC/RSTHF

Published 23 Aug 2023

Assaults: 33 Staff assaults: 55

AI-generated report summary Gatwick IRC, comprising Brook House and Tinsley House, generally provided a safe environment in 2022 despite high rates of detainee distress and an increase in violence. The Board noted improvements in safeguarding governance, positive staff interactions, and expanded healthcare services. However, significant concerns remain regarding the detention of vulnerable individuals, ineffective Rule 35 processes, persistent issues with legal and accommodation support, and Home Office data provision.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

High rates of detainee distress, with many reporting suicidal feelings or depression.
An increase in violence, including assaults on staff and detained men, and a rise in fights.
Failure of the Detention Gatekeeper to prevent the detention of a significant number of men with mental health issues.
Inappropriate and insufficient use of Rule 35, leading to continued detention of vulnerable individuals.
Persistent barriers to meaningful legal support and substantial delays in providing suitable bail accommodation.
A growing cohort of long-staying detainees becoming 'stuck' in the system, with a lack of proactive solutions from the Home Office.
Significant problems in obtaining even straightforward summary data from the Home Office and, to some extent, from Serco.

Report year 2022 IRC Concerns

North East Midlands, Yorkshire & Humber STHF

Published 22 Aug 2023

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

AI-generated report summary This is the first annual report for the North East Midlands, Yorkshire & Humberside IMB, covering Short-Term Holding Facilities (STHFs) from February 2022 to January 2023. While staff conduct and detainee treatment generally received positive feedback, significant concerns arose regarding the unsafe opening and managing large intakes at Swinderby Residential STHF. The Board also highlighted the critical and unresolved issue of Home Office policy preventing detainees in all STHFs from taking prescribed medication, deeming it inhumane and dangerous.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The unsafe opening of Swinderby RSTHF, including alarm system and healthcare provision issues.
The Home Office policy preventing detainees from taking prescribed medication for pre-existing conditions, which is viewed as inhumane, dangerous, and a repeated concern.
The unsafe arrival process of a large intake of detainees at Swinderby, exacerbated by vehicle size and missing documentation.
The lack of privacy and confidentiality in reception interviews at Swinderby RSTHF, potentially hindering vulnerability identification.
Overreliance on police stations for overnight immigration detention due to transport difficulties and lack of suitable residential STHF transfers.
Inadequate capacity for shared facilities (dining, IT, games, translation phones) at Swinderby RSTHF when operating at fuller capacity.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Heathrow Immigration Removal Centre

Published 18 Aug 2023

Self-harm: 150 Assaults: 58 Staff assaults: 22

AI-generated report summary The IMB annual report for Heathrow Immigration Removal Centre (HIRC) for 2022 highlights persistent issues despite generally safe conditions. Key concerns include the safety implications of processing South Coast Arrivals, the continued detention of individuals with severe mental health issues, and a dilapidated infrastructure leading to major service disruptions and a site evacuation. The report also raises concerns about the quality of food, the inappropriate use of the Care and Separation Unit, and a lack of effective engagement from the Detention Engagement Team.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The arrival and management of South Coast Arrivals in the Short-Term Holding Facility area severely compromised safety due to overcrowding and truncated health assessments.
People who are mentally unfit for detention continue to be assessed and approved by the Home Office Gate Keeper for detention, with failings of the Detention Engagement Team contributing to self-harm incidents.
The dilapidated infrastructure frequently experienced loss of services (power, gas, water, communications), culminating in a 42-hour power and water outage and site evacuation.
Concerns persist regarding the variety, quantity, and quality of food, impacting detainee wellbeing and Centre safety.
The Care and Separation Unit was inappropriately used for removal directions and for detainees refusing to share rooms.
The lack of effective Detention Engagement Team (DET) engagement with residents throughout the year led to frustration and incidents of indiscipline.
There is significant distrust in the official complaints process, with 85% of Contractor-related complaints being ruled unsubstantiated.
Too many detainees are held for unacceptably long periods without a prospect of imminent removal, with the longest stayer held for 1,177 days.
Persistent delays in finding suitable bail accommodation, particularly for time-served foreign national offenders (TSFNOs), combined with poor communication about bail status.

Report year 2022 IRC Concerns

Leyhill

Published 17 Aug 2023 · 462 prisoners

Self-harm: 5 Assaults: 12 Staff assaults: 1

AI-generated report summary HMP Leyhill, a Category D open prison, faces a complex transition with reduced capacity due to construction and a changing demographic towards a younger population. While safety, healthcare uptake, and education attendance are positive, significant concerns persist regarding resettlement delays for IPP prisoners due to a lack of approved premises and inefficiencies in external probation. Alarm systems, staffing levels, and the increasing presence of illicit items also require urgent attention, alongside challenges in food budgeting and healthcare screening for new arrivals.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Lack of spaces in approved premises leading to incarceration beyond release dates
Delays in IPP prisoner resettlement and the inefficiency of external probation services
Inability of prisoners to raise an alarm in their rooms and general alarm system functionality issues
Staffing challenges, including high new staff numbers, detached duty, and external probation service shortages
Changing prison population demographics, with an increase in younger prisoners, OCG members, and illicit items like steroids, syringes, and mobile phones
Food budget not keeping pace with inflation, leading to prisoner complaints about portion size

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Erlestoke

Published 16 Aug 2023 · 467 prisoners

Self-harm: 215 Assaults: 65 Staff assaults: 37

AI-generated report summary HMP Erlestoke, a Category C training prison, held 467 prisoners with an operational capacity of 468 during the reporting year ending March 2023. The prison experienced a reduction in self-harm incidents to 215 and violent incidents to 102 (65 prisoner-on-prisoner, 37 prisoner-on-staff), with no deaths in custody. Key improvements included enhanced gate security and the introduction of in-cell laptops for prisoners. However, significant challenges persist, notably chronic staff shortages across healthcare, education, and key working, persistent issues with illicit substances, and an inadequate constant watch cell. Delays in essential building works and national issues like parole restrictions for IPP prisoners continue to impede progression and resettlement efforts.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Parole restrictions for prisoners eligible for open conditions.
Lack of hope and solutions for IPP prisoners following the rejection of resentencing.
Chronic national shortage of suitable mental health provision for complex and vulnerable prisoners.
Inadequate daily food budget for prisoners, despite rising food costs.
Lack of a long-term maintenance plan and poor performance by Government Facilities Services Limited (GFSL).
Repeated delays in the replacement of residential wings, impacting the Progression Regime.
Insufficient healthcare facilities and staff to accommodate the planned increase in operational capacity.
Persistent access to illicit substances within the prison.
Inadequate and potentially dangerous constant watch cell.
Lack of meaningful job opportunities for prisoners.
Reduced time out of cell at weekends.
Poor first night accommodation.
Overly long induction programme.
Lack of suitably adapted cells for disabled people.
Low healthcare attendance at first ACCT reviews.
Poor IT infrastructure in healthcare.
Under-resourcing and recruitment difficulties for the mental health team.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Rochester

Published 15 Aug 2023 · 696 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Rochester maintained a stable and safe environment despite ongoing staff shortages, which impacted the regime for much of the year. While staffing improved by year-end, concerns persist regarding dilapidated buildings, property losses, and the availability of illicit drugs. The Board noted good mental healthcare provision and staff-prisoner relationships but raised significant concerns about the lack of suitable accommodation for released prisoners and the low education attendance rates.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Lack of suitable accommodation for prisoners on release or HDC, particularly in the South East.
Ongoing poor condition of accommodation, with dilapidated Edwardian buildings and failing infrastructure in newer blocks.
Persistent problem of property losses during transfers between establishments, and a general lack of care for prisoner property.
Haphazard cell clearance checks, especially when prisoners are moved to the Segregation Unit.
Significant increase in complaints and applications to the IMB, particularly related to property issues.
Ongoing vermin problem at the prison.
Persistent availability of illicit drugs, especially NPS, which contributes to debt, bullying, intimidation, and violence.
Erratic attendance of healthcare representatives at Good Order and Discipline (GOOD) reviews.
Repeated exceeding of the 42-day segregation time limit when a prisoner's status is changed to Category B.
GP waiting times of 17 days and occasional late arrivals by GPs.
Shortage of Category D (open conditions) places in the South East, causing frustration for prisoners awaiting transfer.
General continuing shortage of experienced prison officers and high levels of sickness/absence, impacting regime delivery.
Shortage of trainers for vocational training courses like Welding, Plastering, and Carpentry.
Low education attendance rates (around 70%) not recovering to pre-Covid levels.
A significant number of prisoners being released without accommodation, leading to homelessness and vulnerability.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Moorland

Published 11 Aug 2023 · 1,058 prisoners

Self-harm: 337 Assaults: 86 Staff assaults: 28

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Moorland is a Category C public sector resettlement prison for adults and young offenders, also serving as a foreign national hub, with an operational capacity of 1,058. The report highlights generally good accommodation and staff-prisoner relationships, with improvements in healthcare waiting times and education access. However, key concerns persist regarding staffing levels impacting regime and key work, ongoing issues with illicit substances, and significant delays in mental health transfers to specialist units, alongside a lack of prisoner confidence in the complaints system.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Inconsistencies in the use of body-worn video cameras during use of force incidents remain a concern.
There are ongoing issues with illicit substances getting into the prison despite security measures.
Prisoners express little confidence in the complaints and discrimination incident reporting form (DIRF) systems, often reporting that forms go astray or receive no response.
Concerns persist regarding the limited budget for food, leading to complaints about small portion sizes.
The Board remains concerned about undue delays in transfers to specialist psychiatric units, with a statutory time limit of 28 days for transfers not yet in law.
Lack of access to rehabilitative programmes, such as Horizon, is causing frustration, particularly for IPP prisoners and those for whom such programmes are specified by the parole board.
Lost property, both within the establishment and during transfers, continues to be a significant cause of frustration.
The incentives scheme is often perceived by prisoners as punitive rather than motivating.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Northumberland

Published 10 Aug 2023 · 1,327 prisoners

Self-harm: 314 Assaults: 151

AI-generated report summary HMP Northumberland generally provides a safe and humane environment, with improvements in regime and education post-Covid, and promising employment initiatives like The Recruitment Junction. However, significant challenges persist concerning mental health support and transfers, unreliable healthcare provision, and poor resettlement outcomes, especially regarding post-release employment and housing. These issues, particularly mental health and homelessness, remain areas of repeated concern for the Board.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The availability of mental health support for prisoners and delays in identifying appropriate placements for those with serious mental health conditions remain a concern, highlighted as a repeated issue.
A lack of improvement in ensuring housing for men released into homeless situations, which was also a concern in the previous year.
The need for more privacy during general interviews at reception to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Too many ACCTs are closed without adequate exploration of the causes of self-harm, and the use of 'listeners' could be improved.
Perceived easy availability of drugs within the prison, as reported in a prisoner survey.
Unreliable healthcare provision due to staffing and leadership difficulties throughout 2022.
Poor rehabilitation and release planning, evidenced by only 12% of prisoners being in employment six weeks after release, against a target of 20%.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Berwyn

Published 9 Aug 2023 · 1,823 prisoners

Self-harm: 941 Assaults: 356 Staff assaults: 109

AI-generated report summary HMP Berwyn faced staffing shortages and a more challenging prisoner cohort, impacting regimes and increasing violence in early 2023, despite overall reductions in self-harm and staff assaults. The Board noted positive staff-prisoner relationships, comprehensive resettlement services, and strong education/work provisions. However, significant concerns remain regarding healthcare (medication restrictions, mental health transfers, appointment attendance), estate maintenance, and the need for improved staff training and activity for vulnerable groups.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Medication access restrictions for English prisoners, particularly for mental health issues, due to local healthcare provider policies.
Long waiting times for seriously mentally unwell prisoners to be transferred to secure psychiatric hospitals due to a lack of beds.
The impact of out-of-area transfers and a changed prisoner cohort on safety, housing, and an increase in violence.
Persistent staffing shortages across operational roles, probation, offender management, and complaints departments.
Rising non-attendance rates at medical appointments (DNA/CNA) and increasing concerns about frailty and dementia.
Legacy estate issues, including the heating system, peeling plaster in cells, and slow repairs for laundry machines.
A high number of adjudications cancelled due to incorrectly completed paperwork.
Insufficient programmes for people with learning difficulties and poor attendance at morning education/work sessions.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Onley

Published 8 Aug 2023 · 740 prisoners

Self-harm: 223 Assaults: 80 Staff assaults: 67

AI-generated report summary HMP Onley, a Category C training and resettlement prison, faced significant challenges primarily due to persistent officer staff shortages during the reporting year. These shortages severely impacted the daily regime, key work delivery, access to education and workshops, and overall purposeful activity, leading to prisoners spending prolonged periods in their cells. The Board also raised concerns about illicit substances, food quality, and delays in prisoner property, while commending positive staff-prisoner relationships and efforts in resettlement and employment on release.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent and widespread staff shortages significantly impacting regime delivery, key work, security operations, and purposeful activity across the prison.
Continued prevalence of illicit substances and inconsistent operation of enhanced gate security due to staffing issues.
Poor food quality, insufficient portion sizes, and budget constraints affecting the provision of prisoner meals.
Significant delays and loss of prisoner property, causing considerable frustration and a high volume of complaints.
Limited access to purposeful activity, education, and workshops due to staffing and a part-time regime, resulting in extended periods of time in cells.
The ongoing absence of in-cell lockers for prisoners who require in-cell prescription (ICP) medicines.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Thorn Cross

Published 4 Aug 2023

Self-harm: 1 Assaults: 2 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Thorn Cross is a Category D open prison that maintains a very safe environment with extremely low violence levels and effective drug reduction strategies. Relationships between staff and prisoners are generally positive, fostering a rehabilitative culture. While healthcare provision is deemed excellent and rehabilitation efforts are at the heart of the prison's operations, concerns remain regarding low transfer rates for long-sentence prisoners, property transfer issues, and limitations in internet and mobile phone access for prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Low transfer rates for lifers and IPP prisoners, denying them rehabilitation opportunities.
Ongoing issues with property transfers resulting in missing items and slow resolution.
Lack of internet access for prisoners studying at university and limited mobile phone access for remote family visits.
Inconsistent use of Body Worn Video Cameras during use of force incidents and concerns regarding cuff usage.
Proposed central dining plans are unsuitable and there are poor facilities for prisoners to cook their own meals.
Mental health provision is not available in the evenings and at weekends.
Disruption to education attendance due to other prison activities.
Ineffective Prison Council and insufficient analysis of prison activities by protected characteristics.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Maidstone

Published 3 Aug 2023 · 603 prisoners

Self-harm: 86 Assaults: 77

AI-generated report summary HMP Maidstone, a Category C foreign national prison with a population of 603, is generally safe but faces significant challenges. Persistent delays in the Home Office immigration system cause profound uncertainty and prolonged detention for prisoners, exacerbating mental health issues. The prison struggles with severe staffing shortages across healthcare, education, and regime provision, alongside an acute lack of quality purposeful activity places. Additionally, communication barriers due to inadequate translation of official documents and the dilapidated condition of the Victorian estate remain key concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent delays and uncertainty caused by the Home Office immigration system, leading to prolonged detention post-sentence, particularly for those eligible for early removal or already re-categorised to Cat D.
Insufficient quantity and poor quality of purposeful activity, education, and vocational training opportunities for prisoners, hindering resettlement efforts.
Significant communication barriers due to the lack of official Home Office documentation in prisoners' native languages and unsatisfactory interpretation services.
Severe staffing shortages and vacancies impacting mental health services (e.g., psychiatrist post), education provision, key worker sessions, and weekend regimes.
Mental health issues exacerbated by immigration-related stress, compounded by a shortage of early intervention resources.
Increasing prisoner numbers and the conversion of cells to double occupancy, raising concerns about safety and overcrowding.
The poor condition and outdated nature of the prison estate, including damp cells, damaged windows, and frequent utility issues, alongside inadequate CCTV coverage.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

The Mount

Published 2 Aug 2023 · 1,025 prisoners

Self-harm: 45 Assaults: 90 Staff assaults: 77

AI-generated report summary HMP The Mount faced a challenging year ending February 2023, marked by a severe drug crisis involving Fentanyl-laced Spice, resulting in nine deaths, five of which were drug-related. Persistent staffing shortages led to a restrictive regime, limiting prisoners' access to education, work, and purposeful activity. Key concerns included overcrowding from cell doubling, significant healthcare waiting times exacerbated by escort shortages, and a failure to deliver adequate resettlement and offending behaviour programmes, contributing to an increase in prisoner complaints.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The prison is in the midst of a crisis caused by the ready availability of a particularly pernicious form of Spice laced with Fentanyl, leading to common Code Blues and five drug-related deaths in custody.
Staffing levels are a major concern, particularly as the number of prisoners increases, with continued loss of experienced officers and new recruits having to go straight to the front line.
Education programmes have not improved due to lack of investment, with 50% of workshops standing empty due to the lack of instructors or meaningful activities.
A major concern is the conversion of single cells to doubles, and the total lack of any form of privacy and storage capacity for personal property, which needs to be monitored.
Significant delays and cancellations of hospital appointments have worsened due to a lack of escorts, impacting prisoners' health and wellbeing.
It is disappointing that the prison fails to provide Release on Temporary License (ROTL) opportunities despite prisoners waiting for Category D transfer and local company interest.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

London STHF

Published 1 Aug 2023

Self-harm: 0

AI-generated report summary This report covers the London Short-Term Holding Facilities at Heathrow and City Airports, and reporting facilities Becket and Eaton House for the reporting year ending January 2023. The Board found that while holding rooms generally provide a safe environment and most inductions were done well, significant concerns persist around excessive lengths of stay, inadequate facilities, and lack of access to internet and medication. Recommendations target the Minister, Home Office, Border Force, Mitie Care & Custody, and Clearsprings to address these issues, many of which are repeated from previous years.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Long waits for detainees in CWAs and holding rooms, often exceeding 24 hours, partly due to Border Force staffing and Clearsprings accommodation/transport issues.
Inadequate provision and maintenance of facilities, including lack of mattresses, frequently out-of-order showers, absence of toilet seats, child-sized benches for adults, and poor temperature control in holding rooms.
Persistent lack of internet access in holding rooms, hindering communication and rendering translation devices unusable.
Inconsistent and sometimes poor quality of induction, including failure to offer translators, not informing detainees of their right not to disclose certain information, and lack of DCO engagement.
Lack of access to personal medication for detainees at London City Airport and Eaton House.
Denied access to holding rooms for wheelchair users due to untrained C&C staff.
Concerns regarding the transparency and compassionate handling of the complaints process.
Children experiencing extended waits in Controlled Waiting Areas (CWA) where facilities are unsuitable, instead of being accommodated in family holding rooms.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Featherstone

Published 28 Jul 2023

AI-generated report summary HMP Featherstone experienced a challenging year, marked by significant staffing issues that disrupted the regime and various services, including healthcare and purposeful activity. The prison's aging infrastructure is a major concern, along with the inadequate management of mentally ill prisoners in segregation. While violence reduced and overall safety improved, issues with staff culture, property management, and inconsistent use of body-worn cameras persist.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The dilapidated state of the prison, with no apparent plan for significant investment.
The inappropriate housing of mentally ill prisoners in segregation units with untrained staff, and delays in transferring them to suitable facilities.
Inconsistent performance of the prison applications system.
A problematic culture among a small group of staff, requiring continued vigilance from senior management.
Persistent staffing shortages affecting various departments and the effective use of resources.
Significant ongoing issues with prisoner property, both on transfer and within the establishment, exacerbated by staff shortages and inadequate investigation of losses.
Inconsistent and insufficient use of body-worn cameras by prison officers, hindering investigations into alleged uses of force.
Concerns regarding the quality, quantity, and inconsistent portion sizes of food.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Lewes

Published 26 Jul 2023 · 554 prisoners

Self-harm: 490 Staff assaults: 101

AI-generated report summary HMP Lewes continues to face severe challenges, primarily driven by staff shortages that restrict the regime, leaving many prisoners out of cell for only an hour a day. This has contributed to significant increases in self-harm and assaults on staff, while issues with healthcare provision, mental health support, and the decency of accommodation persist. The Board highlights the disproportionate use of force against BAME prisoners and the ongoing lack of resettlement support for those on remand.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Significant increase in self-harm and staff assaults, and disproportionate use of force against BAME prisoners.
Prisoners without work or education are out of cell for little more than an hour a day, with limited work/education places and a non-functional key worker system.
Inappropriate use of the Care and Separation Unit (CSU) for complex mental health cases, and long waits for mental health assessments, psychiatrists, and secure transfers.
Inadequate provision of working washing/drying machines and kit, and persistent delays in repairs to the Victorian wing, leading to poor heating, hot water, and damp.
Overall staff shortages and the counting of non-effective staff significantly impact the regime and service delivery.
Remand prisoners receive no support for resettlement.
Inappropriate allocation of prisoners to the vulnerable prisoner wing leads to bullying and inadequate induction.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Norwich

Published 19 Jul 2023 · 710 prisoners

AI-generated report summary The IMB report for HMP/YOI Norwich highlights persistent staff shortages as the overarching issue, leading to a restricted regime with prisoners locked up for extended periods daily. Key concerns include high levels of self-harm and violence, an overstretched mental health team, and a lack of purposeful activity and rehabilitation programs for long-term and IPP prisoners. The Board also notes the inhumane detention of foreign national prisoners beyond their sentences and prisoners with severe mental health issues in unsuitable facilities.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent staff shortages continue to undermine regime delivery, leading to long periods of lock-up and limited purposeful activity.
High levels of self-harm and violence, exacerbated by restricted regimes, persist, with an overstretched mental health team.
Significant issues with accommodation decency, including outdated buildings, leaking roofs, and inconsistent cell cleaning prior to new arrivals.
Inhumane treatment of vulnerable prisoners, specifically seven foreign nationals held beyond their sentence expiry and prisoners with severe mental health issues detained in unsuitable facilities.
A critical lack of accredited interventions and offending behaviour programmes for IPP and long-term sentenced prisoners.
Ongoing problems with healthcare access due to staff shortages, including cancelled appointments and untimely medication delivery.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Exeter

Published 18 Jul 2023 · 342 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Exeter, a Category B local and resettlement prison, experienced persistent high levels of violence and self-harm, alongside challenges with staffing instability and extensive refurbishment work in 2022. While healthcare provision was generally satisfactory, access to psychological therapies remained limited, and living conditions were often impacted by overcrowding and restricted regimes. Progress towards successful resettlement was hindered by short sentences, lack of work opportunities, and staff shortages.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

High levels of violence and self-harm, with vulnerabilities at managerial and operational levels.
Concerns about the effectiveness and timely execution of Challenge, Support and Intervention Plan (CSIP) processes.
Inhumane living conditions due to slow exit from Covid restrictions, staff shortages, extensive refurbishment, and overcrowding.
Limited access to psychological therapies (online or face-to-face) for anxiety and mild to moderate depression.
Limited progress in resettlement for short-term and resettlement prisoners due to short timeframes and lack of work opportunities.
Backlog in staff training, especially Control and Restraint (C&R).
Poor management of prisoners’ property, leading to losses and compensation costs, both internally and on transfer.
Inadequate arrangements for prisoner induction, particularly for young adults, and lack of quality assurance.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Yarl’s Wood

Published 7 Jul 2023 · 423 prisoners

Self-harm: 18 Assaults: 15 Staff assaults: 14

AI-generated report summary Yarl’s Wood IRC experienced a shift to a male-only population, including a significant increase in foreign national offenders, during the reporting year. The Board noted an increase in violence, self-harm incidents, and use of force, alongside persistent challenges with staff recruitment, retention, and communication due to language barriers. While healthcare provision was largely commended, concerns remain regarding the length of detention, delays in bail releases, and the need for more comprehensive planning for release and resettlement, particularly for FNOs.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

An increase in violence, including physical and verbal altercations between residents and assaults on staff.
Increasing numbers of Foreign National Offenders (FNOs) experiencing long lengths of stay without the removal process starting in prison.
Delays in securing interpreters, leading to communication difficulties and isolation for non-English speakers.
Detainees granted bail experiencing significant delays in release due to a lack of suitable accommodation.
The length of detention and uncertainty contributing to mental health issues, violence, depression, and self-harm.
Inadequate transfer of ACCT paperwork for men released into the community and insufficient mental health information from prisons.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Holme House

Published 4 Jul 2023 · 1,175 prisoners

AI-generated report summary HMP Holme House demonstrated significant improvements in 2022, effectively recovering from Covid-19 disruptions and enhancing safety, healthcare, and resettlement services. While the prison maintained a safe and humane environment, key challenges included slow estate maintenance, deterioration in food quality, and the disproportionate impact of a growing young adult population on violence and self-harm. The IMB also highlighted issues with contractual transparency and the provision of adequate programs for vulnerable prisoners, making several recommendations to address these concerns.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Lack of timely funding for essential repairs and slow maintenance across the estate, including cell, house block, and kitchen equipment.
Contractual standards and performance indicators remain unavailable to the IMB, hindering effective monitoring.
Deterioration in the quality of food services, compounded by non-operational bakery and unrepaired kitchen equipment.
The increasing number of young adults contributing disproportionately to violence and self-harm, alongside general cultural disquiet.
Inadequate provision of specific programmes for vulnerable prisoners due to their separation and small group sizes.
High incidence of prisoner property going missing, particularly during transfers and cell clearances, remaining a significant complaint category.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Derwentside

Published 30 Jun 2023 · 29 prisoners

Self-harm: 7 Assaults: 1 Staff assaults: 5

AI-generated report summary This inaugural annual report for Derwentside IRC, based on weekly visits, finds the centre safe and well-run, with detainees treated humanely and with respect. However, its remote location and poor communications infrastructure contribute to unequal and sometimes inhumane treatment compared to male IRCs. Key concerns include delays in releasing vulnerable women due to accommodation issues, incomplete facilities, and a lack of mental health cover at weekends.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

There are unacceptable delays in releasing vulnerable women due to difficulties in finding suitable accommodation.
Concerns exist regarding the governance, techniques, and reporting requirements around the use of force.
The remote location of Derwentside and inadequate communications infrastructure lead to inhumane and unequal treatment for women compared to men, including long, frequent journeys and difficult family contact.
The centre remains incomplete, with important facilities like the care suite and cultural kitchen yet to open.
There is a lack of mental health cover at weekends and public holidays, which is unequal to provision in male IRCs.
The absence of a legal time limit for immigration detention adds to the anxiety and stress experienced by detained women.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

North West and Midlands STHF

Published 29 Jun 2023

AI-generated report summary The Board has resumed actual visits to most locations, with two exceptions, and consists of three active members who continue their duties robustly, despite being under-strength. Key concerns include the persistent issue of detainees being denied access to prescribed medication in facilities without full-time medical professionals, and the slow rectification of structural and equipment deficiencies. Positive developments include the resolution of airside pass issuance and observations of humane and professional treatment of detainees.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Denial of access to prescribed medication for detainees in holding rooms and reporting centres, a concern repeated for five years.
Lack of full-time medical professionals at facilities other than Manchester RSTHF, leading to reliance on ambulance services.
Slow pace in rectifying structural and equipment deficiencies across all monitored facilities.
Excessive and repeated transfers of female detainees between Derwentside and southern IRCs.
The Board is significantly under-strength in active members.
Restrictive office space for DCOs at some reporting centres, impacting duties like searches.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Leicester

Published 28 Jun 2023

Self-harm: 226 Assaults: 49 Staff assaults: 38

AI-generated report summary HMP Leicester is well-led, maintaining a relatively safe environment with reduced self-harm and assaults on staff, and improved reception facilities. Despite generally good physical and mental healthcare, significant concerns persist regarding long delays for mentally ill prisoners awaiting transfer, which can result in inhumane segregation. Staffing shortages have severely impacted key working and the regime on weekends, while aging infrastructure requires substantial capital investment, particularly for the gym. Resettlement efforts are hindered by a high proportion of men released without accommodation and underdeveloped substance misuse services.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Long delays for seriously mentally ill prisoners awaiting transfer to secure psychiatric care, leading to inhumane treatment in segregation.
Increasing numbers of remand prisoners awaiting court hearings, with 66 exceeding custody time limits by January 2023.
A high proportion (40%) of men are released from HMP Leicester without accommodation.
The viability of the gym, a vital resource, is threatened by a leaking roof, bowing floor, and aging equipment, requiring significant capital investment.
Substance misuse services are underdeveloped and the 'My Recovery Unit' is not operating as intended, alongside a concerning rise in illegal drug misuse.
Key working provision remains severely reduced (only 22% of expected hours) due to staff shortages.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Garth

Published 27 Jun 2023

AI-generated report summary HMP Garth, a Category B training prison, grapples with severe staff recruitment and retention issues, resulting in a largely inexperienced workforce and an ineffective key worker scheme. The restrictive regime, a consequence of staffing problems and post-pandemic recovery, limits prisoners' time out of cell and access to purposeful activity. Key concerns include the deteriorating estate, inadequate provisions for disabled individuals, and the persistent challenges faced by IPP prisoners, alongside ongoing issues with property transfers and an understaffed Offender Management Unit.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Persistent staff recruitment and retention problems, leading to an inexperienced workforce, ineffective key worker schemes, and cross-deployment.
Deteriorating prison infrastructure and inadequate maintenance, particularly concerning disability access and the unsuitable healthcare waiting room.
The ongoing injustice and negative impact of the IPP sentence on prisoners, with governmental unwillingness to resolve the issue.
A restrictive regime that confines prisoners to cells for lengthy periods, limiting purposeful activity, education, and socialisation.
Significant understaffing and inexperience within the Offender Management Unit, hindering prisoner progression and effective sentence planning.
Problems with the transfer of prisoner property between establishments, resulting in loss and damage.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Charter Flight

Published 23 Jun 2023

AI-generated report summary The CFMT monitored 12 charter removal and relocation operations in 2022, finding that returnees were generally treated kindly but experienced significant issues. Key concerns included prolonged confinement in vehicles, inconsistent use of force, and inadequate interpreting services, often exacerbating detainee distress. Despite some positive changes in escorting practice, the Board raised recommendations for HOIE and its contractor, particularly regarding vulnerability, financial preparation, and transit times.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Prolonged and unacceptable confinement of returnees in parked vehicles at IRCs and airports, exacerbating distress and often extending for many hours.
Inconsistent and sometimes excessive use of physical restraints and force on returnees, including vulnerable individuals, with concerns about proportionality and duration.
Inadequate provision and use of interpreting facilities, leading to a lack of clear information for non-English speaking returnees and reliance on other detainees for interpretation.
Morally questionable removal of vulnerable individuals, particularly those with mental health issues, despite their acute distress.
Poor preparation of returnees regarding financial support and the unresolved issue of uncashable postal orders from prisons.
The continued use of airports far from IRCs, leading to extended road journeys and confinement times, despite repeated recommendations against this practice.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Humber

Published 23 Jun 2023

Report year 2022 PRISON

Kirklevington Grange

Published 22 Jun 2023 · 207 prisoners

Self-harm: 4 Assaults: 3 Staff assaults: 0

AI-generated report summary HMP/YOI Kirklevington Grange is a well-run Category D open prison providing a safe and humane environment with high standards of healthcare and strong staff-prisoner relationships. The IMB noted significant efforts in preparing prisoners for resettlement, including good access to work and education, contributing to low complaint levels. Key challenges include delays in new accommodation block construction, persistent issues with property transfers between prisons, and addressing the poor literacy skills of some incoming prisoners.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

No definite date for the construction of three new accommodation blocks, keeping the prison's capacity below optimal levels.
Persistent issues with property transfers between prisons, often resulting in long delays and lost belongings for prisoners.
Many incoming prisoners have very poor literacy and numeracy skills (E3 or below), and there is insufficient tutor provision and funding to address this.
Showers and toilets in F, A, B, and C units remain shabby and cramped despite recent overhauls.
Problems with the contracted food supplier failing to deliver basic ordered items, causing prisoner dissatisfaction.
Lack of clear information and support for IPP prisoners regarding changes to their sentences.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Huntercombe

Published 20 Jun 2023 · 469 prisoners

Self-harm: 96 Assaults: 57

AI-generated report summary HMP Huntercombe returned to a full regime in 2022, and the Board commended staff for their work. However, significant concerns remain, particularly regarding the ongoing detention of foreign nationals beyond their sentence expiry due to Home Office delays in processing deportation orders. The prison also faces challenges with an antiquated heating system, water ingress in healthcare, reduced education provision due to staffing, and issues with inter-prison property transfers.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The ongoing incarceration of foreign national prisoners (IS91s) beyond their sentence expiry date under convicted criminal conditions, with no improvement since 2020.
An increasing number of foreign national prisoners arriving without deportation orders or proper Home Office triaging, leading to delays beyond their early release dates.
The antiquated heating and hot water systems frequently break down, causing frustration and requiring expensive temporary solutions.
Persistent water ingress in the healthcare facility makes it an unsuitable working environment.
The education curriculum has been reduced due to staffing issues, with popular courses like art, barbering, and the full IAG diploma being curtailed.
Significant issues persist with property transfers between prisons despite assurances of a new national framework.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

High Down

Published 14 Jun 2023 · 1,090 prisoners

Self-harm: 721 Assaults: 157 Staff assaults: 85

AI-generated report summary HMP High Down transitioned to a Category C training and resettlement prison in 2022, implementing gradual regime changes that have positively impacted prisoner life, including improved time out of cell and new community units. The Board noted reductions in self-harm and assaults, and commended improvements in induction and the visits hall. However, significant concerns remain regarding the welfare of IPP prisoners, long delays in transferring mentally unwell individuals, and a high proportion of prisoners leaving without settled accommodation. Persistent issues with lost property, inconsistent key work, and a lack of high-quality employment opportunities continue to hinder effective resettlement and overall humane treatment.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The unresolved problem of prisoners serving Indeterminate Sentences for Public Protection (IPPs).
Significant delays in transferring mentally unwell prisoners to secure mental health units, resulting in inappropriate holding in the CSRU.
The high number of prisoners released without settled accommodation.
Persistent issues with missing and lost property, causing distress and requiring compensation.
Lack of high-quality employment and training opportunities, hindering effective resettlement.
The disproportionate application of the incentives scheme, particularly affecting black prisoners, and the inconsistent delivery of key work.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

Highpoint

Published 9 Jun 2023

Self-harm: 322 Assaults: 185 Staff assaults: 97

AI-generated report summary HMP Highpoint, a Category C training and resettlement prison with an operational capacity of 1,270, experienced a decrease in self-harm but a 28% increase in violent incidents during the reporting year. Persistent concerns include significant maintenance backlogs by GFSL, ongoing issues with lost prisoner property, and restricted library access. Despite these challenges, healthcare provision maintained a 'green' rating, and the key worker scheme continued its development.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The continued psychological harm to prisoners serving IPP sentences due to no identified release date.
Ongoing issues with lost or delayed prisoner property, leading to frustration and negatively impacting wellbeing.
Persistent poor performance and delays in maintenance work by GFSL, with a significant backlog of repairs.
Staffing levels and frequent redeployments in the Offender Management Unit lead to high caseloads and impact prisoner support.
The unaddressed security and safety risk posed by unrepaired netting, increasing opportunities for contraband throwovers.
Restricted library access continues to negatively impact prisoner education and progression opportunities.
An unwelcome 28% increase in violent incidents during the reporting year.
Inconsistent activation of body-worn video cameras during use of force incidents.
The Listener scheme, important for self-harm prevention, has still not restarted due to staff training issues.

Report year 2022 PRISON Concerns

South and East 2022-23 Short Term Holding Facilities (STHF)

Published 8 Jun 2023

AI-generated report summary The Independent Monitoring Board for South and East STHFs observed increasing numbers of individuals held for extended periods, sometimes over 24 hours and up to 100 hours, in facilities designed for short-term detention. The Board highlights inhumane sleeping conditions due to the removal of mats, inadequate privacy, and lack of exercise facilities and showers. Key concerns include significant delays in facility maintenance and capacity issues, alongside insufficient provisions for vulnerable individuals and those with disabilities.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

People are regularly detained for long periods in STHFs designed for short stays, sometimes for over 24 hours and up to 100 hours.
Inhumane sleeping conditions exist due to the removal of sleeping mats, forcing detainees to sleep on the floor, coupled with a general lack of privacy, showers, and exercise areas.
Significant delays are observed in resolving maintenance and repair problems across facilities, impacting safety and habitability.
There is a lack of commitment to resolving various safety issues, including trip hazards, untried panic alarms, and unsuitable areas for hot meal preparation.
Capacity issues persist at airport STHFs, and the needs of those with limited mobility, sight, or hearing impairment are still not being adequately addressed.
Delays by Clearsprings in transferring detainees lead to extended periods of detention, with some awaiting bail transport for over 12 hours.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Lindholme

Published 6 Jun 2023 · 926 prisoners

Self-harm: 269 Assaults: 116 Staff assaults: 34

AI-generated report summary HMP Lindholme successfully transitioned to a full regime post-Covid, with many prisoners feeling safe, though issues like overcrowding and double-occupancy cells persist. Healthcare needs are generally met, but access challenges remain. The Board highlights concerns regarding property issues, the complaints system, and the need for improved resettlement and IPP prisoner progression.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

Overcrowding throughout the prison estate, exacerbating difficulties for staff and negatively impacting prisoners' mental health and resettlement.
The continued use of cells designed for single occupancy but authorised for double occupancy, undermining efforts for fair and humane treatment.
The high number of IPP prisoners, particularly licence recalls, with insufficient emphasis on preparing them for release.
Persistent problems with prisoners' property going missing, both during inter-prison transfers and internally, leading to high numbers of complaints.
Significant dissatisfaction with the complaints system, including missed timescales for responses and poor quality of replies.
Lack of effective resettlement planning, with many prisoners being released without structured pre-release programmes.
Insufficient workshop attendance and a backlog of prisoners waiting for offending behaviour programmes due to staffing levels.

Report year 2023 PRISON Concerns

Full Sutton

Published 1 Jun 2023 · 580 prisoners

Self-harm: 206 Assaults: 35 Staff assaults: 38

AI-generated report summary This report for HMP Full Sutton (Jan-Dec 2022) highlights persistent staff shortages, which led to regime lockdowns and reduced time out of cell. Despite these challenges, the prison maintained a safe and humane environment, showing improvements in education and complaint handling. Key concerns include drug testing levels, inconsistent equalities meetings, and the ongoing development of the STEP unit, with a shortfall in psychological and nursing staff also noted.

AI-generated summary of key concerns

The continuing need to develop the STEP unit and clarify its role in breaking the cycle of segregation.
Inconsistent holding of equalities meetings and a limited focus on equality matters.
Drug testing levels remaining low, with a large proportion of expected tests not being carried out.
A significant shortfall in qualified psychologists affecting consultancy, parole, and Category A reporting.
A gap in suitable offending behaviour programmes, particularly for violence reduction, impacting prisoner progression.
The failure to introduce Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous groups, initially planned for 2021.

Report year 2022 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