In an urgent notification letter to Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor highlighted a disturbing rise in the number of weapons and illicit items found in recent months, marking one of the highest rates among all adult men’s prisons. Additionally, 39 per cent of prisoners tested positive for drug use over the past year.
Reading Charlie Taylor’s words today comes as no surprise to us. We have long been aware of the drug crisis plaguing the prison system. Through our work with offenders and ex-offenders, we have gathered data that reinforces this grim reality. Our tailored support programme for ex-offenders and those at risk of crime was meticulously designed using this data and crafted by the community, aiming to offer the best chance for those seeking positive change upon their release.
What did shock us, however, is the revelation that this prison is also the most violent among all adult men’s prisons in England and Wales, with the highest rate of serious assaults.
You may recall our time spent in several prisons across the Northwest in 2022, where we conducted workshops that were incredibly well-received. The impact was so profound that even the radio reported on how prisoners, instead of rioting, were petitioning for our return. Unfortunately, due to limited funding, we were unable to continue these workshops, and H.M.P. could not cover the costs. Despite ongoing discussions about further workshops, we continue to face the same obstacles: no funding, no support. So, it is no surprise that the inspector is now reporting these alarming statistics.
If the government is unwilling to support passionate individuals like those here at Homeless House, who are dedicated to providing positive alternatives within these prisons, then meaningful change cannot be expected.
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