MPs have issued a warning that offenders are more likely to commit additional crimes upon release from prison due to the ongoing crisis within the prison system. The Justice Committee of the Commons highlighted the detrimental effects of overcrowding, staff shortages, and deteriorating infrastructure on the prisons’ ability to provide rehabilitation services. A report revealed a significant failure to meet minimum time out-of-cell requirements, with many inmates spending over 22 hours a day locked up.
The dire living conditions observed in prisons raised concerns about potential violations of human rights laws. The lack of meaningful activities for prisoners, with 50% not participating in education or work programs, was deemed unacceptable by the committee. They emphasized the importance of purposeful activities like education and work in the rehabilitation process but noted inconsistencies and priorities in their delivery across prisons.
The committee called on the government to publish a comprehensive plan to enhance both prisoner participation and the quality of education within prisons. Additionally, a study by the prison officers union revealed that staff feel undervalued, stressed, and exposed to high levels of abuse and violence. The survey indicated widespread stress among officers, a need for modernization in prisons, and insufficient activity space for inmates under their care.
General Secretary of the POA, Steve Gillan, emphasized the urgent need for action to address understaffing, overcrowding, and violence in prisons. Chair of the Justice Committee, Labour MP Andy Slaughter, criticized the current state of prison rehabilitation efforts, citing critical pressures impeding progress. The Prisons minister acknowledged the crisis in the prison system and outlined ongoing initiatives to address overcrowding, improve rehabilitation services, and enhance public safety.
The need for immediate action to tackle the root issues affecting the prison system and prioritize effective rehabilitation programs was underscored by MPs and stakeholders in the justice sector.