Report published 22 May 2023

Report on an independent review of progress at HMP Pentonville

Dates of review: 11-13 April 2023

Summary of findings: The prison had made reasonable progress in a number of areas, including support for early days and health care. Overcrowding remained a serious concern, with numbers even higher than at the original inspection and with plans to increase it further despite the detrimental impact on conditions and the regime. Prisoners still spent far too long locked in their cells.

Points to note: A neurodiversity unit had been created to support prisoners who struggled to cope in the main prison environment. Without the support of G1, it was probable that they would have engaged in violence, self-harm or general disruption elsewhere in the prison. This was commendable work, showing what leaders at Pentonville can achieve when population and staff resources are adequately managed.

Read the report: HMP Pentonville