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Reports published 4 August

Published:

HMP/YOI Lincoln

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 28 April – 15 May 2025

Summary of findings: Levels of violence, drug ingress and self-harm were lower than at similar prisons, and standards of behaviour and cleanliness on the wings were good. Prisoners were generally supported well by staff, education was good, and the reading strategy was engaging non- and low-level readers. The standard of decoration was high, and Bertie’s restaurant in the visits hall allowed prisoners and their families to dine together.

Points to note: Although there were many positives, problems including the heating system, medicines handling procedures and the amount of time some prisoners spent locked up, needed to be addressed.

Read the report: Lincoln

HMP Onley

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 6–22 May 2025

Summary of findings: Inadequate security was allowing drugs into the prison; 34% of men were found positive in random mandatory testing over a 12-month period. This problem was accompanied by increased levels of violence. The recruitment of new officers was a success, but their lack of experience contributed to the frustration of prisoners, who could not get basic things done. Some skills development provision – the Greene King hospitality training, for example – was excellent, but too many men were under- or unemployed.

Points to note: The prison had developed a team of trusted, trained prisoners who offered support to neurodivergent prisoners throughout the jail.

Read the report: Onley