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HMP Usk and HMP/YOI Prescoed: safe, stable and focused on rehabilitation

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Two prisons in Wales were delivering good outcomes for prisoners, according to a new report from HM Inspectorate of Prisons.

Overwhelmingly positive cultures were at the heart of both Usk and Prescoed – which fall under the same operational management but are located a few miles apart – and were helping to drive forward a programme of interventions and activities to reduce prisoners’ risk and prepare them for release.

Strong staff-prisoner relationships were contributing to low levels of violence, illicit drug use, use of force and self-harm. This meant prisoners could participate fully in the regime and take advantage of the opportunities available. Across the sites, nearly all were engaged in purposeful activity, including day release to access external employment. Men were able to study a range of educational and vocational subjects that resulted in accredited qualifications. The fully working commercial farm at Prescoed gave prisoners the chance to learn and work in an authentic setting within the prison walls.

Most prisoners at Usk had more than nine hours a day unlocked and benefitted from evening association. At Prescoed, prisoners had keys to their own rooms and did not have to return to their units until 9pm. Structured activities, including chess club, arts and crafts, band practice and Welsh language classes, were offered and there were tailored events for prisoners over 50, who made up 42% of the population at Usk and 15% at Prescoed.

Attractive external areas at both prisons further supported well-being and Usk had created an accessible sensory garden for prisoners who had limited access to green space.

When we inspected Usk and Prescoed in 2021 we reported very positively, and at this inspection, we were pleased to find that outcomes for prisoners had got even better. At both sites, most surveyed prisoners said their experiences would make them less likely to reoffend. Both establishments were focused on rehabilitating those in their care and the Governor and his staff should be congratulated for what they are achieving.
HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Charlie Taylor

Notes to editors

  1. This inspection took place between 12–22 May 2025.
  2. A copy of the full report, published on 12 August 2025, can be found on the HM Inspectorate of Prisons website at: https://hmiprisons.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/  
  3. HM Inspectorate of Prisons is an independent inspectorate, inspecting places of detention to report on conditions and treatment and promote positive outcomes for those detained and the public.
  4. Please email media@hmiprisons.gov.uk if you would like more information.