Skip to content

All content is available under the Open Government Licence v3.0, except where otherwise stated.

To view this licence, visit:
https://nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3

or write to:
Information Policy Team,
The National Archives,
Kew,
London TW9 4DU

or email: psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk.

This publication is available at:
https://hmiprisons.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk.

© Crown copyright

Report published 23 March

Published:

Report published on HMP Maidstone.

HMP Maidstone

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates: 1–11 December 2025

Summary of findings: The prison was reasonably safe and respectful, with a settled atmosphere and strong staff-prisoner relationships. Key work had improved and most prisoners reported respectful treatment. Although aspects of education and work required improvement, the prison had introduced a better‑structured curriculum, reading strategy, wider enrichment and strong neurodiversity support. Communal areas were clean despite the ageing infrastructure, refurbished showers had been installed, and PE facilities were good. Ongoing challenges included the availability of illicit drugs and minimal CCTV coverage, though leaders were addressing this.

Points to note: Although the prison specialised in holding foreign nationals, delays in Home Office decisions continued to cause these prisoners significant anxiety. The Home Office aimed to give at least 30 days’ notice of detention or release, but only a third received this, with many given seven days or less. This created real challenges for effective release planning.

Read the report: HMP Maidstone