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Reports published 5 May

Published:

HMP Leeds

Type of inspection: Independent review of progress

Dates of inspection: 23–25 March 2026

Summary of findings: Recognising the high population turnover, the new governor had focused on improving early days and resettlement support. Progress had also been made in staff-prisoner relationships, consultation with prisoners, staffing levels in health care, and education. However, significant issues persisted; the prison was overcrowded, drugs were prevalent, and men were not getting enough time out of their cells. There had been three self-inflicted deaths since the inspection in July 2025.

Points to note: Although concerns about acutely mentally unwell men were better escalated, the continuing shortage of hospital places meant there were still long delays to access care.

Read the report: Leeds

Devon, Cornwall and Dorset court custody facilities

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 2-14 March 2026

Summary of findings: Court custody agencies continued to work well together, with a clear focus on detainee welfare and conditions. Staff were committed to meeting detainees’ needs, despite fatigue and frustration caused by unpredictable and often long working hours. The geography of the region continued to hinder effective delivery and was further complicated by issues in recruiting and retaining staff.

More positively, facilities were clean, food and health care had improved and children were rarely held. Detainees in Devon and Cornwall could access support from CASS+ (Community Advice & Support Service).

Points to note: Many detainees were delivered late to court, which disrupted the scheduling of court business and meant they frequently spent too long in custody. Limited spaces in reception prisons resulted in out‑of‑area placements or overnight stays in police cells.

Read the report: Devon, Cornwall and Dorset