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Reports published 26 May

Published:

HMP Bullingdon

Type of inspection: Independent review of progress

Dates of inspection: 13–15 April 2026

Summary of findings: Drug use remained high and work to improve physical security had not started. Over half of the population was locked up during the day and prisoners were not getting the help they needed to progress. A new head of health care had begun to improve standards, and Ofsted found some progress in the prison’s work on reading and employability skills, but the curriculum, teaching quality and attendance were still not good enough.

Points to note: The recent appointment of an experienced governor and commitment of hardworking staff were encouraging, but officer shortfalls meant there was limited interaction with prisoners. Urgent attention from national leaders was needed to help the prison overcome the significant challenges it faced.

Read the report: HMP Bullingdon

HMP Winchester

Type of inspection: full inspection

Date of inspection: 9–19 February 2026

Summary of findings: Leadership had improved and the prison had begun to stabilise, but many significant weaknesses remained, with ageing infrastructure, overcrowding and staff shortages continuing to pose challenges. Better support was needed for the high number of prisoners with complex needs. Too many prisoners spent long periods locked in their cells, with limited access to work, education or other activities. Health services, family contact and offender management were strengths.

Points to note: Assaults and serious assaults on prisoners were among the highest in reception prisons, and assaults on staff remained higher than in most similar jails. Violence was driven by drug availability, debt and bullying. Living conditions were poor, with many prisoners sharing very small cells, and there were problems with damp, leaks and graffiti, particularly on the Westhill unit.

Read the report: HMP Winchester