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Reports published 27 July

Published:

HMP & YOI Brinsford

Type of inspection: Full inspection

Dates of inspection: 14–30 April 2026

Summary of findings: Violence and drug use were serious problems. Living conditions were poor, many prisoners spent too much time in their cells, and attendance at work and education activities was not good enough. The high amount of force used against prisoners, including the frequent and sometimes inappropriate use of PAVA spray; limited support for resettlement; long waits for transfers to hospital for prisoners with serious mental illnesses; and inadequate access to the library and careers information were among the other issues at Brinsford.

Points to note: Despite the many problems identified at this inspection, there were grounds for optimism. The well-regarded governor had ambitious plans and was actively supporting his team. Encouragingly, staff retention – which had been a significant challenge – had improved.

Read the report: HMP & YOI Brinsford

HMP & YOI New Hall

Type of inspection: Full inspection

Dates of inspection: 20–30 April 2026

Summary of findings: The new governor had developed a good understanding of the jail and was well-respected by staff and prisoners. The atmosphere in the prison was calm, with strong staff-prisoner relationships and good support for women in crisis, though seriously mentally unwell women waited too long to be transferred to secure hospitals. Health care had improved, most women were allocated to education and work, and there were positive initiatives in place to support rehabilitation.

Points to note: Although it had recently reduced, the rate of positive mandatory drug tests over the last 12 months was the highest in women’s prisons and searching processes were ineffective. Despite considerable effort by staff, 9% of women had been released homeless in the last year.

Read the report: HMP & YOI New Hall