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Report published 21 September

HMP Leicester

Type of inspection: independent review of progress (IRP)

Dates of inspection: 10–12 August 2026

Summary of findings: Leaders had responded positively to the concerns followed up in this IRP, with stronger leadership, better governance and improved performance oversight across the prison. Health care partnerships had improved, resulting in better access to services and stronger management of long-term health conditions. Daily information sharing between prison and health care teams enabled emerging risks to be identified and addressed quickly.

Points to note: Violence had reduced overall, due to the fall in assaults on staff, and there had been a notable fall in the positive mandatory drug testing rate. However, prisoner-on-prisoner violence remained high, many cells were still worn and in poor condition, and some patients continued to wait too long for transfer to specialist mental health beds.

Read the report: HMP Leicester