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  1. What we found

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HMP Elmley

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Open document

HMP Elmley IRP (2026) web (PDF, 1.3 MB)

Report on an independent review of progress at HMP Elmley by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons 16–18 February 2026.

What we found (Back to top)

The governor and his team had made good or reasonable progress addressing many of the concerns raised at the inspection in 2025. The drugs problem was being tackled by better use of security intelligence, more effective window grilles and improved support for prisoners. An extensive refurbishment programme had improved living conditions and work to improve teaching and promote literacy was underway.

Points to note: New contracts had reduced the amount of teaching available, threatening the ability of the prison to sustain the progress made in education.