HMP High Down

What we found

Leaders at High Down had done some positive work in response to the earlier full inspection however, despite extensive steps to try to prevent drugs getting into the prison, they continued to be a serious problem with positive drug test results remaining as high as during the 2023 inspection. Violence also remained high, and had risen over the last nine months with a clear direct link between drugs, drug-related debt and violence.

Points to note: The prison had improved the management of acutely mentally unwell prisoners, with almost all transfers to secure mental hospitals under the Mental Health Act since the earlier inspection taking place within the recommended timeline, and increased health care involvement in the segregation unit including psychiatry and psychology.