HMP Channings Wood – good progress but inconsistency in care
HMP Channings Wood - good progress but inconsistency in care
In 2019 the prison had been rated ‘not sufficiently good’ in all four of the Inspectorate’s healthy prison tests, but outcomes were now judged to be reasonably good in safety, respect, and rehabilitation and release planning.
Leaders had a clear sense of purpose and commitment.
The governor had an impressive and ambitious vision for the prison, coupled with a credible pandemic recovery plan. His passion and strong commitment to deliver on the prison’s training and resettlement purpose was underpinned by a commendable personal pledge to equip properly every prisoner leaving Channings Wood for a successful release.
It was disappointing to see that despite this “rehabilitative ethos”, Channings Wood was not providing adequate care for some prisoners. Although the majority reported good care and feeling safe, there was a minority who spoke about credible allegations of violence and bullying, and inspectors were concerned that not only were these prisoners not sufficiently safeguarded, but that they were being held in dirty and ill-equipped cells on arrival.
In-cell phones had been introduced which helped prisoners keep in contact with family and friends. This was further enhanced by a new strategy which strengthened family ties through social media, newsletters, email, and celebratory events.
The availability of offending behaviour programmes was varied, but inspectors were impressed by Outside the Box, which provided excellent support to prisoners with a personality disorder, neurodivergent needs, or learning difficulties. Prisoners received decent support planning for release, for example help opening a bank account, obtaining ID, and getting a job.
Mr Taylor concluded: “While the ambition for the prison was encouraging, it remains critical that leaders still pay attention to the fundamentals and safeguard the care and conditions for all their prisoners.”
Notes to editors
- Read the Channings Wood report, published on 21 October 2022.
- HM Inspectorate of Prisons is an independent inspectorate, inspecting places of detention to report on conditions and treatment and promote positive outcomes for those detained and the public.
- HMP Channings Wood is a category C adult male training and resettlement prison.
- At the time of this inspection, the prison held 662 prisoners.
- Inspectors identified three examples of notable positive practice during this inspection.
- This inspection took place between 11 and 18–22 July 2022.
- Please email media@hmiprisons.gov.uk if you would like more information.