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Reports published 18 May

Published:

HMP Aylesbury

Type of inspection: Full inspection

Dates of inspection: 2–12 February 2026

Summary of findings: Focused leaders and committed staff were driving improvements at Aylesbury, but the prison had more to do. Self-harm was increasing, the education curriculum was not yet broad enough, and prisoners were not getting the help they needed to progress during their sentences and prepare for release.

Points to note: Although high rates of drug use were still undermining the stability of the prison, work to support those under the influence of illicit substances was good and the incentivised substance-free living unit was well developed.

Read the report: Aylesbury

HMP & YOI Downview

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 2–12 February 2026

Summary of findings: Downview was safe, well run and had improved since the last inspection. Overall, staff-prisoner relationships were strong, but some officers were abrupt and dismissive to the women in their care. Women had good access to purposeful activity during the week, but too many were locked in their cells at weekends.

Points to note: Patients needing treatment under the Mental Health Act waited too long to be transferred to secure hospitals. Staff shortages in the offender management unit hampered women’s ability to progress through their sentence. Too many women left the jail homeless or without sustainable accommodation.

Read the report: Downview