Reports published 19 August

HMP Nottingham

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 13–24 May 2024

Summary of findings: The experienced and capable governor and his team were providing stability but the prison was under strain from constant pressure to accommodate new arrivals, move sentenced prisoners on and operate the early release scheme (ESCL).

There were high levels of violence, particularly assaults between prisoners, illicit drugs were too easily available and self-harm remained high. Many prisoners were locked in their cells for 22 hours a day, and on staff training days, men spent 23 hours behind doors without a shower. Despite high levels of need, education classrooms were unoccupied. Public protection arrangements remained weak.

Points to note: The complex population included some mentally unwell prisoners waiting for transfer to a secure hospital. Despite the segregation team’s best efforts, they were held in wholly unsuitable conditions. A quarter of prisoners on the ESCL scheme were homeless, resulting in inevitable recalls.

Read the report: Nottingham

HMP Durham

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 30 April – 16 May 2024

Summary of findings: A new governor and deputy brought some much-needed stability to this ageing, overcrowded reception prison, but most prisoners spent 22 or more hours a day locked in their cells forcing them to choose between having a shower, collecting medication, using the kiosk, or getting fresh air. There was a thriving illicit drugs market, which was linked to the increasing violence. The physical fabric of the prison needed attention, with many cells and communal areas dilapidated.

Points to note: The use of PAVA incapacitant spray was the highest of any reception prison and footage showed that some staff used it when other options were available.

Read the report: Durham