Reports published 20 February 2023

HMP Bullingdon

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 24 October – 3 November 2022

Summary of findings: The prison was reasonably safe and respectful, but rehabilitation and release planning had declined and were now not good enough. The prison faced severe staffing issues, and most prisoners spent up to 23 hours a day locked in their cells.

Points to note: The prison had introduced welfare checks to support prisoners at points of potential vulnerability such as after court hearings or changes to family circumstances. Work on disability awareness was good, and health promotion work impressive. The prison was also managing more complex cases effectively.

Read the report: HMP Bullingdon

---

HMP Wakefield

Type of inspection: full inspection

Dates of inspection: 31 October – 11 November 2022

Summary of findings: Strong leadership and competent, confident staff. Keywork was used effectively, and underpinned staff-prisoner relationships including offender management and risk reduction. Health care delivery was undermined by a lack of staff.

Points to note: Prisoners nearing the end of their sentence, with three years left to serve, attended an information event to help prepare them for life outside the prison, including the rules and requirements of living in approved premises. The event was supported by representatives of a number of departments involved in reducing reoffending and was well attended.

Read the report: HMP Wakefield

---

HMP Forest Bank

Type of inspection: independent review of progress

Dates of inspection: 9 – 11 January 2023

Summary of findings: Improved early days processes and support, and better time out of cell than we usually see. Levels of violence remained high, but the prison understood the root causes and initiatives showed early promise of addressing this.

Points to note: An additional fitness facility was working well to incentivise positive behaviour

Read the report: HMP Forest Bank