Unlocking insights: how data can help transform prisons

Prisons collect a vast amount of information. Some of it is sent to HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) to support central decision-making, some is used locally to improve outcomes for prisoners, and some data –unfortunately – never seems to get used at all.

At HMI Prisons, data and evidence are central to our work. We’re always encouraged when we see prisons using data effectively during inspections. However, this is not the case everywhere.

Where data are falling short

In our recent review on the applications process, we found some prisons didn’t track how quickly they responded to prisoner requests, despite delays contributing to prisoner frustrations. In our thematic inspection ‘Time to care’, women told us that having something to do helped them to cope with life in prison, but one establishment couldn’t provide data on how many women were engaged in full-time activity. And in collaboration with HMI Probation, we highlighted that HMPPS did not have access to data about the number of women released from a particular prison who were in sustainable accommodation three months after release – so they were unable to see if housing work completed at an establishment was effective.

We understand the challenges – especially time constraints – but we’ve also seen examples of prisons using data to drive real change. This is what we’d like to see more consistently:

1. Use of meaningful and accurate performance data

Data can highlight strengths, weaknesses, and emerging trends. It can also help uncover the reasons behind those trends and inform key decisions. While many prisons discuss data regularly – often daily – it doesn’t always lead to meaningful action or positive outcomes for prisoners.

But we have seen prisons use performance data well:

• At HMP Birmingham, leaders used self-harm data effectively to determine what measures had led to reductions, and lessons learnt were established through a case study involving the prisoner.
• HMP Brixton tracked the timeliness of application responses daily. Outstanding cases were flagged, improving oversight and speeding up resolutions.

HMP Birmingham (left) and HMP Brixton (right)

2. Find out more about prisoners

Surveys, data, and consultation groups are powerful tools for understanding prisoners and what matters to them. We conduct prisoner surveys during inspections to find out what prisoners think: this informs our inspections and highlights areas for further exploration. Prisons can also run their own, more targeted surveys.

• HMP Hatfield surveyed prisoners before release, including questions about safety. The insights fed directly into safety meetings and helped identify emerging threats.
• HMP Kirklevington Grange used data on neurodivergent prisoners to improve equity in access to employment and job opportunities.

And when prisoners share their views, it’s vital to close the loop:

• At Wetherby young offender institution, a quarterly newsletter – ‘Change it or explain it’ – was provided to children following equalities forums. It showed the issues raised and what had been done as a direct result.

Feedback board at HMP Hatfield (left), exterior of HMP Kirklevington Grange (centre) and wing at HMYOI Wetherby (right)

3. Understand the challenges faced by staff

We also survey staff during inspections, to understand what is important to them and to get a sense of what it is like to work in the establishment. Prisons can do the same through questionnaires or focus groups. This helps identify what’s working well and where risks may lie. Frontline officers, who work closely with prisoners every day, are well-placed to share insights, highlight issues, and suggest improvements.

The bottom line

When used well, accurate data can lead to better performing prisons and improved outcomes for prisoners. It’s not just about collecting information; it’s about using it to make informed, meaningful changes.