Damning report finds HMP Bedford has 'infestation of rats and cockroaches'
The prisons inspectorate has found high levels of violence at the Category B men's facility
Last updated 17th Nov 2023
A highly critical report has found HMP Bedford is one of the most violent in the country, with 'squalid' conditions for both staff and inmates.
It's the fourth time officials from HM Chief Inspector of Prisons have visited the Category B men's facility since 2016, with prison authorities again being told to make major changes.
Levels of violence were found to be high, with levels of assaults against staff among the highest in the UK.
Bedford has the third highest rates of self-harm in the country with an 'inadequate' mental health provision for the facility.
Inspectors saw 'too many' examples of excessive force being used against inmates, with 'unprofessional behaviour' among staff.
Conditions at the prison were found to be 'squalid', with three quarters of inmates living in overcrowded cells, many for 22 hours a day.
Wings of the prison are said to be infested with rats and cockroaches. Some cells had windows broken and lakc mould on the walls.
During one incident on the segregation unit staff were forced to don wellies after a sewage pipe leaked during heavy rain.
Prisoners were said to be 'frustrated' and unable to do things like apply for jobs, complete education courses or contact family members. The complaints system was found to be in 'disarray.'
In one particularly shocking incident an inmate who was supposed to be under constant supervision escaped.
The report notes the prison governor had taken some action to address issues in the 11 months since her appointment, but there were 'delays' to improvments.
The government minister in charge of prisons will be compelled to respond to the report within 28 days.
HMP Bedford has been on its current site since 1801 and currently has capacity for around 900 people held on remand from Luton Crown Court, as well as other local courts.
The facility was the scene of a riot in 2016 and was placed into 'special measures' two years later due to issues with violence and staffing.