Ministers unveil urgent action plan for HMP Woodhill
It comes in the wake of a critical inspection
Last updated 29th Sep 2023
Ministers have announced a comprehensive Action Plan to address immediate concerns at HMP Woodhill following a critical inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP) last month.
The inspection prompted an Urgent Notification, necessitating a response within 28 days to outline crucial steps for improvement.
In a bid to reinforce safety and security, additional prison staff will be deployed, accompanied by specialized training to tackle issues related to prisoner violence. To enhance living conditions, the prison will undergo a thorough cell condition survey, identifying necessary repairs. Industrial-grade cleaning will be implemented across the facility to elevate overall standards.
A significant move involves a temporary reduction in the prison population. This strategic step aims to ensure the effectiveness of safety measures while allowing for the immediate implementation of the Action Plan.
Moreover, a new Education, Skills, and Work Manager will be appointed to improve prison education and enhance the quality of time prisoners spend outside their cells.
Prisons Minister Damian Hinds, acknowledging the severity of the findings, expressed a commitment to urgent improvements. "Extra safety staff, specialized mental health support, and appropriate living conditions will ensure that offenders have the support they need to turn their backs on crime and live law-abiding lives upon release," he stated.
The Urgent Notification process, instituted by the government in 2017, underscores the commitment to swift and decisive action in response to serious concerns identified by prison inspectors. The proposed measures align with the broader goal of fostering rehabilitation and reducing reoffending rates within the prison system.