Rates of violence continue to cause concern at HMP Bedford

An inspection into HMP Bedford has revealed 'tentative progress' has been made, but the rates of violence are continuing to cause concern.

In the report, released by the HM Inspectorate of Prisons, inspectors noted that some progress had been made following their 2023 visit which led to an Urgent Notification protocol invoked.

There's still 'much more' to do at HMP Bedford, following several poor inspections, but improvements had been noted, including a greater presence of senior leaders, enabling standards to be driven up higher.

Safety teams are also proactively working to understand and tackle the root causes of violence, which remain among the highest of all adult male prisons.

Charlie Taylor, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons said: "It was clear that the new governor and deputy governor were taking the concerns raised at the last inspection seriously, but they acknowledged there was still much to do. Progress was fragile and they will require extensive ongoing support from HMPPS to make the sustainable improvements the prison needs."

Inspectors noted illicit drugs, limited time out of cell, frustrations about not being able to get things done, and a lack of challenge from staff about poor behaviour were all contributing to a continued lack of safety.

The Victorian prison had some overcrowded accommodation found in the previous report, which had seen improvements, but cockroaches are said to have remained a problem.

Positively, inspectors found self-harm had reduced, and those with poor mental health were receiving improved support.

In response to the report, a Prison Service spokesperson said:

“The report rightly notes improvements at Bedford, including a reduction in levels of self-harm and the renovation of accommodation.

“The high rate of violence and poor living conditions is why this Government took immediate action to end the overcrowding crisis engulfing our jails - to ensure prisons create better citizens and not better criminals.”

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