Prison inspectors call increased funding for The Verne
It's the main finding of an annual report there
Last updated 6th Feb 2024
Portland's HMP The Verne needs more funding, according to inspectors as they release their annual report into the site.
The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) has published their 2022/23 findings.
They've found more prisoners are being released from The Verne, than was originally planned when the jail reopened in 2018.
But there are concerns that the funding given to the site isn't enough to 'prepare men for release', with further worries about the 'level of resettlement provision'.
The IMB thinks that will 'directly impact the chances of prisoners' successful reintegration back into the community'.
Chair of IMB The Verne, Michael Ellis, said:
“The senior management of HMP The Verne have done a remarkable job juggling the budget to create a specialist resettlement post. However, while we recognise the dedication of staff, this model is not sustainable given that almost a quarter of the men in The Verne are being released straight into the community; it therefore has a considerable resettlement role and should be funded as such.”
The report has also highlighted some positives at the prison.
Inspectors thought the site offered 'a safe environment for prisoners', they've welcomed the opening of a social care unit to support elderly and frail inmates and noted that three prisoners had completed honours class degrees through the Open University.
A Prison Service Spokespersons said:
“We are pleased this report recognises the efforts of staff to maintain a stable, safe regime, with instances of violence remaining rare and mutual respect between staff and prisoners.”
“The prison has recently opened a 24 hour unit to meet the needs of prisoners requiring additional care and are considering further options to ensure they can provide a resettlement service.”