Leeds prison report reveals the tragic consequences of chronic overcrowding

The Howard League for Penal Reform has responded to HM Inspectorate of Prisons’ report on Leeds prison, published today (Tuesday 21 October).

Inspectors visited the prison, in West Yorkshire, in July 2025 and found the highest rate of self-inflicted deaths across all adult men’s prisons in the last three years, with two further suicides reported after the inspection.

Inspectors noted that a combination of mental health need and inadequate support for those at risk of self-harm was placing vulnerable people at risk and posed a serious threat to safety at the prison.

Ministry of Justice figures show that, at the end of September, Leeds was the second-most overcrowded prison in England. It had room for 641 men but was being asked to hold 1,092. When inspectors visited in July, they found inadequate conditions, with 78% of the men sharing overcrowded cells designed for one person. Forty per cent were spending up to 20 hours a day locked up.

Andrea Coomber KC (Hon.), Chief Executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said: “This appalling report highlights how chronic overcrowding in our prison system puts lives at risk.

“If there had been 16 self-inflicted deaths in three years in any other state facility, there would be a national outcry and calls for a public inquiry. What is being done to keep people safe?

“The urgent need for bold action to reduce the prison population is inescapable. This prison is holding 500 more men than, by its own measure, it can hold in safety and decency. And many are locked in their cells for 22 hours a day. Such overcrowding is inhumane for the prisoners and puts unacceptable pressure on prison leaders and staff.

“Ministers must move decisively to save lives, protect staff and prevent more people being swept into deeper currents of self-harm, violence and despair.”

Notes to editors

1. The Howard League for Penal Reform is the oldest penal reform charity in the world. It is a national charity working for less crime, safer communities and fewer people in prison.
2. The inspection report for Leeds prison will be available on the HM Inspectorate of Prisons website.
3. For more information about the prison overcrowding crisis, read the explainer article ‘Why are prisons overcrowded?’.

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