Prisons and probation require a complete reset

The Howard League for Penal Reform has responded to the Annual Report of HM Chief Inspector of Prisons for England and Wales 2023-24, published today (10 September 2024).

Andrea Coomber KC (Hon.), Chief Executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, said: “Woeful education and training, squalor, self-harm, drugs, violence and unmet mental health needs, all in the midst of severe overcrowding. The brutalising conditions spelled out in this report show why criminal justice reform must be a priority for the new government.

“While the capacity crisis has attracted significant media attention, the inspectors’ findings reveal what is actually going on behind bars. And although the early release scheme starting today will ease some pressure and buy a little time, more action will be needed to achieve a lasting solution.

“The situation in prisons and probation requires a complete reset.”

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 report can be found on the HM Inspectorate of Prisons website at: https://hmiprisons.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/

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Noor Khan
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