We’re working to create a just, humane & effective prison system.
We’re doing this by influencing decision-makers, opinion formers and the public to:
- Reduce the use of prison.
- Improve conditions for prisoners.
- Promote equality and human rights in the criminal justice system.
What are you looking for?
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Information and advice
Information and advice about prison, either for me or someone I know.
Information and Advice -
Facts and statistics
Statistics, facts and information about prison, and the prison system.
Facts and Statistics -
Publications
View all of our latest publications and research.
Publications -
Donate and support
We can only build a just, humane and effective penal system with your support.
Donate -
Policy and legislation
View our policy and legislative work, and consultation responses.
Policy & legislation -
Projects and research
View all of our current projects to reduce imprisonment and improve conditions for prisoners and their families.
Projects and Research -
Get in touch
Use our helpline service, or contact our press team and office.
Contact -
Opportunities
View our current vacancies and voluntary opportunities.
Opportunities
Latest news & updates
View all news and updates
PRT comment: HMP Swaleside receives Urgent Notification
It is shocking that HMP Swaleside has been allowed to descend to such an appalling level
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New report reveals why hope and meaning are vital for people serving long sentences
Report calls for reforms to help long-term prisoners maintain hope and purpose during their sentence
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PRT committee stage briefing on the Sentencing Bill
PRT publishes briefing to assist members of the House of Lords debates starting on 26 November
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New reports reveal the hidden toll of long-term prison sentences on families
The reports highlight the emotional and financial strain on families of long-term prisoners
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Building Futures showcase: voices of leadership and hope from inside
Celebrating lived experience and reform of long-term imprisonment at the University of Manchester
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PRT comment: Ombudsman report into historic abuse at Medomsley detention centre
Historic abuse findings reinforce the need for vigilance and safeguarding in custody.
Our latest publications
View all- December 2025 A Measure of Hope? How purpose, meaning and fulfilment can ease the harms of long-term imprisonment This report by Kimmett Edgar, Claudia Vince and Rachel O’Brien draws on the voices of 123 peop... A Measure of Hope? How purpose, meaning and fulfilment can ease the harms of long-term imprisonment
- November 2025 Report and accounts 2024–25 The trustees are pleased to present their report together with the financial statements of the Priso... Report and accounts 2024–25
- November 2025 The Long Stretch 2: The emotional impact of long-term imprisonment on loved ones This report by Ruth Woolsey follows consultation with 27 people: 24 who have loved ones serving long... The Long Stretch 2: The emotional impact of long-term imprisonment on loved ones
- November 2025 ‘The Lang Whang’ (The Long Journey): the hidden impact of Scotland’s longest prison sentences This report, conducted in partnership with Families Outside and authored by Chloe Hampton, Professor... ‘The Lang Whang’ (The Long Journey): the hidden impact of Scotland’s longest prison sentences
Policy work
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All-Party Parliamentary Group on Penal Affairs
All-Party Parliamentary Group on Penal AffairsThe All-Party Parliamentary Group on Penal Affairs aims to increase its members’ knowledge and to work through parliamentary channels for reform of the criminal justice system. Full minutes of meetings are available in this section.
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Legislation
LegislationWe provide support to members of parliament with briefing papers to assist them during debates, and draft amendments to legislation. You can find our published parliamentary briefings in this section.
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Consultation Responses
Consultation ResponsesPrison Reform Trust responds to many consultations, including those from government, parliamentary select committees and the Sentencing Council. You can find our published responses in this section.
Featured projects
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Prison: the facts Prison: the facts
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Prisoner Policy Network Prisoner Policy Network
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Building Futures Building Futures
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Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP)
Support us in our work to create a just, humane and effective penal system
The Prison Reform Trust needs and values support from members of the public who share our aims of achieving a just, humane and effective prison system in the UK. We do not accept government funding and rely on voluntary donations.
There are a number of ways in which you can add your support, keep in touch and get involved.
You can become a Friend by making a regular donation towards our work, or you can give a one off donation.
