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 briefing on the Sentencing Bill
PRT publishes briefing to assist MPs ahead of second reading debate on 16 September
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PRT comment: David Lammy appointed as Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice
David Lammy's appointment comes at a critical moment for reform
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PRT comment: Publication of the Sentencing Bill
The bill offers a path to lasting reform, if supported with the necessary resources.
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New report highlights significant barriers to reintegration faced by long-term prisoners on release
Enhanced support and policy reform is needed to assist long sentenced prisoners on release
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Relationships Matter
PRT Associate Sarah Beresford explains a recent adaption to the Child Impact Assessment resources
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PRT comment: Independent review of prison capacity
We cannot afford to indulge in the fantasy that building more prisons will solve this crisis
Our latest publications
View all- August 2025 Release from long-term imprisonment This report, written by Dr Ailie Rennie, in partnership with PRT’s Building Futures programme,... Release from long-term imprisonment
- June 2025 Update and Restart Most prisons now offer virtual methods for staying in touch with loved ones, along with expanded pro... Update and Restart
- April 2025 Resetting the approach to women’s imprisonment This briefing sets out the latest facts about women in contact with the criminal justice system in E... Resetting the approach to women’s imprisonment
- April 2025 Citizens’ Panel on sentencing At the end of 2024, the Prison Reform Trust commissioned a Citizens’ Panel on sentencing in Englan... Citizens’ Panel on sentencing
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.
