PRT comment: HMP Pentonville receives Urgent Notification

Commenting on HM Chief Inspector of Prisons’ decision to issue an Urgent Notification to the Secretary of State for Justice regarding conditions at HMP Pentonville, Pia Sinha, chief executive of the Prison Reform Trust, said:

“We are running out of adjectives to describe the shocking and inhumane conditions in our prisons—HMP Pentonville stands as a grim testament to a system in crisis.​ A troubling lack of oversight and accountability has led to unacceptable living conditions, with overcrowded, dirty cells, insufficient bedding, and widespread infestations of mice and cockroaches. ​ Prisoners are spending over 22 hours a day locked in these conditions, with limited access to showers, meaningful activities, or even adequate food. ​

“It is particularly concerning that this lack of hope appears to have spread to staff, further exacerbating the neglect and poor treatment of prisoners.​ This culture must urgently be addressed if Pentonville is to be turned around.

“Prisoners illegally held after they should have been released, or others released early in error, further undermine effective sentence planning and erode public confidence. Inspectors found that nearly half of releases are unplanned, and a staggering 23% of planned releases result in homelessness, leaving prisoners vulnerable and unsupported as they return to the community. ​

“This urgent notification must be a rallying cry for immediate action—fix the failing infrastructure, improve staff training, and treat prisoners with dignity. ​ But true reform demands reducing the pressure on our prisons through sentencing changes. Victims, prisoners, staff, and communities deserve better.”