PRT comment: IMB 2024 national annual report

Commenting on the findings of today’s Independent Monitoring Board National Annual Report, Alex Hewson, Senior Policy and Communications Officer at the Prison Reform Trust said:

“Today’s report lays bare the scale of the crisis in our prisons, which is undermining rehabilitation and fuelling reoffending. Chronic overcrowding has led to unsafe, squalid conditions, rising drug use and violence, and shocking rates of self-harm, whilst people with severe mental health needs are held in wholly unsuitable environments.

“While the government’s emergency measures were necessary, they can be no substitute for lasting reform. Now that the independent sentencing review has reported, we need decisive action to reduce overcrowding and expand the use of effective community sentences alongside proper investment in rehabilitation and resettlement. Only a long-term strategy focused on prevention and support will reduce crime and build safer communities for everyone.”