Rebuilding trust: key working, progression and policy in prisons in England and Wales

This report has been produced by the HMP Coldingley Building Futures Working Group.

The report examines experiences of key working under the Offender Management in Custody (OMiC) framework. Drawing on consultations with prisoners and staff across several prisons in England, it explores how key working is delivered in practice and the role that trust, consistency and supportive relationships play in supporting progression, rehabilitation and wellbeing.

The findings highlight the gap between policy intentions and everyday experience, as well as the operational pressures that can undermine meaningful engagement. The report considers the implications of these finds for prison policy and practice across England and Wales.