Bolstered security measures, improved staff training and a
bespoke pest control plan will be implemented at HMP Manchester
in response to concerns raised by the Chief Inspector of
Prisons.
The prison received an Urgent Notification at the beginning of
October after inspectors found significant levels of drugs and
violence – including a high number of weapons and serious
assaults compared to all other prisons. The report also noted
“dilapidated” conditions such as several broken windows and poor
levels of cleanliness including a chronic rodent
infestation.
The Prison Service has now published a new action plan to
radically improve safety and conditions at the prison. This
includes installing a new CCTV system and netting across the site
to combat drones and clamp down on the contraband that fuels
violence behind bars.
Specialist staff will also be appointed to better spot and
support vulnerable prisoners at risk of self-harm and new
training will be delivered to frontline officers to improve the
management of violent offenders.
Meanwhile, a new pest control strategy is already being
implemented and a dedicated team has been created to identify and
address any urgent repairs needed at the jail.
, Minister for Prisons and
Probation, said:
“The chief inspectors report made for dire reading and
highlighted the stark realities of the prison crisis we
inherited.
“I have visited the prison myself and met with the governor. The
frontline staff are already working hard to reduce violence and
improve conditions. This action plan will ensure they have the
support they need.”
The report also highlighted the prison is not sufficiently
providing prisoners with the opportunity to gain the skills and
training they need to turn their backs on crime. In response, the
prison will complete a full review of the education on offer and
redesign its curriculum by January 2025 to enhance the work
opportunities available to prisoners on release.
There have now been five prisons across the country over the last
twelve months which have received Urgent Notifications from HM
Inspectorate of Prisons. The Government is tackling the crisis it
inherited and has already taken action to reduce overcrowding
that is contributing to violence, pressure on staff and a decline
in education and training.
