A review by HM Inspectorate of Prisons found few jails had a strategy for people held awaiting trial or sentence, who now make up around a fifth of the prison population.
Jake Richards toured three Fundación Diagrama facilities in Spain, where reoffending among young people is far lower than in youth custody in England and Wales.
Inspectors found the Northern Ireland prison calm, well led and safe, with very low violence, but raised concerns about misused medication, ageing buildings and gaps in offending behaviour work.
Inspectors found women at the County Durham prison enjoyed learning in calm classrooms, with a high proportion completing courses and gaining qualifications.
Government data for 2023 to 2025 reveal large gaps in supervision of higher-risk cases, as ministers plan less contact with low-risk prison leavers and more tagging.
The board’s first report urges alternatives to custody for pregnant women and mothers, as the Justice Secretary announces £32 million for women’s centres and charities.
Tom Wheatley of the Prison Governors Association says some long-term prisoners in high-security jails see attacking infamous offenders as a way to gain status.
The Chief Inspector of Prisons has warned of serious failings across the Long-Term High-Security Estate, with Woodhill and Swaleside now both in special measures.
A jury found that missed mental health needs, the lack of a cell fire alarm and delays in reaching her contributed to the death of Clare Dupree at HMP Eastwood Park.
A review by HM Inspectorate of Prisons found high phone costs, long booking waits and disproportionate security checks deterring family contact, which it says supports safety and reduces reoffending.
