Prison Overcrowding: A Growing Crisis
Prison overcrowding has become a pressing issue in the UK, especially in the North of England, resulting in the Government activating emergency measures.
In July 2024, according to a research briefing for the House of Commons, 60% of English and Welsh prisons are overcrowded, meaning they are holding more prisoners than they can accommodate to a decent standard. These numbers continue to grow as in August more than 1,000 people were arrested in connection with violent disorder following riots throughout England and Northern Ireland.
The Government’s Response Prison Overcrowding
Operation Early Dawn, implemented on the 19th of August to tackle the overpopulation in prisons, permits defendants to be detained in prison cells and not summoned to magistrates’ court until a prison space becomes available. These measures are being implemented across the North East and Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire, and the Manchester, Merseyside, and Cheshire regions. Lord Timpson, Prisons and probation minister, stated
“We inherited a justice system in crisis and exposed to shocks. As a result, we have been forced into making difficult but necessary decisions to keep it operating.”
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood revealed plans to reduce the portion of sentences that inmates must serve from 50% to 40%, which excludes those convicted of sex offences, terrorism, domestic abuse or some violent offences. This temporary measure is anticipated to lead to the release of 5,500 offenders in September and October.
The Consequences of Prison Overcrowding
Overcrowding in prisons has been an ever-growing concern for years but it has now reached its breaking point. Although the Government aim to tackle the pressing issue, a short-term measure will not be sustainable in the long term. The overpopulation has a huge knock-on effect on the entire justice system, for instance, potential adjournments and ongoing delays.
Overcrowded facilities often lead to inhumane living conditions, with prisoners being confined to small, poorly maintained cells for long periods. This environment fosters frustration, boredom, and restlessness, which can escalate into violence and increase incidents of self-harm. Additionally, the strain on resources makes it difficult to provide adequate rehabilitative services, such as education, employment, and mental health support.
Due to the overcrowding, prisoners are being moved further afield. Ellie Tweddle, Watson Woodhouse Prison Law Specialist, told ITV Tyne Tees News,
“We’re finding that many individuals are being transported to prisons around the country, mainly in the midlands or down south, which is affecting their access to legal advice and ability to access family visits. It is many of these individuals’ first time in custody, therefore being isolated in a place away from home without access to family and legal team is detrimental to their mental health.”
Prison Law Specialists
If you or your family member have been affected by the recent changes, call our specialist Prison Law team today on 01642 247656 or use our contact form and we will call you back.
