Damning Prison Report

During their unannounced inspection at the prison in May, inspectors noted a dining area, healthcare waiting room and even a cleaning cupboard were being used to house some prisoners.

Claims that results of a survey into bullying in the prison had been stolen from staff offices were refuted by Ford governor Ken Kam.

"We have challenged that.

"We found many inaccuracies at the time of the inspection and the findings contradict an audit which was carried out between July 29 and August 9 this year.

"We have to work out an action plan, taking into account all the recommendations. We have to decide, in conjunction with the prisons' area manager, which recommendations to accept and which ones to reject."

Mr Kam said that, despite the negative comments, he felt the report was fairly positive overall.

And although the report contained damning claims, the inspectors also found plenty of examples of good practice.

The Race Relations liaison team was said to be outstanding, the prison was also congratulated for setting up a Well Men clinic and inspectors

particularly commended the practice of holding an annual meeting and briefing for outside employers of inmates.

The report said the prison's good work establishing links with outside employers was being undermined by an influx of unsuitable prisoners, mainly those serving recently-sentenced offenders and and those on short-term stays.

Find out what the prisoners think and see more pictures in the Gazette, October 31.