HMP Wandsworth conditions 'inhumane' despite falling violence

HMP Wandsworth remains 'grim and dysfunctional' with prisoners living in 'inhumane conditions', according to a recent report. Persistent issues with heating and hot water led to a 'loss of service' in November 2025, necessitating the ordering of 1,500 coats, 1,000 blankets, and 2,000 instant noodles for inmates. These problems are expected to continue until the prison's plumbing and heating systems are fully replaced, as stated in the Independent Monitoring Board's (IMB) October report.

Staffing Shortages Impact Operations

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The IMB's report for 2025/26 also identified critical staffing shortages, with an average of one-third of staff absent or unavailable each day. This understaffing has led to 'dangerously inadequate' staffing levels, affecting the number of prisoners able to participate in activities and education. The Wandsworth Prison Improvement Campaign (WPIC) noted that these issues persist against a backdrop of overcrowding, ageing infrastructure, and poor management of repairs.

Violence Levels Decline

Despite the ongoing challenges, the report indicated a fall in violence levels. Self-harm incidents decreased from 726 in 2024/25 to 530 in the following year. Prisoner-on-staff assaults also saw a reduction, dropping from 354 to 222. The use of force by staff also decreased from 1,705 incidents to 1,286.

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Matthew Andrews, IMB chair, acknowledged the commitment of the senior management team and dedicated staff, stating that the prison had a 'relatively good year' despite chronic staff shortages. He highlighted significant management challenges due to the high number of foreign nationals and prisoners with mental health issues in the remand prison.

Campaigners Call for Further Action

WPIC stated that while they welcome improvements noted by inspectors, the prison remains 'grim and dysfunctional'. They pointed to 'shocking failures' such as a six-month delay in replacing a dishwasher and a wing being closed for refurbishment for 20 months with little progress. WPIC also highlighted the difficulties faced by families trying to get information about inmates and the poor conditions in visiting areas.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said the government inherited prisons 'on the brink of collapse' and is working to restore order. They acknowledged that more work is needed at HMP Wandsworth, citing an independent review led by former Home Secretary Amber Rudd to improve prison safety, public security, and reduce reoffending.

The IMB report also noted that men at the prison were frequently locked in their cells for up to 22 hours a day, with nearly 40 per cent allocated to no activity.