In HMP Manchester, formerly known as Strangeways, inmates are enduring appalling conditions as revealed by a recent inspection. The prison has been deemed “fundamentally unsafe,” plagued by catastrophic levels of drug abuse, rampant violence, freezing cells, and a severe rat infestation. The HM Inspectorate of Prisons report cited HMP Manchester as the most violent adult male prison in England and Wales, with the highest rate of serious assaults. Inspectors found alarming levels of weapons and contraband, with 39% of inmates testing positive for drugs in the past year. Additionally, over half of the prisoners reported feeling unsafe, and there have been several self-inflicted deaths and fatalities suspected to be linked to drug use since the previous inspection.
HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor highlighted the urgent need for action, emphasising the inadequate physical security measures in a prison housing many men with organised crime ties. The prison’s decline was described as shocking, with drugs posing a critical threat to security. The inspection report labelled HMP Manchester as “filthy” due to a rodent problem, with inmates resorting to stuffing foam from mattresses into window frames to keep out the cold. Notably, the facility witnessed the UK’s longest prison riot in 1990.
Andrew Neilson from the Howard League for Penal Reform emphasised the need for tackling drug issues in prisons by reducing demand through activities and staff support. He urged the Government to focus on restoring order and decency in existing prisons rather than constructing new ones. The challenges faced by HMP Manchester reflect broader issues within the prison system that require immediate attention.
The situation at HMP Manchester underscores the pressing need for reform and improved conditions for inmates. The prison’s state has been described as dire, with urgent action required to address the pervasive issues of violence, drug abuse, security lapses, and unsafe living conditions. As calls for reform grow louder, the spotlight remains on the Government to address the systemic challenges plaguing prisons across the UK.