The prison system is facing unprecedented challenges, with complaints to the ombudsman reaching 4,575 in the year ending March 2024, the highest in over a decade. Complaints regarding staff behaviour surged by 30% compared to the previous nine years, highlighting significant issues within the system. HM chief inspector Charlie Taylor said: “The training for British prison officers isn’t enough for the complexity of the job,” stressing the need for an overhaul. The lack of experienced officers, with 41% having less than three years of service, exacerbates the situation, leading to increased misconduct and violence. The Ministry of Justice acknowledged the crisis, stating: “We took immediate action to address the crisis,” and outlined a 10-year strategy to improve prison conditions.
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