HM Inspectorate of Prisons reports that HMP & YOI Brinsford now has the highest levels of violence among adult prisons in England and Wales. Inspectors flagged a high use of force, heavy reliance on Pava spray, a 70% rise in self-harm since 2023 and 26% positive drug tests. The report also cites poor living conditions, minimal out-of-cell time and limited resettlement support, while noting some promising reforms led by the governor.
Report: Brinsford Prison Records Highest Violence Levels in England and Wales
Prison violence highest in England, report says
Inspectors from HM Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP) have found that HMP & YOI Brinsford, near Wolverhampton, now records the highest levels of violence of any adult prison in England and Wales.
Inspection Findings
HMIP's report highlights a number of serious concerns at the Staffordshire jail, including frequent use of force against prisoners and what inspectors described as a "concerning over-reliance on Pava incapacitant spray." The report notes that the rise in violence has coincided with a significant concentration of younger inmates.
- Population: Brinsford holds more than 500 remanded and sentenced men, most of whom are under 25; a large group of 18–20-year-olds is said to be largely responsible for the very high levels of violence.
- Use of Force: Inspectors reported a high amount of force used against prisoners and frequent deployment of Pava spray.
- Self-Harm: Incidents of self-harm rose by around 70% since the last inspection in 2023.
- Drug Supply: A concerning rise in drugs was recorded, with 26% of tests returning positive.
- Daily Regime and Living Conditions: Many prisoners spend very little time out of their cells—sometimes as little as an hour a day outside mealtimes. Inspectors described living conditions as poor, citing showers in urgent need of repair and limited opportunities for prisoners to clean their own cells.
- Education and Resettlement: Attendance at education, skills training and work is too low; resettlement support is limited, leaving many prisoners anxious and underprepared for release.
- Mental Health and Services: Long waits for hospital transfers for prisoners with serious mental illness were identified, along with restricted access to library and careers information.
HMIP said there had been a "high amount of force used against prisoners" and a "concerning over-reliance on Pava incapacitant spray."
Positive Developments
The report also identified areas of progress and promising practice. Inspectors praised a "well-regarded governor" who is actively supporting his leadership team and pursuing ambitious improvements. Notable initiatives include a care leavers flat that promotes independent living skills, a new well-equipped neurodiversity hub, and the effective use of "rehabilitative adjudications" to support prisoners who test positive for drugs.
The Ministry of Justice has been approached for comment.
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