Most people never get so see inside a prison. This is what you need to know about HMP Wandsworth.
Facts About HMP Wandsworth
It's overcrowded
At end 2023 Wandsworth had room for 964 men in decent accommodation but actual population was 1580.
What's staffing like?
During 2022/23 percentage of officers unavailable was rarely less than 50%. Staff struggle to provide even the most basic regime.
Is it safe for the men and people who work there?
Assaults rose by 25% during 2022/23. On average over 10 assaults on staff each week. 5 suicides during 2023.
Why do we say it's inhumane?
More than half had no work to do and spent 22 hours a day locked inside their cells. Prisoners’ hospital appointments frequently missed.
Squalid and unbearable conditions
Rubbish left in exercise yards attracts vermin; prisoners can only wash their clothes every two weeks and kit often runs short; in two wings only 11 shower stalls for 265 men; regular flooding of cells disrupts whole wings.