Levels of violence at HMP Altcourse in Liverpool are rising sharply due to gang issues and the availability of drugs, according to a report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons. The unannounced inspection in June found that psychoactive substances such as Spice and Black Mamba were a significant factor in the increase in assaults, bullying, and fights.
Despite prisoners reporting they felt safe and the prison seemed calm, the report highlighted that assaults against prisoners and staff, along with bullying incidents and fights, were high and rising sharply. It also noted that little had been done to address the disproportionate number of young adults involved in violent incidents, with insufficient support for victims and a failure to take prompt action against perpetrators.
The prison, which is privately run by G4S and opened in 1997, was found to be overcrowded, with many cells designed for one or two prisoners holding an additional inmate. Chief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick said reducing violence was an urgent priority, but stressed the need to maintain the prison's strengths in positive relationships and purposeful activity.
G4S managing director Jerry Petherick acknowledged the challenging population and said reducing violence was the top priority, with action being taken in line with the report's recommendations. Michael Spurr, chief executive of the National Offender Management Service, said progress would be closely monitored to ensure necessary improvements are achieved.
