Strangeways Prison in 'Precarious State' as Inmates Watch TV and Take Drugs
A shocking inspection report has exposed a deepening crisis at HMP Manchester, commonly known as Strangeways, where inmates are spending their days watching daytime television and consuming drugs smuggled in through broken windows. HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor found that the prison remains in a "precarious state" despite previous warnings, with drones delivering "large quantities" of contraband and gangs operating with "impunity."
Security Failures Allow Drug Flood into High-Security Jail
Inspectors discovered that broken or insecure windows have gone unfixed for two years due to what Taylor described as "absurdly bureaucratic planning processes." This has enabled organised crime gangs to exploit the vulnerabilities, with drones hovering outside to drop packages of drugs that prisoners snatch through gaps in the windows. Even newly installed secure windows have been breached, with inmates reportedly melting panes using kettle filaments within "a couple of days."
The prison houses category A and B prisoners, and random drug tests revealed that around 38 per cent tested positive. Taylor emphasised that poor physical security, including a failing CCTV system and damaged netting over exercise yards, exacerbates the issue. He noted that funding for window replacements was approved in 2021, but "hardly any" have been installed, and the Prison Service has taken "far too long" to act.
Lack of Activities and Rehabilitation Opportunities
With a severe shortage of positive training and educational opportunities, many inmates are locked in their cells for up to 22 hours a day. Taylor observed, "What we saw at Manchester was far too many prisoners sitting in their cells watching daytime TV and in many cases taking drugs." This environment undermines rehabilitation efforts, as highlighted by Enver Solomon, chief executive of social justice charity Nacro, who called the report "a damning indictment of a prison system in crisis."
Solomon questioned how rehabilitation can occur when drug use and violence are rampant, and chronic staff shortages limit meaningful activities. He stressed that addressing root causes of offending through work, education, and support services is essential for reducing reoffending and keeping communities safe.
National Security Threat from Drone Deliveries
Taylor previously warned that the failure to tackle drone deliveries has effectively ceded prison airspace to organised crime, posing a "threat to national security." He expressed alarm that weapons can be delivered this way, especially in wings holding terrorists and high-risk category A prisoners. The safety of staff, prisoners, and the public is seriously compromised by these security lapses.
Despite some improvements under the current governor, who has restored "an element of stability," Taylor noted "a fragility about the place that makes us nervous." The number of weapons and illicit items found at HMP Manchester is among the highest for adult male prisons, further highlighting the urgent need for action.
Government Response and Ongoing Challenges
An MoJ spokesman acknowledged the prison is operating under "immense pressure" after inheriting a system at "the peak of its crisis." The government claims to have taken immediate action to prevent collapse and is implementing measures to stop drones, upgrade security, and tackle the drug flow fueling violence. However, the report underscores persistent failures that continue to endanger rehabilitation and public safety.
