Prisoners at a sprawling jail in Lancashire are enjoying takeaways and other illicit goods thrown over the perimeter fence, a damning report has revealed.
Vast Site Hinders Security Efforts
Inspectors said the enormous 200-acre footprint of HMP Kirkham, near Preston, makes it extremely difficult to prevent contraband from being launched over the boundary. The report detailed that "drops and throw overs including meat and takeaways" were common finds within the prison grounds.
The problem is compounded by a lack of basic facilities for inmates. The absence of freezers in the living quarters means prisoners can only buy small amounts of meat like bacon and sausages from the prison shop. This has led to thefts of food from the jail's kitchens as inmates seek to supplement their meals.
Drug Crisis and Search Shortfalls
The jail's Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) highlighted a severe drug problem, with over 1,000 drug finds in a single year. Despite this, monthly random mandatory drug testing of 5% of the population still returned a positive rate of 40% among those tested.
The IMB stated that preventing the import and use of drugs remains the prison's "most difficult challenge." While no drone incidents were reported, the traditional method of throwing items over the fence persists. Furthermore, the board raised concerns about the low number of prisoners searched when returning from temporary release or outside work, citing staff resource constraints.
Contrasting Picture of Prison Life
Alongside the security failures, the report also noted positive developments in prisoner activities. A new gym managed at a custodial manager level has been opened, leading to an enlarged programme of activities including free running, football, and touch rugby.
A wide range of other pursuits, from snooker and darts to crafts, model car racing, painting, and cooking, are now regularly available for inmates. This creates a stark contrast between the efforts to rehabilitate prisoners and the ongoing struggle to maintain basic security and order at the vast facility.
