HMP Moorland, a Category C prison near Doncaster holding over 1,000 inmates, has sparked controversy after hosting an LGBT-themed sports day that included a drag performer. Around half of the prison's inmates are serving sentences for sexual offences, and both LGBT prisoners and sex offenders were invited to attend the event.
Event Details and Staff Concerns
Coloured decorations reflecting the LGBT flag were displayed outside the segregation unit during the event, which the prison organised to recognise diversity among prisoners. However, a witness claimed the drag performer spent much of the time standing on the sidelines. According to The Daily Telegraph, prison sources alleged that many staff members were not informed the sports day was taking place, suggesting the event was kept low-profile.
Criticism from Former Prison Governor
Former prison governor Ian Acheson questioned the decision, stating: "I simply can't imagine what possessed prison bosses to put on such an event. This prison holds people convicted of very serious sexual crimes against men, women and children." He also claimed senior officials attempted to keep the event from staff and criticised the invitation of a drag performer. "The question is what did people at HQ level know about this and did they sanction it? This is a national law enforcement agency that has completely lost its way," he added.
Political Backlash
Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy condemned the event, saying victims would be "outraged" that prisons were hosting special sports days involving sex offenders. He stated: "Whoever thought it was appropriate to book a drag artist to entertain them should be sacked. We will end this waste and ensure our prisons are focused on punishment, deterrence and rehabilitation."
Broader Context of Prison Overcrowding
The revelations have fuelled criticism from campaigners and politicians, who argued the event risks damaging public confidence in the prison system at a time when overcrowding has led to the early release of thousands of offenders. HMP Moorland has one of the highest proportions of sex offenders in the prison estate.
