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© Copyright, Independent Monitoring Boards 2025.

HMP Rochester struggles to provide rehabilitative support to changing population, says prison watchdog

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HMP/YOI Rochester

In its annual report, published 12 August 2025, the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at HMP Rochester notes that the prison has faced major challenges that have impacted on its ability to provide sufficient rehabilitative support and a decent environment for prisoners. These include unstable leadership, an urgent notification being issued by the Chief Inspector of Prisons, the merger of the prison with HMP Cookham Wood, and the need to accommodate a changing prison population.

The Board notes the following concerns:

  • The lack of a permanent Governor for most of the reporting year, which led to instability and negatively impacted staff and the welfare of prisoners.
  • The merger with HMP Cookham Wood, alongside the introduction of prisoners convicted of sexual offences, who were brought in by HMPPS without sufficient planning or preparation, in order to meet prison population requirements. 
  • The limited accommodation for category C men, which led to most men sharing cells, making it more challenging to deal with those from a serious crime background and limit levels of intimidation.
  • The behavioural change programmes required for those convicted of sexual offences are currently not available at the prison; consequently, these men may be released without having completed their sentence plans.
  • The failing infrastructure, levels of mould and continuing issues with vermin.

However, the Board is pleased to note that:

  • Segregation officers were observed continuing to perform a difficult task well and the Board commends them for their professionalism and patience.
  • There was a sustained decrease in the level of violence from October 2024 onwards.
  • Incidents of self-harm decreased during the year. The Board observed appropriate care being taken by prison officers with those identified as being at risk of suicide.

The Chair of IMB Rochester said:

“This reporting year has been exceptionally challenging for HMP Rochester. The change of prison population has had an impact across all working areas, with new working arrangements required. The Board is particularly concerned about the lack of programme provision for prisoners convicted of sexual offences.
However, the decreases in levels of violence and incidents of self-harm at HMP Rochester are welcomed by the Board. Progress is being made due to the commendable flexibility shown by all working at the prison but there is still some way to go before things settle down.”