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HMP Leeds – the highest number of self-inflicted deaths across the prison estate in 2025

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HMP Leeds

In its 2025 annual report published on 8 July 2026, the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) for HMP Leeds has again called into question the adequacy of support systems in prison, as self-inflicted deaths remain at persistently high levels for the second year running.

The IMB notes that:

  • Five prisoners took their own lives during the reporting year, despite HMP Leeds receiving additional support from the prison service because of the high historic level of self-inflicted deaths.
  • Many prisoners with severe mental health conditions remain in custody despite being assessed as requiring treatment in a secure mental health hospital.
  • While prison may be perceived by the NHS as a “safe” environment, the Board does not consider it an appropriate setting for these men’s care.
  • The daily regime had to be curtailed 53 times over the course of the year because of staff shortages. This resulted in prisoners having less time out of their cells to associate, access work or education, which caused frustration and in increase in poor behaviour.
  • 32% of prisoners had no suitable accommodation to go to upon release. This is a particular concern to the Board as the provision of housing is seen as a primary preventive factor in avoiding recall to prison.

However, the IMB is also pleased to report that:

  • Towards the end of 2025, and under the leadership of a new Governor, various initiatives were introduced that give the IMB cause for optimism that, with sufficient support from the prison service, the level of self-inflicted deaths can be reduced in 2026.
  • There has been a further reduction in the number of IPP (imprisonment for public protection) prisoners in HMP Leeds.
  • There was a reduction in prisoners found under the influence, from 538 in the previous reporting year to 346 in 2025.

Leeds IMB Chair, John Cleland, said:

“HMP Leeds recorded the highest number of self-inflicted deaths across the prison estate during the reporting year. This deeply concerning position needs urgent action. We expect the new Governor and her team to be fully supported by the prison service with the resources needed to address this pattern. We also hope that the various initiatives that management put in place towards the end of 2025 will begin to make a meaningful difference in 2026.”