Despite real improvements, HMP Rochester continues to face significant challenges that threaten safety and rehabilitation

In its 2025-26 annual report published today (8 September 2026), the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) for HMP/YOI Rochester notes that the arrival and management of an older cohort of prisoners, those convicted of sexual offences, initially placed considerable strain on the prison. This increased pressure on staff, facilities and healthcare services, although as the year progressed, the Board observed the prison adapting well. While levels of violence were low amongst this group, the Board highlights the challenges related to continuing violence amongst the rest of the population, often driven by the illicit economy and drug‑related debt.  

The Board raises the following concerns:

• The availability of illicit drugs within the prison continues to pose a major threat to safety and security.
• Despite the arrival of an older cohort with greater social-care needs, the prison was without a social care provider for the entirety of the reporting year.
• A reduction in education provision has further strained already limited resources undermining the role of HMP/YOI Rochester as a training and resettlement prison.
• 12% of men were released without accommodation, leaving them vulnerable to homelessness and associated challenges, including an increased risk of re-offending.
• A ten‑month delay in introducing the Building Choices programme, a key intervention for prisoners convicted of sexual offences and often a requirement of their sentence plan.

The Board, however, is pleased to note that:

• The appointment of a permanent Governor has strengthened senior leadership at the prison.
• There is clear and measurable progress in the delivery and oversight of the prison’s drug strategy, although there is still a long way to go.
• Positive relationships between staff and prisoners are often observed.

The Chair of IMB Rochester said:

“Although the Board was concerned at first about the prison’s ability to manage significant changes, including the arrival of a new cohort of prisoners with greater needs, our weekly monitoring visits indicate it has adapted well.   

However, the easy availability of drugs and the number of men using them remains a serious concern and a clear threat to safety and security across the prison. At the same time, cuts to education provision have exacerbated the chronic shortage of trainers and tutors, reducing opportunities for men to gain skills, prepare for release and engage in meaningful activity. As a result, more prisoners are spending longer locked in their cells with fewer prospects for rehabilitation.”