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HMP Gartree: a crumbling prison and a failing healthcare provider

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HMP Gartree

In its 2023-34 annual report published today (28 May 2025), the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at HMP Gartree reports that since a new healthcare provider took over the contract in March 2024, there has been a 75% increase in the number of healthcare related complaints. Furthermore, the ongoing deterioration of the fabric of the building and the infrastructure means the Prison Service is failing to provide a decent environment for prisoners.

The IMB notes that:

  • A range of improvised weapons continue to be discovered in cells, communal areas and areas outside the wing blocks and there has been an increase in drugs and illicit items found within the prison.
  • Healthcare provision is inadequate. Since Practice Plus Group (PPG) became responsible for the contract, there has been a significant increase in the number of healthcare related complaints. The department is understaffed and relies on a third party to provide agency staff.
  • The ageing fabric of the building and creaking infrastructure caused disruption, with leaking roofs, broken showers and a failing heating system. Legionellosis was suspected in some showers, which resulted in the closure of an entire shower block.
  • For the fourth year running,despite the fact that the Board was told that significant funds had been allocated in previous years to address this issue, essential equipment in the kitchen has not been replaced or repaired. This has led to an unhygienic environment in the kitchens.

However, it is also pleased to report that:

  • Funding has been secured for an incentivised drug-free unit, which will offer support to prisoners actively wishing to recover and desist from using drugs.
  • The Board recognises the hard work and professionalism of staff.

IMB Gartree Chair, Steve Martin, said:

“The Board is concerned that drug use is widespread, and drone activity continues to be reported, particularly at night. However, the volume of illicit items delivered via this method and then trafficked around the establishment remains unclear.

Additionally, despite claims by the Prison Service 12 months ago that the majority of the heating issues had been resolved, we remain dismayed at the lack of progress on necessary repairs to the fabric and infrastructure at HMP Gartree, which impacts on prisoners and staff alike. We raise the issue of a crumbling prison and inadequate healthcare every year, but nothing gets done.”