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Prison monitors express concern about healthcare provision at HMP Lancaster Farms

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HMP Lancaster Farms

The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) for HMP Lancaster Farms has today (9 July 2025) published its 2024-25 annual report which highlights the increasing number of complaints the Board received about healthcare provision. Issues raised include problems men had accessing specialist mental health services, delays accessing dental and GP services, as well as hospital appointments when moving between prisons, and withdrawal from pain medication.

  • The number of health care complaints from prisoners to the IMB increased from 28 in 2023-24 to 81 in 2024-25.
  • There were serious concerns over the administration of medication. Some men went days without their necessary prescriptions being dispensed, which could only damage their physical and mental wellbeing, not to mention the potential threat this poses to the good order of the prison.
  • At times the wait to access counselling was five months, and seven months for a dentist appointment, meaning some prisoners were released before being able to access the appropriate care.

However, the Board is pleased to report that:

  • The appointment of a Neurodiversity Support Manager has made a tangible difference in the visibility of men with neurodiverse needs. In addition, a new unit has been introduced that supports 18 neurodivergent men in a smaller and less intimidating environment.
  • The CrossFit project continued to provide prisoners with a positive focus based on fitness. The Board is impressed by the programme and continues to monitor the positive impact it has on participants.

IMB Lancaster Farms Vice Chair, Robin Talbot, said:

“Particular delays arise when men move between prisons. Staff do their best to try and ensure continuity of care, but we have noted instances where information or medication has not transferred from other prisons, and where men have been disadvantaged by needing to join new waiting lists at Lancaster Farms. In addition, the national shortage of specialist mental health care services means that men cannot move as quickly as they should from Lancaster Farms to more appropriate settings.”