Prison watchdog calls for more funding for HMP The Verne

In its 2022-23 annual report the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) for HMP The Verne highlights that far more prisoners are being released into the community from the prison than was originally envisaged when it was reopened in 2018. The necessary funding, however, has not been made available to prepare these men for release, and the Board consequently has concerns over the level of resettlement provision offered. This directly impacts the chances of prisoners’ successful reintegration back into the community.

However, the IMB is pleased to note that:

• the prison continues to offer a safe environment for prisoners.
• the opening of a social care unit serving the needs of frail and elderly prisoners has been a welcome addition.
• three prisoners achieved honours degrees from the Open University.

Chair of IMB The Verne, Michael Ellis, said:

“The senior management of HMP The Verne have done a remarkable job juggling the budget to create a specialist resettlement post. However, while we recognise the dedication of staff, this model is not sustainable given that almost a quarter of the men in The Verne are being released straight into the community; it therefore has a considerable resettlement role and should be funded as such.”