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Underlying systemic challenges undermining progress at HMP Bristol, say independent monitors

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HMP Bristol

In July 2023 the Chief Inspector of Prisons declared HMP Bristol ‘one of the most unsafe prisons in the country’. The 2024-2025 annual report from the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at HMP Bristol (published 11 December 2025), draws attention to the areas of sustained improvement observed in the prison, while highlighting the ongoing concerns that the Board still has.

Key improvements that have been made in the last year include:

  • A significant decrease in the number of self-harm incidents, from 906 in the previous reporting year to 455.
  • A fall in violent incidents from 340 to 232, which the Board, in part, believes may be attributed to the focus the prison leadership team has placed on increasing purposeful activities for prisoners.
  • A new healthier menu, with over 70% of food being freshly prepared in the prison, one of the highest percentages in the country.

However, significant issues remain:

  • Overcrowding and poor conditions – three large wings built in Victorian times are unfit for purpose, 99 prisoners still have no toilets in their cell and there is no digital technology for prisoners.
  • More prisoners are being held on remand for longer periods of time (52% of the population in July 2025), making it difficult for prisoners to engage in work and education.  
  • One in five prisoners were released homeless between April and June 2025, and an average of 70% of prisoners were unable to meet with the resettlement team prior to their release. Access to accommodation and resettlement services are key to prisoners re-joining the community and reducing re-offending rates.

Bristol IMB Chair, Eric Gatling said:

“HMP Bristol has had a turbulent history in recent years. The improvements for prisoners made by the Governor and staff at HMP Bristol have been welcomed by the IMB. However, issues still exist, especially given the continuing high demand for prison places, poor conditions for prisoners, and the limited support for prisoners on release. There appears to be no immediate solution to these issues, and in the meantime it is negatively affecting both prisoners and staff at HMP Bristol.”