HMI Prisons

HMI Prisons identify examples of notable practice during their inspections, and publish occasional thematic reviews on their findings. For more information visit the HMI Prisons website.

A thematic review of outcomes for girls in custody

[HMI Prisons (2022)]

Report on a thematic review of outcomes for girls in custody by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons.

The experience of immigration detainees in prisons

[HMI Prisons (2022)]

Short thematic review of the experience of immigration detainees in prisons by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons.

Keywords: immigration

The experiences of adult black male prisoners and black prison staff

[HMI Prisons (2022)]

This thematic review explores the experiences of prisoners who identify as black men and what can be done to create opportunities for respectful communication and mutual understanding between black prisoners and staff.

Keywords: diversity

Prison education: a review of reading education in prisons

[HMI Prisons (2022)]

This research was conducted as part of Ofsted and HMI Prisons’ commitment to carry out a year-long review of prison education. Six prisons were visited and the findings are based on interviews with senior prison leaders, education leaders, teachers, librarians, prison officers and prisoners.

Keywords: education, reading

Minority ethnic prisoners’ experiences of rehabilitation and release planning

[HMI Prisons (2020)]

This review provides insights into black and minority ethnic (BME) and Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) prisoners’ experiences of rehabilitation and release planning.

Keywords: diversity

Incentivising and promoting good behaviour: a review

[HMI Prisons (2018)]

Thematic review published by HMI Prisons on incentivising and promoting good behaviour.

Keywords: incentives

Life in prison: Living conditions

[HMI Prisons (2017)]

This findings paper is part of a series which focuses on daily life in prisons and young offender institutions (YOIs). It summarises literature surrounding living conditions in prison.

Keywords: environment

Life in Prison: Peer Support

[HMI Prisons (2016)]

Part of a series focusing on daily life in prisons and young offender institutions (YOIs), summarising the research literature surrounding peer support in prisons. Includes several examples of good practice.

Keywords: peer support

Life in Prison: Contact with Families and Friends

[HMI Prisons (2016)]

This findings paper is part of a series which focuses on daily life in prisons and YOIs. It summarises literature concerning the importance of prisoners maintaining relationships with the outside world, and friends and family in particular.

Keywords: families