A new report from the Independent Monitoring Boards (IMBs) has revealed alarming conditions in prisons across England and Wales, including a death from a fire and a near-amputation from a spider bite.
Fire Fatality at HMP Garth
An inmate at HMP Garth in Lancashire died in a fire after a fire alarm apparently failed to function. The IMB report cites this as an example of a lack of working fire alarms in parts of some prisons.
Spider Bite Incident at Bullingdon
At Bullingdon prison in Oxfordshire, three spider bites were reported between September and November 2025. Two prisoners required hospital treatment, and one was warned he could lose his leg.
Pest Infestations and Violence
The report also highlights a severe rat infestation at Feltham prison in west London and widespread weapon possession among young inmates. At Feltham, 50 weapons were found in August alone, despite holding only about 100 boys.
Systemic Failures
IMB national chair Jane Leech described a crumbling estate and relentless population pressures, stating that procedures meant to safeguard vulnerable people frequently failed them. Andrea Coomber of the Howard League for Penal Reform criticized the government for being too slow to respond to warning signs.
Government Response
Prisons Minister Lord Timpson acknowledged the need for improvement, citing investments in new prison places, maintenance, and security. He highlighted sentencing reforms and a £4bn plan for 14,000 new prison places by 2031.
