Prisoners at HMP Kirkham are resorting to consuming takeaways that are being tossed over the facility’s fence due to the challenges posed by its vast 200-acre grounds, according to recent disclosures. The prison’s expansive footprint makes it hard to prevent the smuggling of contraband items into the facility, leading inmates to also pilfer food from the kitchens since there are no fridges available in their living quarters.

A review of conditions at the correctional facility near Preston, Lancashire revealed the difficulties faced by inmates in purchasing food items such as bacon and sausages, resulting in thefts from the kitchen and the discovery of unauthorized food deliveries, including meat and takeout meals.

Additionally, the Independent Monitoring Board disclosed alarming statistics, reporting 1,000 drug seizures within a year, with 40% of tested inmates found to be under the influence of drugs. The challenge of combating drug importation and usage remains a top priority for the prison authorities.

Despite efforts to control the situation, incidents of contraband drops and items being tossed over the fence are common occurrences. There have been instances of prisoners returning from external work or family visits with illicit items in their possession, raising concerns about security measures at the facility.

Furthermore, the report highlighted the variety of activities available to inmates, including the recent opening of a new gym managed at a senior level. The enhanced facilities have led to a wider array of activities being offered to prisoners, such as free running, football, touch rugby, as well as weekend gym sessions, snooker, darts, cycling, and various arts and crafts activities.

The prison management acknowledged the need for increased vigilance, especially concerning searches of inmates returning from temporary release, but cited resource constraints and the trust placed on prisoners during external activities as limiting factors. Despite the challenges, efforts are being made to ensure a balance between security measures and prisoners’ participation in activities aimed at their rehabilitation and well-being.