Prison 'more robust' in dealing with drug problem

A Surrey prison where drugs were once described as easier to get hold of than sugar is making progress in its war against illicit substances, according to a new report.

Following its June inspection, the HM Inspectorate of Prisons said HMP High Down in Banstead had become "more robust" in its response to the problem, with positive random drug tests dropping from 31% during its 2023 audit to 19%.

But, despite that being "better than at many jails", the report added the number was still too high.

It said that drugs were still "the biggest threat to the stability of the prison" and keeping them out "remained a significant challenge".

Wing staff were also found not to be "sufficiently proactive" in dealing with low-level rule breaking, such as vaping in communal areas, which only served to "undermine efforts to promote positive behaviour and deter the use of contraband".

Neither was enough being done to prepare prisoners for their eventual release or to give them "purposeful activity", the report said.

It found that, while those attending courses or in full-time work could be out of their cell for up to 10.5 hours each day, those unemployed prisoners averaged only around 3.5 hours unlocked.

In addition, priority concerns from the previous audit - such as the threat of violence and prisoners feeling unsafe - had only been partially addressed, along with the lack of incentives for inmates to behave well.

However, concerns about the levels of self-harm being too high had been handled, with the number of incidents said to be 22% lower than at the last inspection.

Addicted prisoners wishing to kick their habit were also given "a comprehensive offer" to embark on recovery, the report said.

"This was a generally positive inspection and if the current leadership team continue in post there is good reason to expect further improvements," it added.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.