Privately Run HMP Millsike Proposes Zero-Hours Contracts for Custody Officers

The adverts, issued through the Sangfroid Group, describe two work patterns: a rotational schedule of 2–3 weeks per month with deployments of up to five consecutive days, or a contingent-worker model offering ad-hoc assignments. Mitie has submitted a proposal to the Prison Service to employ these staff on zero-hours contracts; a government official confirmed the proposal is under consideration.

The Guardian

HMP Millsike opened in March 2025 and is funded at roughly £400 million. The prison currently has about 350 empty cells, a shortfall linked to a broader staffing crisis: in June there were more than 1,600 vacancies for prison officers across England and Wales, while the workforce stands at roughly 22,000. Mitie receives about £33 million annually to run the facility and has faced criticism since opening, including an Independent Monitoring Board report that highlighted “inconsistent gate security” and high violence levels.

The Guardian

• £25 per hour advertised rate for escort duties.

The Guardian

• 1,500-capacity prison with ~350 vacant cells.

The Guardian

• £400 million construction cost; £33 million annual contract to Mitie.

The Guardian

• 1,600+ officer vacancies nationwide; 248 officers joined in June, 256 left.

The Guardian

A Mitie spokesperson said: “HMP Millsike continues to operate in line with the ramp-up plans agreed with the Ministry of Justice, with staffing and recruitment aligned to the prison’s phased population buildup. We remain focused on maintaining a safe, secure and supportive environment for prisoners and colleagues.” — Mitie spokesperson

The Guardian

The spokesperson also referenced a capacity crisis, citing the construction of 14,000 new places, of which 3,200 are already delivered.

The Guardian

The POA has called on the prime minister to intervene, linking the plan to the government’s pledge to curb zero-hours contracts that undermine workers’ rights.

The Guardian

• “HMP Millsike continues to operate in line with the ramp-up plans agreed with the Ministry of Justice, with staffing and recruitment aligned to the prison’s phased population buildup. We remain focused on maintaining a safe, secure and supportive environment for prisoners and colleagues.” — Mitie spokesperson

The Guardian