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Prison Governors Warn Against Unsafe Cell Doubling Amid Overcrowding
By Drooid · · How we work
Safety Warning to Prison Governors
The Prison Governors' Association (PGA) has circulated a six-page letter to governors across England and Wales, urging strict compliance with health- and-safety law when allocating cells. The guidance stresses that any cell used for more than one inmate must meet safety standards and be appropriate for the number of occupants.
Overcrowding Pressures on the Adult Male Estate
Prison staff report that the adult male estate is experiencing worsening overcrowding, leading some facilities to place two prisoners in cells originally designed for a single occupant. Governors note that many older establishments suffer from failing infrastructure, including heating, plumbing, toilets and sinks, which makes the practice of “doubling up” particularly problematic. The pressure to maintain operational capacity is described as a key driver of the current cell-sharing arrangements.
Ministry of Justice Response
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice clarified that cell doubling is permitted only when it can be done safely. The department emphasizes that safety assessments must be completed before any two-person occupancy is approved, reinforcing the legal requirement highlighted in the PGA’s letter.
Health and Safety Implications
The combination of overcrowding and deteriorating facilities raises concerns about inmate welfare, including risks related to inadequate heating, sanitation and overall living conditions. Officials warn that cramming prisoners into unsuitable cells does not resolve capacity issues and may exacerbate health and safety problems within the prison system. The PGA’s warning and the Ministry’s safety condition aim to curb unsafe practices while the broader challenge of prison overcrowding remains unresolved.