Prison with worst drugs rate sees problem get worse

More than 40% of inmates at HMP Kirkham tested positive for drug use

An open prison with the worst record for drug use among inmates has seen the problem get worse.

Last year, one in four prisoners at HMP Kirkham in Lancashire tested positive for drug use.

Despite a "concerted effort" by staff, the rate at this year's inspection was about 40%.

Inspectors said too many inmates were living in poor conditions, but said relationships between staff and inmates had improved.

'Frustrated and bored'

HMP Kirkham is a category D prison, which the government describes as having minimal security and allowing inmates the chance to spend time away on licence to carry out work or education.

Last year inspectors found the prison was "not fulfilling" its purpose.

Inmates found "illicit drugs were far too freely available" and that inmates "were frustrated and bored".

Since then the prison has hired a new member of staff to help roll out its drug strategy.

Voluntary drug tests and "incentives" to stay off drugs have also been introduced.

Chief inspector of prisons Charlie Taylor's report found "reasonable progress" had been made in improving good quality work opportunities, and better activities were available.

It acknowledged that a high turnover of prisoners had made it difficult to "cultivate a positive category D ethos".

A Prison Service spokesperson said: "We are pleased the Chief Inspector has recognised the positive progress made at HMP Kirkham in strengthening public protection and ensuring prisoners are accessing good work opportunities to aid their rehabilitation.

"While challenges remain around tackling drugs, we have already taken action to drive improvements.

"This includes a new unit to help prisoners recover from addiction and more drug testing to help early intervention."