Rising prison numbers lead to more use of force

Les Nicolles saw its highest prison population since the pandemic

Guernsey's rising prison population has led to an increase in the use of force at the facility, according to the annual report for 2024.

Last year the prison saw 33 use of force incidents, up from 20 in 2023.

However, the report indicates the injuries during these incidents have been minimal.

The prison also saw the highest number of inmates since the Covid pandemic, with 99 prisoners at Les Nicolles in November.

Prison governor John De Carteret blamed the high numbers on overcrowding in UK prisons stopping transfers.

On the issue of discipline and safety, the prison saw 171 offences in 2024, more than double the 67 in 2023.

Prison governor John De Carteret blamed the high numbers of prisoners on overcrowded prisons in the UK

Guernsey's only prison has space for 134 prisoners at capacity.

The majority of inmates held during 2024 were either held after being convicted of sexual offences or drug crimes.

In his foreword to the report John De Carteret, the prison governor said: "The population remained complex, with an increase in sex offenders, women, and the continued accommodation of children within the environment."

The average daily prison population throughout 2024 was 90, with the highest daily population reaching 99 and the lowest being 80.

Finding housing for prisoners leaving Les Nicolles has continued to be an issue for staff at the facility.

The 2024 annual report stated: "One of the biggest barriers we face to successful rehabilitation of offenders is the evident lack of suitable accommodation on [the] island.

"We find the housing issue has become even more prevalent during 2024 and due to the current climate, our client group are not a population generally prioritised by accommodation providers."

Prisoners are able to work in the horticulture facilities at Les Nicolles to grow produce to be used in the kitchen

In 2024 75% of the prison population engaged in some form of education, while 95% of prisoners worked daily.

Only prisoners over retirement age or on remand are not required to work, though officials have stated prisoners in these categories still often choose to do so.

Prisoners are able to work in the prison kitchens, grow vegetables in the gardens, work as gym assistants, use the workshops to create woodwork, help maintain the prison, clean the facility or work as librarians.

A total of 145 qualifications were achieved across a range of subjects, from basic literacy qualifications to university degrees, at Les Nicolles Prison.