A SCATHING report has slammed the effect of budget cuts which have led to "a dreadful year" for Banstead's High Down prison.
The latest review by the jail's independent monitoring board paints a dismal picture of the situation. High Down is an "unhappy" place for both staff and inmates, the report concludes.
Staffing cuts last year have led to its 1,100 male prisoners being banged up in their cells for longer, and reduced their chances of rehabilitation. Meanwhile morale amongst staff has "plummeted".
In a question posed directly to the Prison Minister, the board asks: "Has the Minister truly taken on board the effects that these cuts will inevitability make on the avowed policy of reducing reoffending?"
The report praises the governor, Ian Bickers, who took up his post at the prison in January 2013. It says issues created by "swingeing cuts" are reflected nationally.
"No-one outside the prison service can understand quite what these changes have meant," the report reads. "It feels pared to the bone and beyond.
"The area manager himself has told the board that this has been the most difficult period he has ever known."
It concludes: "In summary, 2013 has been a dreadful year for High Down. The many changes, most outside the control of anyone working within it, have produced an unhappy prison for those that live and work within its confines.
"Nevertheless, and within the imposed limits, the board notes that High Down still makes every attempt to treat prisoners humanely and fairly. There have been many examples of good and dedicated work by officers and managers, with a continuing commitment to safety and security. The governor and deputy deserve much praise for holding their nerve and steering High Down through these difficult times."
