Prisons Tackle COVID-19 with Sharp New Measures
Prisons Minister Lucy Frazer has revealed fresh updates on the fight against COVID-19 inside UK jails. Thanks to tough new measures, the spread of the virus is being held firmly in check – and lives are being saved.
Virus Spread in Jails Slashed
New modelling from Public Health England (PHE) and HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) reveals a sharp drop in infection rates inside prisons. The R rate – the number of people infected by one case – has fallen below one, signalling the outbreak is shrinking. Infection rates are on the decline, far better than earlier gloomy forecasts.
- Strict isolation of symptomatic prisoners.
- Shielding vulnerable inmates.
- Quarantining new arrivals.
This “compartmentalisation” strategy has been a game changer since February, limiting the virus spread and ensuring most prisoners infected have now recovered.
Cutting Prison Numbers to Curb COVID
HMPPS slashed inmate movements in March to stop mass infections. They also fast-tracked early releases for low-risk offenders and expanded prison spaces with temporary cells. Efforts to reduce remand prisoners are speeding up too.
The latest data suggests cutting the prison population by 5,000 could significantly contain the virus. So far, inmate numbers are down by almost 3,000 in just seven weeks.
Minister Praises Staff and Prisoners
This Government has taken unprecedented action during this difficult period to save lives and protect the NHS,” said Lucy Frazer QC MP. “I cannot express sufficient gratitude to the hard-working prison and healthcare staff, and prisoners, who have allowed this to take place. My thoughts are with all those affected by this terrible virus.”
Frazer admitted challenges remain and tough wartime measures will continue, but she highlighted encouraging signs that infection and death rates within jails remain far below early predictions.
Protective Gear and Testing Upgraded
Prison staff are returning to duty in large numbers, supported by mass testing – over 1,000 tested in the last two weeks alone – and better personal protective equipment (PPE). Soap and cleaning supplies are fully stocked in every jail.
Work to create more single-occupancy cells is speeding ahead, alongside the continued release of low-risk offenders and efforts to fast-track remand hearings. All actions are guided by expert advice from PHE and will be constantly reviewed.
