Independent Monitors publish report on HMP Cardiff

The Independent Monitoring Board for HMP Cardiff, chaired by Rhiwbina resident Lynne Schofield, has published its annual report.

If you haven't heard of Independent Monitoring Boards (IMB), you may recall their predecessors Prison Boards of Visitors?

IMBs are statutory bodies, made up of over 1,000 unpaid volunteers operating in every prison in England and Wales, and every immigration detention facility across the UK.

IMB members are public appointees, appointed by ministers to report on whether

those detained in prison are being treated fairly and humanely and whether they are

being given the support they need to turn their lives around.

HMP Cardiff "IMGP6033" by mattbuck4950 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

The IMB has three main duties, to: monitor the prison; be available to prisoners to hear problems; and produce an annual report for the Secretary of State for Justice.

In its recently published annual report for 2024-25, the IMB for Cardiff has welcomed a reduction of 50% in incidents of self-harm among prisoners and the use of force reducing by 25%. But it continues to express concerns about the condition of the prison’s largely Georgian and Victorian infrastructure, population pressures and ongoing staffing shortages.

In a press notice, the Board states: “We recognise the hard work of prison staff and the introduction of new processes, which have contributed to the reduction in self-harm and the use of force. 

"However, the Board remains concerned about the condition of the ageing prison, with many cramped cells, originally built for single occupancy, now housing two prisoners who must eat and share a toilet in the same space. In addition a number of buildings have been condemned and there have been ongoing problems with heating, hot water and telephone services".

Lynne added: "Our Board in Cardiff is currently recruiting new members. This is a unique role with unrestricted access to the establishments and to everything that happens within them, giving insight into a world few people see.

"Our observations and insights provide a reality check on what is actually happening rather than what is supposed to be happening. As the eyes and ears of the public, we take this responsibility very seriously.

"We are looking for people who share our values and commitment and are keen to give back to their community. We welcome people from all walks of life – prisoners come from all backgrounds and so should our members".

If you are over 18 and live within 30 miles of HMP Cardiff and want to find out more about this voluntary role, visit www.imb.org.uk. The closing date is 18 February.