Prison violence across England and Wales has reached alarming levels, with an average of 74 assaults recorded daily in 2023, including 25 attacks per day targeting staff members, according to new research from the House of Commons library. Commissioned by the Liberal Democrats, the data highlights a system plagued by overcrowding, poor conditions, and increasing violence.
The report reveals that a total of 26,912 assaults occurred in prisons last year, with approximately 3,200 classified as serious—averaging eight per day. These figures represent a sharp 28% rise compared to 2022.
Most Violent Prisons in England and Wales
HMP Wandsworth in southwest London reported the highest number of assaults, recording 1,044 incidents, over half of which (571) were against staff. HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, North Wales, followed with 783 assaults, while Thameside Prison in southeast London ranked third with 667 incidents.
Overcrowding and Early Releases
The Labour government, upon taking office in July 2023, inherited a prison system at breaking point. Overcrowded facilities and deteriorating infrastructure forced the government to authorize early releases for prisoners who had served just 40% of their sentences, exacerbating public safety concerns.
Calls for Action
Josh Babarinde, the Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson, called for immediate reforms to ensure safer prisons.
“Labour must recruit and retain more prison officers, tackle the criminal courts backlog, and invest properly in rehabilitation to reduce reoffending,” Babarinde said. “The Conservatives have left a system that is failing prison staff, victims, and communities.”
The Ministry of Justice defended its efforts to tackle violence, citing the introduction of Pava synthetic pepper spray and body-worn cameras for prison staff.
Long-Term Solutions
Former Conservative justice secretary David Gauke, leading a government review of sentencing, advocated for alternative approaches, including increased use of open prisons. Gauke, inspired by reforms in Spain, highlighted the benefits of structured programs that integrate work and rehabilitation outside traditional prison environments.
“Our prisons have run out of space, but there’s an opportunity to rethink our approach,” Gauke said. The review will explore tougher punishments outside incarceration to ensure sufficient capacity for the most dangerous offenders.
