HMP Manchester, also known as Strangeways, remains in a 'precarious state' despite some improvements, according to a recent inspection report by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor. The prison faces severe challenges, including drug smuggling via drones through broken or insecure windows that have gone unfixed for two years due to bureaucratic planning processes.
Key Takeaways
HMP Manchester continues to struggle with drug smuggling via drones and high levels of violence despite some improvements. A recent inspection report highlights ongoing issues including insecure windows, high drug use among inmates, and a lack of meaningful activities for prisoners.
- Drones continue to deliver drugs through broken prison windows unaddressed for two years
- 38% of inmates tested positive for drugs; high levels of violence persist
- Ministry of Justice acknowledges problems and promises urgent action on security upgrades
- 40% of prisoners are unemployed, often locked in cells with little purposeful activity
The report highlights that about 38% of inmates tested positive for drug use, and high levels of violence persist within the facility. While Taylor noted that the governor and his team have restored an element of stability, he emphasized that the situation remains fragile. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has acknowledged these issues and stated it is taking urgent action to stop drones, upgrade security, and tackle the flow of drugs.
The inspection also found that 40% of prisoners are unemployed and often locked up in their cells for extended periods with little purposeful activity. Taylor stressed the need for more determined action from HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) to improve physical security and provide meaningful activities for inmates. Enver Solomon, chief executive of social justice charity Nacro, described the report as a 'damning indictment' of the prison system in crisis.
The BBC understands that since the report, the prison has developed a new education, skills, and work program. All staff now receive suicide and self-harm prevention and mental health awareness training to better support prisoners in distress. However, Taylor warned that without more determined action from HMPPS, drugs will continue to undermine efforts to improve the situation.
The Guardian reported that 39% of prisoners surveyed in 2024/25 said it was easy to obtain drugs, while 19% of female prisoners had developed drug problems in jail. The rate of positive results in random drug tests regularly topped 30%. Taylor expressed frustration over the government's slow response to addressing the threat from drug dealers using drones. Despite a £40m investment in prison security, including £10m on anti-drone measures such as nets and signal blockers, progress has been alarmingly slow.
The Prison Service was criticized for valuing 'plodding managerialism' over hands-on leadership needed to address urgent issues like replacing broken windows. Taylor's warnings about the link between drug use and increased violence were underscored by a 2024 inspection of Wandsworth prison, which recorded a significant rise in violence and ubiquitous cannabis use.
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