Prisoner death investigations: improving safety in prisons and societies

All deaths in custody in England and Wales are investigated by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman, as well as being subject to a Coroner’s inquest. However, the number of deaths, including those that are self-inflicted remains high as do incidents of assault and self-harm.

Addressing limited translation of Prisons and Probation Ombudsman fatal incident investigation recommendations into practice, this project explored how PPO recommendations and investigation reports could stimulate safety improvements across the prison estate. This partnership between the Ombudsman and the University of Nottingham has now produced a globally relevant and unique dataset, including reflections from (former) prisoners, PPO staff, prison governors, Safer Custody Group Leads, Coroners and bereaved families.

This data is currently being analysed to produce a first-of-its kind evidence base to inform preventative and responsive prison oversight around the world.