Who cares? A consultation on ageing and lost milestones in prison by HMP Rye Hill Building Futures Network Group

The Building Futures Network, launched in 2021, explores the challenges faced by prisoners serving long custodial sentences. HMP Rye Hill is one of eight working groups within this network, with its members playing a significant role in shaping policy and contributing to national discussions on the impacts of long-term imprisonment. Through these contributions, the group ensures that their voices are heard and considered in the ongoing dialogue around prison reform.

One of the most pressing issues emerging from these discussions is the rapidly growing ageing prison population. Older prisoners, particularly those aged 60 and over, are now the fastest-growing demographic in English and Welsh prisons. This increase presents a significant challenge for the criminal justice system, raising critical questions about whether the prison system is equipped to meet the needs of an ageing population.

In collaboration with PRT, the Building Futures Network at HMP Rye Hill conducted a consultation with 32 long-term prisoners serving sentences of 10 years or more. The consultation explored the impact of ageing in custody and how the system can better meet the needs of older prisoners. The report provides valuable insights into the specific concerns of older prisoners and offers recommendations to address this growing issue. It also stresses the importance of viewing prisoners as individuals, rather than simply through the lens of their crimes.