'Ageing' prison unsafe for inmates says watchdog

Inspectors have said a prison in Leicestershire is struggling to provide a "safe and decent" environment for inmates.

The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) said on Wednesday the "ageing" HMP Gartree, near Market Harborough, had "deteriorating infrastructure", while repairs and maintenance were "inadequate".

As well as issues including the heating, leaking roofs and broken showers, the watchdog raised concerns with healthcare provision, access to mental health services, an "influx" of drugs and illicit items, and support for rehabilitation.

IMB chair Steve Martin spoke to BBC Leicester's Ady Dayman.

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said it acknowledged "the challenges at HMP Gartree" and added that work was under way to address the IMB's concerns.

A Practice Plus Group (PPG) spokesperson added it had "reduced reliance on agency staff" and "increased the number of patients with urgent mental health needs who are seen within 48 hours".