Cheap Prison Calls:
The 5 Safest Prisons in the UK

The UK prison system is made up of various facilities, each designed to cater to different categories of inmates based on the severity of their crimes and their risk levels. While prisons are often portrayed as dangerous environments, many UK institutions are managed with a high emphasis on safety, security, and prisoner well-being. This article explores the five safest prisons in the UK, looking at the reasons why these facilities are considered to be secure and well-maintained, providing a stable environment for inmates and staff alike.

We’ll examine factors such as low levels of violence, strong rehabilitation programs, effective staffing, and advanced security measures to understand what makes these prisons stand out. Safety in a prison setting doesn't just refer to physical security—it also includes mental and emotional well-being, which is increasingly becoming a focus within the UK's prison system.

1. HMP Grendon

HMP Grendon, located in Buckinghamshire, is often lauded as one of the safest prisons in the UK. Known for its therapeutic community approach, Grendon is a Category B men’s prison that primarily houses prisoners who volunteer to undergo intensive psychological therapy. The prison's focus on rehabilitation, treatment of inmates, and addressing underlying mental health issues has contributed to its reputation as a safe environment.

HMP Grendon's emphasis on psychological therapy and a structured, supportive community results in reduced violence and conflict. Inmates are encouraged to participate in group therapy sessions, where they discuss their feelings and behaviour in a controlled environment. This focus on self-awareness and rehabilitation reduces the likelihood of aggressive outbursts and violent behavior. The community-based system ensures that prisoners work together, building trust and fostering respect among inmates and staff.Additionally, prisoners at Grendon undergo intensive screening before they are accepted, ensuring that only those committed to rehabilitation enter the program, which further reduces the risk of disruptive behaviour.

Prisoners participate in a range of therapeutic programs aimed at addressing underlying issues such as substance abuse, violent behaviour, and mental health conditions. The prison’s goal is to help prisoners change their behaviour patterns and reintegrate into society after release. The structured and supportive environment encourages inmates to work on their personal growth, making Grendon one of the safest prisons in terms of mental well-being and violence reduction.

2. HMP Askham Grange

HMP Askham Grange is a women's open prison located near York. It’s a Category D facility, meaning it houses inmates who are deemed to pose a low risk to the public. With a strong focus on rehabilitation, resettlement, and preparing inmates for reintegration into society, Askham Grange is often regarded as one of the safest prisons for women in the UK.

The open nature of the prison, combined with its commitment to rehabilitation, creates a relatively calm and secure environment. Inmates are encouraged to work and develop skills that will assist them post-release. The prison’s open regime allows inmates to maintain strong family ties and even participate in community activities under supervision.The low-security classification of the prison means that it houses inmates who are nearing the end of their sentences and have demonstrated good behavior. This helps to create a peaceful atmosphere, where prisoners are motivated to maintain discipline to facilitate their eventual release.

Askham Grange provides various educational and vocational programs aimed at helping inmates transition back into society. By focusing on work experience, life skills, and personal development, the prison reduces the chances of reoffending, contributing to its reputation as a safe and rehabilitative environment. Family visits and the ability for inmates to have time outside the prison walls for work purposes help create a supportive environment that prioritises mental and emotional well-being.

3. HMP Low Newton

HMP Low Newton, a women’s prison in County Durham, is widely known for its focus on providing mental health support and protection for vulnerable inmates. It is a closed facility, meaning that it houses inmates of higher security categories, but it has earned praise for its commitment to safety and well-being.

Low Newton has a dedicated unit for women with mental health issues and those considered particularly vulnerable. The prison offers specialised mental health services and interventions, ensuring that these inmates receive the care and attention they need. This focus on mental health reduces the risk of violence and self-harm, making the prison safer for both inmates and staff.The prison also has an active suicide prevention program and provides inmates with access to a range of therapies, including psychological counseling and substance abuse treatment. These services are critical in ensuring that inmates with complex needs are supported, creating a safer and more stable environment within the facility.

Low Newton has a specialised wing called the Primrose Service, which is dedicated to providing treatment for women with severe personality disorders. This service helps reduce the risk of dangerous behavior by addressing the root causes of inmates' psychological issues. The prison’s commitment to mental health support and reducing vulnerability ensures a higher level of safety for its population.

4. HMP Hollesley Bay

HMP Hollesley Bay, located in Suffolk, is an open prison for male inmates. It has earned a reputation for being one of the safest prisons in the UK due to its rehabilitative focus and minimal security risks. As a Category D prison, Hollesley Bay houses inmates who are considered to pose a low risk to the public, and many of its residents are nearing the end of their sentences.

The open regime at Hollesley Bay allows inmates a greater degree of freedom, including opportunities to work outside the prison and participate in educational and vocational training. The prison’s emphasis on resettlement and personal development creates an environment where inmates are focused on building skills and preparing for life after release, rather than engaging in disruptive behavior.The low-security nature of the facility, combined with the open and trusting environment, reduces the likelihood of violence or conflict. Inmates are motivated to follow the rules and participate in programs that will help them reintegrate into society, which further contributes to the prison’s overall safety.

Hollesley Bay offers a range of work opportunities, both within the prison and in the surrounding community. Inmates can gain valuable skills in areas such as farming, construction, and catering, which helps them build a positive future after their release. The prison’s focus on preparing inmates for life after prison contributes to its reputation as a safe and supportive environment.

5. HMP Berwyn

HMP Berwyn is one of the largest prisons in the UK, located in Wrexham, North Wales. Opened in 2017, Berwyn is a Category C men’s prison that has been designed with rehabilitation and inmate well-being in mind. The prison has a strong focus on creating a positive and supportive environment for its inmates.HMP Berwyn was built with safety and rehabilitation as top priorities. The prison’s design includes modern facilities that promote mental and physical well-being, such as spacious cells with natural light and access to educational and recreational programs. Berwyn’s approach to rehabilitation involves treating prisoners with respect and dignity, which helps to foster a calmer and more cooperative atmosphere.Staff at Berwyn are trained to engage with inmates in a constructive way, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing reoffending. The prison also offers a range of educational and vocational programs, giving inmates the skills they need to reintegrate into society after their release.

‍HMP Berwyn’s commitment to positive engagement with inmates, combined with its focus on rehabilitation, sets it apart from other prisons. The facility offers a range of educational and vocational training programs, as well as support for inmates with mental health or addiction issues. The emphasis on personal development helps to reduce the likelihood of violence and reoffending, contributing to a safer environment for everyone.

Safety in a prison setting is determined by a combination of factors, including the prison’s security measures, the behavior of inmates, and the quality of rehabilitation programs. The five prisons listed here—HMP Grendon, HMP Askham Grange, HMP Low Newton, HMP Hollesley Bay, and HMP Berwyn—are all recognized for their commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for inmates and staff.

By focusing on rehabilitation, mental health support, and resettlement, these prisons create an atmosphere where inmates are encouraged to grow, learn, and prepare for life after their release. As a result, these prisons stand out as some of the safest facilities in the UK.