A growing crisis in custody

Trigger warning: this episode contains references to self-harm and suicide, which some individuals may find distressing.

In this episode of The Prison Inspectors Podcast, we explore the growing crisis of mental illness in prisons.

Guest host Elizabeth Barker is joined by Kellie Reeve, Inspector, and Shaun Thomson, Health and Social Care Inspector, to discuss the findings from The Long Wait report and recently published blog. They reflect on what inspectors are seeing in court custody and prisons, and why increasing numbers of people with serious mental illness are waiting too long for appropriate care.

Together, they unpack the impact this has, not only on individuals who are mentally unwell, but also on other prisoners and staff, sharing powerful insights and examples from inspections.