Pact response to urgent notification for HMP Pentonville

In response to the publication of an Urgent Notification for HMP Pentonville, Andy Keen-Downs, CEO of the Prison Advice and Care Trust (Pact) said: 

"This is a deeply worrying report and a damning indictment of the squalid conditions in which prisoners are being held. It is a particular concern that there is insufficient care for people who are at imminent risk of self-harm.

"This is yet another reminder that the prison system is in the midst of a crisis. It is a crisis that stems from political decisions stretching back decades and a conveyor belt of ministers who have largely failed to display the courage required to deliver change. A year on from the election, this Government has brought with it a sense of hope and optimism, but the scale of the challenge is huge. 

"As the charity that supports prisoners to stay in touch with their family at Pentonville, we offer HMPPS our full support in efforts to improve standards in the prison."

Families with concerns can e-mail the Pact Visitors' Centre at HMP Pentonville on pentonville@prisonadvice.org.uk 

Alternatively they can call the Prisoners' Families Helpline on 0808 808 2003.