Stafford Prison releasing 'high risk' prisoners without support

In particular, the report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons highlighted the fact that sex offenders were being released 'without necessary resettlement support', which was creating 'significant risks'.

Around 20-25 prisoners are released from the jail each month with 'outstanding resettlement needs' as they do not get the support they need to integrate back into local communities.

Figures in the report show that more than 10 per cent of men discharged by HMP Stafford in the previous six months were homeless, including high risk prisoners. This includes one 'high risk sex offender' who was released without an address and without any work being done to reduce his risk of reoffending.

The report also raised concerns over the 'unchallenging' work prisoners were being set, the lack of 'alternative provision' for the two-thirds of prisoners ineligble for the sex offender treatment programme and the fact there were 'too many' cancelled external hospital appointments.

Despite the failings, the prison was praised for its low number of 'bullying and violent incidents', the comparable low number of 'self-harm incidents', the fact the prison was 'very well maintained and clean throughout' and that most prisoners were 'involved in work or education'.

Michael Spurr, the chief executive of the National Offender Management Service, said: "This is a positive report which shows the progress Stafford has made in creating a safer environment for the prisoners it holds.

"There are low levels of violence and self-harm, good staff-prisoner relationships and high levels of prisoners taking part in work and education – which is a credit to the Governor and his staff.

"The Governor is now working with partners, including NHS England, to address the concerns around resettlement provision and health care."

The chief inspector of prisons Peter Clarke added: "During the inspection I was able to detect a distinct sense of pride in the prison across all levels of staff and among some prisoners. There is still much work to be done at Stafford, particularly in the areas of health care and resettlement, if the progress that has been made is to be consolidated and built upon."