Independent Monitoring Board’s report illustrates a prison system that is facing a major crisis

Issues that have been trailed for some time are now coming to a head with worsening conditions for the prison population. But it isn’t just about the welfare of ex-offenders.

The issues highlighted in the IMB’s report could add further to the already overbearing burden on the prison system.

The most effective way of ensuring ex-offenders don’t fall back into a life of crime is to ensure that they are given proper access to rehabilitation.

However, the perpetual crisis in the prison system means that many of these institutes are not in any position to even begin to think about life beyond the cells for inmates.

The current situation with overcrowding has led to the Government considering an early release for some prisoners.

That is not the answer. It simply highlights the failure of the Government to get to grips with problems in the prison estate. Such measures would also send the wrong signal to offenders.

One of the alarming points raised by the IMB report is that there is a continued lack of regime and purposeful activity thanks to staff shortages. This leaves prisoners bored and directionless. Not only is this not good for their mental wellbeing but it is also likely to have consequences when they begin the process of reintegrating into civilian life.

There is clearly a need to build more prisons, hire more staff and to also shore up the existing estate. But these things won’t come overnight.

The Justice Secretary should be making the prisons crisis his top priority. Not only dealing with current issues but also taking a long-term view when it comes to breaking the cycle of reoffending.