Ex-workers tell of 'chaotic atmosphere' at new £400m prison
Former staff at the UK's new £400m HMP Millsike prison have reported a chaotic and unsafe working environment. The facility, which opened in 2025, has faced issues including under-staffing, disturbances, and security breaches.
Why it matters
The report raises significant questions about the efficacy of government prison infrastructure projects and the management of private-sector-run facilities.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, HMP Millsike was lauded by the government when it opened in March 2025
The UK's newest prison has had a "chaotic atmosphere" in its first 18 months, former workers have told a BBC investigation.
HMP Millsike, in East Yorkshire, was heralded by the government for setting "the standard for the future" when it opened in March 2025 with 1,500 places.
But former workers have described under-staffing, inadequate training and seeing specialist officers called in to deal with serious incidents on numerous occasions.
Mitie, the company that runs the category C prison, said safety was its "highest priority" and it was "operating in line with plans agreed with the Ministry of Justice".
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Shabana Mahmood (left), then justice secretary, on a tour of the prison with director Samantha Pariser in March 2025. Pariser was replaced in February this year
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