HMP Kirkham

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Kirkham is a category D training prison occupying the site of a former RAF technical training centre. The facility was taken over by the Home Office in the early 1960's and has been in use as a prison since 1962. With few exceptions the infrastructure and services together with the buildings are of World War II vintage, though prisoner accommodation is relatively new.

A successful Waste Management programme was introduced in May 2004 resulting from the success of the Environmental Management System which was accredited to ISO14001 in December 2002.

HMCIP inspection took place in December 2004 with all four tests of a healthy prison (safety: respect: purposeful activity: resettlement) being assessed as performing reasonably well. Anne Owers comments being that overall Kirkham was an improving establishment showing signs of a renewed sense of purpose.

In June 2006 it was announced that Kirkham was one of the two prisons awarded most improved prison for 2005/06. The pace of change at the prison remains healthy and our move towards improving resettlement opportunities for offenders is progressing well.

Governor: John Hewitson

Operational capacity: 591 as of 25th October 2006

Reception criteria: Normal reception arrangements, Kirkham is a category D prison and accepts all suitable prisoners who fit Kirkham's criteria.

Accommodation: One purpose built block was completed in 1990 and this was the prototype living unit for the Kirkham redevelopment programme that commenced in 1993, with the building of six new 20 man accommodation blocks. Two RTU units were constructed and occupied in December 1996 and a further seven new 22 man blocks in 1999. All old accommodation is now replaced. A new block was built and opened in January 2004 to house up to 39 offenders sentenced to Intermittent Custody. This innovative approach to punishment will allow offenders in employment to remain so, and the unemployed to maintain family contact while acquiring training and skills to become employable.

Regime: Kirkham provides daytime, evening and weekend education. Offenders are also employed in the prisons workshops, farms and gardens and works departments. Resettlement opportunities are made available for all offenders dependant on their individual needs.

The custody to work scheme is operated for paid employment and community work. College placements are also arranged where appropriate.

www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder/kirkham/