Katie Price, the governor of HMP Wandsworth, has resigned following a troubling inspection by the Chief Inspector of Prisons, amid growing concerns over the conditions at the South London facility. This resignation was confirmed by the Prison Governors Association via X (formerly Twitter), noting that Price had decided to resign before the inspection but stayed to support her team through the process.
HMP Wandsworth, known for its overpopulation, has been the subject of multiple reports detailing conditions that include vermin infestations, mould, and sewage issues in cells, as well as understaffing and insufficient medical care for inmates. In response to these reports, the Wandsworth Prison Improvement Campaign (WPIC) was formed and held its first meeting earlier this month, which Governor Price did not attend.
Former prison chaplain Liz Bridge described the prison as “squalid,” criticizing the management and operational standards that have led to such conditions. Her charity, The Welfare Trust, has been banned from the prison on security grounds after she provided financial assistance to inmates.
The situation at Wandsworth has been further complicated by past incidents, including the escape of inmate Daniel Khalife in September 2023, who reportedly fled by hiding under a food delivery lorry. This incident has fueled criticisms of management incompetence and operational failures within the prison.
In a recent effort to address these issues, a prison service spokesperson stated that measures are being taken to improve safety and conditions at the facility. This includes increasing staff numbers and investing in infrastructure upgrades such as new CCTV systems, window replacements, roof repairs, and refurbishments to healthcare facilities.
Charlie Taylor, the HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, who previously suggested that the prison “really needs closing,” made an unannounced visit last week. The results of this inspection are pending, but the WPIC has indicated on X that an ‘Urgent Notification’ might soon be issued, reflecting serious concerns about the ongoing state of the prison.
As the community and authorities await the detailed findings of the inspection, the resignation of Governor Price marks a significant moment for HMP Wandsworth, pointing to potential systemic changes in the management and operation of the prison in the near future.
