Britain’s prisons are at breaking point.

In recent weeks, the media has focused on the issue of overcrowding. It is, however, only the tip of the iceberg. Living conditions for prisoners are brutal. Extremism is widespread. The HM Prison Service workforce is overwhelmed and understaffed. And the reinsertion of prisoners into society all too often fails. The British prison system is no longer fit for purpose. It is high time for a new one.

The Henry Jackson Society is releasing a report laying out a blueprint for prison reform. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on this important but often neglected issue.

Professor Ian Acheson

Professor Ian Acheson is a senior advisor for the Counter Extremism Project. He was formerly a prison governor and Director of Community Safety at the Home Office. His book, Screwed: Britain’s Prison Crisis and How to Escape It, is out now.

Darryn Frost QGM

Darryn Frost QGM is the co-founder of Own Merit CIC, an initiative that works with, and houses, prison leavers at risk of homelessness. He has worked for HM Prison and Probation Service as National Communications Manager. In 2019 he was involved in tackling a terrorist on London Bridge. He was awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal (QGM) in 2023.

Dr Theo Zenou

Dr Theo Zenou is a research fellow at HJS. He has a PhD in history from Cambridge and has written for The Washington Post, The Economist and Sunday Times.

This event can only be watched online. To register, please click HERE