Drug smuggling still an ongoing issue at Hertfordshire prison, say monitors
Independent monitors say drugs and staff shortages remain key challenges at HMP The Mount
Progress at HMP The Mount is being limited by ongoing issues including drugs, staffing shortages and pressure on the prison system, according to independent monitors.
The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) says the prison has continued to improve over the past year, with better relationships between staff and prisoners and the introduction of a new regime designed to support men throughout their sentence and beyond.
However, in its latest annual report, published on 5 August 2026, the Board says fundamental issues remain unresolved and are being made worse by a lack of support from HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and the Ministry of Justice.
The report highlights the continued flow of illicit items, particularly drugs, into the prison. The IMB says this contributes to addiction, debt and further offending.
While local police co-operation has improved, the Board warns the issue is likely to continue because criminal gangs’ technology, finances and determination are outpacing the prison service’s ability to respond.
The IMB also raised concerns about staffing levels in the offender management unit, with more than 20% of prisoners still waiting to be assigned a Prison Offender Manager.
These staff assess risk, create sentence plans and help prepare prisoners for release, but the unit has faced additional pressure from early release schemes and changes to recall arrangements.
The Board also criticised delays in prisoners receiving their property after transfers, describing the issue as a source of frustration.
HMP The Mount IMB Chair Simon Clarke said: “We have seen improvements at HMP The Mount since the Board’s last annual report and commend the Governor and his staff on the progress that has been achieved in challenging circumstances.”
But he warned: “The fundamental issues affecting HMP The Mount, and prisons more widely, are simply not being addressed.”
Mr Clarke added that until a wider strategy for prisons is developed and the prison population crisis is tackled, “it is unlikely that outcomes for prisoners will show any material signs of improvement.”
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: "This report recognises the hard work of staff at HMP The Mount, whose efforts are helping to put prisons on a more stable footing.
"We know prisons need more support, which is why former Home Secretary Amber Rudd is leading an independent review of the prison system.
"The review will help tackle longstanding problems and develop a long-term plan to build safer prisons, reduce reoffending and better protect the public."