More prisons than ever rated a 'concern', including Birmingham
Birmingham prison is currently 40% over-capacity.
More prisons than ever have been given a rating of "concern" by the Ministry of Justice, including Birmingham.
It is currently 40% over capacity which is higher than the national average, holding around 1450 prisoners whilst having a capacity for 1000.
The performance ratings come amid concerns over rising deaths in prisons which has seen a 30% increase in the last year, as well as the highest rate of self-harm since records began in 2004.
In the 12 months to June 2025, 401 people died in prison, compared to 308 in the previous 12 months.
The increase was reflective of a rise in deaths classified as "natural causes" and "awaiting further information".
Mr Neilson explains there is a "changing demographic" in prisons.
"We are seeing the prison population get much older, which partly explains the rise in natural deaths.
"There is also a rise in deaths which haven't yet been classified and I suspect that is related to drugs in prison.
"That won't necessarily mean overdosing, but deaths linked to drug-taking such as heart attacks."
The government Safety in Custody statistics also revealed seven people died as a result of homicide in the 12 months to June 2025. In the 12 months prior, there were no homicides.
Mr Neilson believes the dramatic rise in in-prison deaths is linked to overcrowding.
"Overcrowding puts the system under huge pressure.
"We need to do something about this urgently. It is unconscionable to see a 30% rise in deaths in custody, and these continued spikes in self-harm and assault.
"The early release scheme introduced by the Government certainly releases pressure but it is an emergency measure.
"We need lasting solutions so prisons can focus on the people they are holding and properly direct resources in that direction.
"Exposing people to these failing institutions where deaths, distress, and violence, is the norm, is no way to prepare individuals for safe and crime-free life on release."
We've contacted the Ministry of Justice for comment.