HMP Oakwood slammed by prison inspectors

The biggest prison in the country, HMP Oakwood, has been slammed by inspectors.

HMP Oakwood, which can hold 1,600 prisoners, had inexperienced staff and high levels of violence and self-harm, said HM Inspectorate of Prisons following a surprise visit.

The report found that the prison, known as "Jokewood", needs to address its approach to the near-300 sex offenders it holds, many of whom were due for release without their offending having been addressed.

G4S, which runs the prison, says it has already taken steps to make improvements.