HMP Dartmoor

Princetown, Devon

Contact: Jackie Thomas
Phone: 07785 280627

A large training prison with workshops, vocational training and education, holding 625 adult male category C prisoners (those who cannot be trusted in open conditions but are unlikely to escape). Over 200 of the prisoners are held in separate Vulnerable Prisoners Unit (VPU). A resettlement unit for category D prisoners has recently opened.

The prison was built in 1809 by French and American prisoners of war. It became a criminal prison in 1850. most of the current buildings date form the late 19th century. Three of the large prison wings have recently been refurbished. New Construction Industry Training workshops for Carpentry/Joinery, Bricklaying, Plumbing and Painting and Decorating have recently become available.

In addition to the core curriculum subjects which are provided in the main prison and in the separate VDU, a Firm Start course is provided for inmates who wish to set up and control their own business on release. Provision is made for inmates to study minority subjects through accredited correspondence courses. Up to 12 inmates are pursuing Open University degree courses. Other courses include NVQ Business Administration, Journalism (NVQ), Customer Service, Food Hygiene, ICT and Basic Skills.

The education equipment and materials are adequate. A new education centre was brought into use in May 2002. Education and NVQ training is provided throughout the prison workshops. The average length of stay in the prison is 9 months. 60% of prisoners require drug rehabilitation, 20% ESOL and 75% Basic Skills training.