HM Prison High Down – ‘Fostering a compassionate and effective approach to corrections that defies many of the usual perceptions.’

The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL, paid a visit to His Majesty’s Prison High Down where he observed the operations and met with inmates. allowing him a rare and meaningful insight into what he described as ‘a respectful, balanced atmosphere that has been cultivated.’

“The mutual respect and cooperation between the staff and inmates is remarkable,” he said, “I was particularly impressed by how attentively staff listened to the inmates’ concerns, taking time to address them personally, and by their genuine knowledge of each inmate’s background. This approach not only fosters trust but also contributes significantly to a cohesive, well-run environment that supports personal growth and rehabilitation.”

HMP High Down is a men’s category C prison and young offender institution (YOI) located near Banstead in Surrey. The facility holds 1203 prisoners and notably opened the renown “Clink” restaurant  in 2009 which was a ground breaking development in prisoner training opportunities.

Shahid continues, “It was a privilege to meet the prison Imam, and join the 200 Muslim inmates for Friday prayer in the Multi-Faith Centre and the sermon delivered was an inspirational reminder of individual responsibility, respect for others, and the pursuit of being a better human being – his delivery fostered a sense of community and encouraged personal reflection – qualities that clearly resonate well with the inmates.”

The High Sheriff pledged to contribute further by encouraging local volunteers to assist the prison with vocation training programs in plumbing, hairdressing, decoration, and brickwork. He added, “It is wonderful to know that organisations like ‘Elite Project Services’ ( read more at – https://inews.co.uk/news/uk/dwp-mentoring-scheme-ex-offenders-prison-leavers-944679), provide opportunities for inmates to work on real projects upon completion of training, and I look forward to facilitating additional support. Visiting High Down Prison was an eye-opening experience, and I am pleased to see such a compassionate and effective approach to corrections that defies many of the usual perceptions.”