The report by Dr Jayne Price, published today by the Prison Reform Trust, calls on the Ministry of Justice to publish a national strategy for the care and management of older prisoners as a matter of urgency.

The number of over-50s in prison in England and Wales has nearly trebled in the past 20 years, rising from around 5,000 in 2003 to almost 15,000 in 2023 – making them account for around one in six people currently in prison (17 per cent).

Based on consultation with 121 men and women aged 50 and over serving these sentences in 39 prisons in the UK, the report provides insights into their experience of being older and in prison, as well as proposals to ensure that their views are considered as part of the development of an older prisoners’ strategy.

The report reveals some of the distinct challenges faced by older people in prison. These include the disconnect between activities aimed at reducing reoffending and preparing for a life after release, whilst simultaneously facing the prospect of their own death in prison; their desire to regain purpose and to support younger prisoners; and the importance of dignity when faced with growing health and social care needs.

It questions “whether prisons are suitable places for older people on longer sentences who pose a low risk or whether a blend of care and security measures within community supervision could provide a more humane approach”.

Although it accepts that “the provision of secure social care in the community is understandably controversial”, the report recommends that “the MoJ should pilot such an approach, engaging the public in the process”.

Pia Sinha, chief executive of the Prison Reform Trust said: “With one in six people in prison now aged 50 or over, there is a growing urgency for our prisons to adapt.

“The last government accepted the need for an older prisoners’ strategy more than three-and-a-half years ago, but failed to deliver one. This sobering report highlights the continuing indignity, absence of hope, and lack of opportunities to contribute positively to prison life for many older prisoners.

“When so much resource is being dedicated to getting through the current crisis in prison capacity, and no clear plan on how to successfully manage the growing number of older people behind bars, this report provides a vital insight of the human costs, and how the government can begin to put things right.”