Zero-Hours Custody Officers in Private Prison Spark Burnham Pressure 2026

Zero-hours custody officers in private prison HMP Millsike have sparked pressure on Andy Burnham to intervene, as Mitie seeks to recruit staff on flexible, task-based contracts. The move has raised serious concerns about prison safety and workers' rights across England and Wales.

Zero-Hours Contracts in Private Prisons: A Growing Concern

The privately run HMP Millsike, a category C prison near York, has advertised £25-an-hour prisoner escort roles on a zero-hours basis. Mitie, the outsourcing company operating the £400m facility, has submitted a proposal to the Prison Service that is currently under consideration. With about 350 empty cells due to staff shortages, the prison is struggling to meet its contractual obligations.

The Prison Officers' Association (POA) has condemned the move, calling it an attempt to bring casualised labour into the prison system. Mick Pimblett, deputy general secretary of the POA, stated that prison officers are committed professionals working in a highly pressured, often hostile environment, and treating them like zero-hours contractors is disgraceful.

Impact on Prison Safety and Staffing

Zero-hours contracts offer no guaranteed hours, leaving staff with unpredictable schedules and income instability. In a prison environment, this can lead to understaffing and increased risks for both officers and inmates. The government's early prisoner release scheme, aimed at easing overcrowding, has already put additional strain on the system.

Andy Burnham, the prime minister, has faced mounting pressure over the release of offenders, including those convicted of manslaughter. While he has pledged to keep specific killers behind bars, he cannot exempt them without also retaining about 500 other similar offenders. This situation highlights the broader challenges in prison management and workforce stability.

Comparison: Zero-Hours vs. Permanent Contracts

Key Takeaways

• Mitie's zero-hours proposal for HMP Millsike could set a dangerous precedent.
• The POA strongly opposes casualised labour in prisons.
• Staff shortages are already causing empty cells and safety risks.
• Government early release schemes add pressure to an under-resourced system.
• Stable, permanent contracts are essential for prison security.

FAQ

In conclusion, the introduction of zero-hours contracts in private prisons like HMP Millsike poses significant risks to prison safety and worker rights. The government must act to ensure stable employment and secure facilities.