Amidst a growing staffing crisis in the UK prison system, HMP Millsike, a private facility near York, is drawing criticism for its decision to recruit custody officers on what are effectively zero-hours contracts. This controversial move comes as the prison, operated by the outsourcing company Mitie, struggles with a shortfall in personnel and a significant number of vacant cells.
Staffing Shortages at HMP Millsike
HMP Millsike, a modern category C prison that accommodates up to 1,500 inmates, is currently facing a staffing crisis with around 350 cells standing empty due to a shortage of officers. Mitie has advertised roles for prisoner escort positions at £25 per hour, promoting them as “flexible” and “task-based.” This approach has raised alarms among prison officers’ unions, particularly the Prison Officers’ Association (POA), which argues that the introduction of such contracts undermines the stability and rights of workers in a highly demanding environment.
The POA’s deputy general secretary, Mick Pimblett, expressed deep concern, stating, “At a time when the government is releasing prisoners due to a chronic lack of cell space, Mitie is unable to fulfil its contractual obligations because they cannot recruit enough officers. Now they are trying to introduce zero-hours contracts by another name.”
A Troubling Precedent
The adverts for the new roles, placed by the Sangfroid Group on behalf of Mitie, are notable for their focus on attracting former members of the UK Armed Forces, Blue Light Services, or previous prison staff. The roles involve escorting inmates to various appointments, a task traditionally reserved for full-time officers. The initiative has sparked a heated debate about the implications of employing flexible workers in a setting that demands a high level of professionalism and stability.
While Mitie has claimed that these roles do not constitute zero-hours contracts, the nuances of employment terms have raised questions. According to Acas, zero-hours contracts are defined as arrangements where employers do not guarantee minimum working hours, and employees are not obliged to accept work when offered. Critics argue that hiring practices at HMP Millsike hint at a troubling trend towards casualisation in the workforce.
Government Response and Broader Implications
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has come under increasing pressure to intervene in this situation, especially in light of the government’s recent decisions regarding early prisoner releases. The controversy surrounding HMP Millsike has been exacerbated by the government’s ongoing struggle to manage prison capacity, with recent reports indicating that there were over 1,600 unfilled officer positions across England and Wales as of June.
In response to inquiries, a government spokesperson defended the hard work of prison officers, emphasising that contracts must comply with employment law. However, the reality remains that many officers are leaving the profession faster than they can be replaced, creating a cycle of instability that endangers both staff and inmates.
The Role of Mitie in Prison Management
Mitie’s management of HMP Millsike has been under scrutiny since its inception. Since opening in March 2025, the facility has faced numerous challenges, including reports of inadequate security and staffing issues. In January, an Independent Monitoring Board report cited concerns over inconsistent gate security, leading to the replacement of the prison director just a month later.
Mitie is contracted to run the prison for approximately £33 million annually but is now contending with widespread criticism regarding its ability to fulfil its obligations. The company’s approach to staffing, particularly its reliance on contingent workers, has raised alarms about the potential erosion of professional standards within the prison system.
Why it Matters
The situation at HMP Millsike serves as a critical reflection of the broader issues facing the UK prison system, particularly regarding staffing, worker rights, and the potential for casualisation in a field that demands commitment and professionalism. As the government grapples with a prison capacity crisis, the implications of employing zero-hours contracts could undermine the integrity of the correctional system itself, jeopardising both the safety of staff and the welfare of inmates. In an era where the treatment of workers is under increasing scrutiny, the unfolding events at Millsike could set a concerning precedent for labour practices across the sector.
