In a controversial move, HMP Millsike, a newly opened private prison near York, is attempting to recruit custody officers under zero-hours contracts, a first for the prison system in England and Wales. As the facility grapples with a significant staffing shortfall—approximately 350 cells remain unoccupied due to a lack of personnel—calls for intervention from officials such as Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham are intensifying.
The Push for Flexible Staffing
The outsourcing firm Mitie, which manages HMP Millsike, has advertised roles for prisoner escort duties at an hourly rate of £25, with the positions described as “flexible” and “task-based.” This approach has raised alarm among prison staff unions, particularly the Prison Officers’ Association (POA), which criticises the shift towards casualised labour within a high-stakes environment.
Mick Pimblett, the deputy general secretary of the POA, expressed grave concerns, stating, “At a time when the government is releasing prisoners due to a chronic lack of cell space, Mitie is unable to meet its contractual obligations because they cannot recruit enough officers to safely staff the jail. Now they are attempting to introduce zero-hours contracts by another name.”
Staffing Crisis at HMP Millsike
Since opening its doors in March 2025, HMP Millsike has faced scrutiny over its operational practices. A recent report highlighted alarming rates of violence within the facility, prompting the Independent Monitoring Boards (IMB) to stress the need for enhanced safety measures among staff, who reported feeling at risk unless accompanied by colleagues. The reality on the ground has raised urgent questions about the prison’s ability to maintain order and security.
The facility currently has more than 1,600 vacancies for prison officers across England and Wales, contrasting with the 22,000 officers in active service. The situation is exacerbated by a concerning turnover rate; in June alone, 256 officers departed, while only 248 new hires were recorded.
The Zero-Hours Debate
Zero-hours contracts have long been a contentious issue in the UK, often viewed as undermining job security and workers’ rights. Defined as agreements where employers do not guarantee a minimum number of working hours, these contracts can leave employees in precarious situations, reliant on the availability of work with no assurance of income.
While Mitie asserts that it does not offer traditional zero-hours contracts, the recruitment strategy through the Sangfroid Group has raised eyebrows. The roles advertised involve critical responsibilities, such as escorting prisoners to various appointments—a task typically reserved for full-time officers. The notion of introducing casualised labour into such a complex and sensitive environment has sparked widespread debate.
Government Response and Future Implications
In light of this unfolding situation, a government spokesperson reiterated the commitment to maintaining a robust workforce within the prison system, stating, “Our dedicated prison officers work around the clock to keep our prisons running and the public safe, and prison officer contracts will always be compliant with employment law.” They also mentioned the government’s initiative to build additional prison capacity to address the ongoing crisis, which has seen just 500 new places added over 14 years.
As the situation evolves, the implications of these staffing strategies at HMP Millsike could have far-reaching effects on the prison system and its ability to manage the challenges of incarceration effectively.
Why it Matters
The move towards flexible staffing arrangements in prisons not only raises questions about the treatment of prison officers but also reflects broader trends in the labour market that prioritise flexibility over job security. As the debate continues, the potential impact on the safety and integrity of the prison system remains a critical concern. The situation at HMP Millsike serves as a microcosm of the challenges faced by the criminal justice system in balancing operational needs with the rights and welfare of its staff.