HMP Millsike, a category C facility located near York and managed by Mitie, is facing scrutiny as it seeks to recruit custody officers under flexible, zero-hours contracts. The controversial move has drawn criticism from the prison officers’ union amid ongoing staff shortages that have left hundreds of cell spaces vacant and raised alarms regarding safety and security.
A New Approach to Staffing
Mitie is advertising for prison custody officer positions at HMP Millsike, offering £25 per hour for roles that involve escorting prisoners to various appointments. This recruitment strategy marks the first time such flexible contracts have been proposed within England and Wales’ prison estate. According to a spokesperson from the Prison Service, Mitie’s request to employ staff on zero-hours contracts is currently under review.
The prison, which opened in March 2025, has been plagued by staffing issues, with reports indicating around 350 empty cells due to an inability to recruit sufficient personnel. The Prison Officers’ Association (POA) has voiced strong opposition to this development, asserting that introducing zero-hours contracts undermines workers’ rights and compromises the integrity of prison operations.
Union Outcry and Government Pressure
Mick Pimblett, the deputy general secretary of the POA, has called upon Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to intervene, citing the government’s commitment to reducing the prevalence of zero-hours contracts. He expressed concern that the introduction of such arrangements at Millsike reflects a broader trend of casualisation in the workforce, particularly in a high-stakes environment like a prison.
Pimblett stated, “At a time when the government is releasing prisoners due to a chronic lack of cell space, Mitie’s inability to fulfil its staffing obligations raises serious questions. Introducing zero-hours contracts under any guise is unacceptable.”
The backdrop to this controversy includes the government’s early prisoner release scheme, which has sparked criticism following revelations that certain convicted criminals would be granted early freedom. While specific offenders may be exempt, the government has been careful to navigate the complex web of legal and ethical implications surrounding incarceration and rehabilitation.
Safety Concerns Amid Staffing Shortfalls
HMP Millsike has not only struggled with recruitment but also faced challenges regarding safety and security within its walls. A recent report highlighted alarming levels of violence, prompting members of the Independent Monitoring Boards (IMB) to express unease about their safety while conducting inspections. This has raised further concerns about the implications of hiring staff on zero-hours contracts, who may lack the necessary commitment and training for such a critical role.
The job advertisements placed by the Sangfroid Group for Mitie indicate the need for former members of the Armed Forces or emergency services, suggesting a preference for candidates with prior experience in high-pressure environments. However, despite these qualifications, the move towards flexible staffing raises questions about the quality of care and oversight that inmates can expect.
Mitie and Government Responses
Mitie, which receives approximately £33 million annually to operate HMP Millsike, has defended its staffing strategy, arguing that it is in line with plans agreed upon with the Ministry of Justice. A spokesperson for Mitie stated, “We remain focused on maintaining a safe, secure and supportive environment for prisoners and colleagues,” while also noting that staffing levels are being adjusted to align with the prison’s phased population growth.
The government has also weighed in, highlighting the challenges they have inherited regarding prison capacity. A spokesperson emphasized that prison officer contracts comply with employment law and reassured the public that efforts are underway to increase prison capacity through the construction of new facilities.
Why it Matters
The situation at HMP Millsike exemplifies a troubling trend in the management of public services, where the push for cost-cutting measures can compromise the safety and dignity of both staff and inmates. The introduction of zero-hours contracts in a sensitive environment like a prison raises significant ethical questions about the treatment of workers and the potential risks posed to the incarcerated population. As discussions surrounding criminal justice reform continue, the implications of such staffing practices could resonate far beyond the walls of Millsike, influencing broader policy decisions across the UK.
