Ministry of Justice Statistics Reveal Rise in Self-inflicted Prison Deaths in Latest Quarter

The latest Safety in Custody Statistics published by the Ministry of Justice shows there were 66 self-inflicted deaths in prisons in England and Wales in the 12 months to September 2026.

While there has been a decrease in the overall number of deaths in prison over the last 12 months, the latest quarterly figures are concerning. There were 23 self-inflicted deaths between July and September 2026, up from 17 in the previous quarter.

In total, 360 people died in prison custody in the 12 months to September 2026.

The figures also demonstrate the continuing prevalence of self-harm within prisons. There were 68,231 incidents of self-harm in the 12 months to June 2026, involving 12,973 individuals.

The Importance of Inquests Following a Death in Prison

At Farleys, our specialist inquests team regularly represents bereaved families following deaths in prison, including self-inflicted deaths, deaths involving restraint and drug-related deaths.

An inquest provides an important opportunity to examine the circumstances surrounding a death and the care a person received while in custody. This can include consideration of how their risk of suicide and self-harm was assessed and managed, the adequacy of observations and support, whether important information was communicated between prison and healthcare staff, and whether appropriate policies and procedures were followed.

Our experience demonstrates why this scrutiny can be so important.

Farleys represented the family of AT, who died at HMP Garth. The jury concluded that his death was contributed to by multiple failures across the prison regime, including inadequate preventative steps and assessments, failures to adhere to policies and procedures, and shortcomings in documentation.

We also represented the family of JM, who died at HMP Risley. His inquest identified concerns regarding mental health intervention, communication between prison and healthcare staff, and the operation of the ACCT process used to support prisoners at risk of suicide or self-harm. The jury found that failures concerning handover procedures and observations contributed more than minimally to his death.

Inquests play an important role in ensuring the circumstances of deaths in prisons are properly investigated and, where failings are identified, considering whether lessons can be learned to reduce the risk of future deaths.

How Farleys Can Help

Farleys’ specialist inquest solicitors have extensive experience representing families following deaths in prison custody.

We can advise families throughout the inquest process, assist in obtaining and considering evidence, and ensure their questions and concerns are properly explored. Legal aid funding may be available for families following a death in prison without the usual financial eligibility criteria applying.

If you have lost a loved one in prison custody and require specialist advice about the inquest process, please contact Farleys on 01254 606 008

You can also read about our previous work on our Inquests Case Studies page.