Life in open conditions: mental health at HMP Leyhill

Healthwatch Bristol, Healthwatch North Somerset and Healthwatch South Gloucestershire interviewed 33 prisoners at HMP Leyhill to understand their experience of accessing mental health support.

Overall, many people described improvements in their mental health during their time at HMP Leyhill, often linked to the stability of open conditions, opportunities for work and useful activity, and access to supportive healthcare and therapeutic services that they often felt exceeded what is available in the community. 

Positive experiences were frequently associated with feeling trusted, listened to, and able to prepare gradually for release. Staff also described a strong commitment to supporting wellbeing within the constraints of an open prison environment. 

However, experiences were not consistent for everyone. Some people reported delays in accessing appointments or medication, uncertainty around release planning, and anxiety linked to the possibility of being returned to closed conditions. 

Concerns were also raised about accommodation on release and variation in staff awareness of mental health and neurodiversity, which some staff attributed to training not being prioritised. These challenges could affect confidence, engagement with support, and overall wellbeing as people approached transition back into the community. 

Taken together, the findings suggest that HMP Leyhill provides important opportunities for recovery, stability, and preparation for release, while also highlighting areas where improved communication, continuity of care, inclusive practice, and coordinated resettlement support could strengthen outcomes for people with mental health needs.