Overview

• Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has confirmed a trial of Tasers in UK prisons and a rapid review of protective body armour for officers.
• The measures follow a petition by former officer Claire Lewis, who was critically injured in a 2010 stabbing at HMP Frankland.
• Recent attacks, including an April 12 assault by terrorist Hashem Abedi that injured four officers, have highlighted the urgent need for better staff protection.
• Ministry of Justice data reveals a record 10,605 assaults on prison staff in 2024, nearly triple the number recorded in 2014.
• Government officials emphasize broader prison reforms aimed at improving safety and reducing reoffending are also underway.