A BROMSGROVE prison has been slammed as "inhumane" and not fit for the 21st Century.

In a report by the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB), HMP Hewell is accused of having a growing drugs problem and told it was not providing a service fit for the 21st Century for inmates or staff.

The annual report says the prison provides a poor environment for prisoners and is yet to overcome the widespread use of illicit drugs and mobile phones.

The IMB, which comprises volunteers appointed by Minister David Gauke to check that prisoners are being treated decently and humanely, said that despite some improvements and a determination to move the prison forward, it still has some way to go to create a service fit for the 21st century.

IMB Hewell Chair Rodger Lawrence said: "Improvements in staff numbers are welcome though the proportion of inexperienced staff presents a challenge in dealing with a complex prison population despite the largely dedicated attitude of the staff.

"The transient nature of much of the population at HMP Hewell presents barriers to meaningful rehabilitation.

He added: "We welcome the start – albeit slow - of a refurbishment programme but we remain concerned at the poor and sometimes inhumane accommodation within parts of the establishment."

The category B jail opened in 2008 and holds more than 1,200 inmates.

The board felt Hewell Grange, a Category D open prison on the same site, provided a positive regime for prisoners although shabby buildings and failing toilets were matters of concern.

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “We are investing £70 million across the prison estate to improve safety, decency and security.

“At HMP Hewell we are renovating existing facilities as well as upgrading security netting, cell windows, toilet and showering facilities – while working to identify more ways to improve the prison environment.”

The full report is published on imb.org.uk/reports.