Mental health and wellbeing of prison educators working in the UK

This report, commissioned by the Universities and Colleges Union (UCU), highlights the vital role of prison educators while exposing the intense pressure, unsafe conditions and lack of support they face, and calls for urgent systemic change.

Research / 2 mins read

About the report

Education Support was delighted to be asked by the Universities and Colleges Union (UCU) to undertake this research into the wellbeing of prison educators. The report findings are based on an online survey of 128 prison educators in the UK and four focus groups with 30 educators.

Education in prisons can change lives. It can build skills, restore confidence and support rehabilitation. For many learners, it offers hope and the possibility of a different future.

This report reveals the serious toll this work can take on the people delivering it. Prison educators are working in some of the most challenging environments in education, often against a backdrop of overcrowding, staff shortages, deteriorating infrastructure, violence and drug use. They are expected to provide high-quality learning for people with complex needs, often without the stability and support they need themselves.

89%

of prison educators report feeling stressed

61%

says that the culture of their organisation/prison negatively affects their mental health and wellbeing

The findings

The findings are deeply concerning. Almost half of prison educators in this study were at risk of probable clinical depression. Nearly nine in ten reported high stress, and more than a third had taken time off in the past three years because of work-related mental health issues. The report also highlights the damaging impact of racism, particularly for educators from Black and other racialised backgrounds.

This report is a wake-up call. If we want prison education to deliver on its promise of rehabilitation, we must create a system where educators are valued, supported, and able to thrive.
Sinéad Mc Brearty, CEO Education Support

This cannot be ignored. If we want prison education to deliver on its promise, the people teaching in prisons must be valued, protected and properly supported. That means more than token gestures. It means safer working environments, structured emotional support, opportunities for reflection and development, and action on the systemic issues that drive stress, including poor communication, job insecurity and limited progression.

This report amplifies the voices of prison educators and calls on government, providers, unions and the wider sector to listen and act.

Download the full report below.