The identification of ‘gangs’ in prison is not always straightforward given the loose nature of some affiliations and the inherent difficulties of defining a ‘gang’ separately from other group affiliations. NOMS is currently undertaking scoping work to provide a strengthened response to gangs.
Historically, gang-related issues have been and continue to be managed within the overall framework to manage prisons and provide a safe and decent environment. In some establishments, where gang-related issues are more problematic, governors have started work with local police forces to share information on gang members and gang affiliations. Studies have also commenced into extremist gang-related activities and HMCIP (along with HM Inspector of Constabulary and HM Inspector of Probation) has commenced a thematic review into juvenile gangs, encompassing juvenile gangs in prison and the wider community.