**Concerns Grow Over Prison Safety After Brutal Attack at HMP Parc**
A serious incident at HMP Parc in Bridgend has raised concerns over inmate safety, as it has emerged that a prisoner was attacked in his cell by another inmate allegedly using makeshift weapons crafted from a tin can. The victim’s mother has spoken out about the violent assault, revealing deep anxieties for her son’s well-being within the troubled prison’s walls.
According to the mother, her 37-year-old son was ambushed on the morning of 26 July, shortly after returning from chapel. The attacker, believed to have been under the influence of the synthetic drug known as spice, reportedly fashioned shards from a tuna tin, striking the victim multiple times. Injuries were sustained to the back of the head, chest, bicep, and lip. As a result of the head wound, the victim was unable to receive effective medical treatment within the prison and had to be taken to hospital the following day. Medical staff warned that, had the injury been inflicted slightly differently, the attack could easily have proven fatal.
The mother attributes the attack in part to longstanding issues at HMP Parc, which is operated by private security firm G4S. She described the perpetrator as a well-known troubled individual with mental health struggles and alleged a widespread availability of spice within the facility. This dangerous synthetic cannabinoid is notorious for its unpredictable effects and has been implicated in several tragic deaths within the UK’s prison system.
G4S confirmed that a prisoner was transported to hospital for what they described as a “minor injury,” returning later the same day. South Wales Police, however, stated that the incident had not been reported to them. When approached for clarification, G4S did not provide additional details regarding the lack of police involvement.
Recent reports have brought substantial criticism to HMP Parc, particularly in relation to escalating drug use and security lapses that have contributed to a wave of inmate fatalities. An inspection published in April highlighted an “alarming” level of drug penetration into the prison, citing deficiencies including easily opened cell windows and the use of drones to smuggle contraband. In 2024 alone, there were 17 inmate deaths at Parc—more than any other penal institution in the UK. Of these, five were attributed to drug use, with others linked to self-harm and natural causes.
The mother of the injured man painted a stark picture of daily life inside HMP Parc, alleging that both prisoners and, at times, staff are involved with drugs. She recounted how violence stemming from drugs and mental health crises is exacerbated by severe staff shortages. “Many officers don’t want to remain and choose to leave, resulting in chronic understaffing,” she explained. “When there aren’t enough officers to safely manage the prison, inmates are confined to their cells for entire days, which only fuels resentment and volatile behaviour.”
In response to widespread criticism and the string of tragedies, G4S has acknowledged that the beginning of 2024 was “extremely difficult” and expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. The company claims to have since implemented significant changes to improve conditions. In a statement, G4S expressed encouragement that inspectors have acknowledged “solid progress” in tackling key issues, including the rates of violence and self-harm, and promised ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and support of inmates.
Nevertheless, for families of those incarcerated at HMP Parc, reassurance is in short supply. The mother of the recent attack’s victim recounted that her son has witnessed multiple suicides and is acutely aware of the dangers posed not only by fellow prisoners but also by the toxic environment fostered by rampant drug abuse and understaffing. “It’s become much more apparent how dangerous the prison is,” she remarked sombrely.
Such incidents serve to highlight the broader challenges facing privately-run prisons across the country, as debates over security, staffing levels, and rehabilitation continue. The situation at Parc is causing many to question whether enough is being done to protect those in custody.
Both the local community and campaigners for prison reform will be watching closely to see if recent promises made by G4S and the prison’s leadership lead to meaningful improvements—or if stories such as this will become yet more frequent in Britain’s penal system.