A Randomised Controlled Trial in Four Prisons: Impact of Incentivised Substance Free Living Wings on Prison Stability Part of the Tackling Drug Misuse in Prisons Evaluation Programme

By Darren Churchward, Peter Smolej, Gurmukh Panesar, Maika Terashima, Jo Voisey, Hala Elsayed, Lucy Cuppleditch 

Substance Misuse in Prisons and Incentivised Substance Free Living Wings Substance misuse in prisons has been a long-standing issue. Traditional approaches to combat substance misuse in prisons have focussed on deterring prisoners and emphasised the use of punitive sanctions. Incentivised Substance Free Living wings (ISFLs) are prison wings where prisoners agree to abide by a set of requirements, including regular drug tests. Incentives (e.g. additional time out of cell, gym equipment, entertainment equipment) are offered for those residing on the wing. ISFLs aim to create a stable prison environment, which allows for the development of a supportive community in which prisoners live drug-free, and can better engage with treatment programmes and recovery. This study does not represent all ISFLs, but only those considered operationally effective. It focuses on safety and stability outcomes, not substance misuse, as these were viewed as essential foundations for ISFL success.

London: Ministry of Justice, 2025. 53p.