Welsh-Speaking Prisoners Report Language Suppression at HMP Berwyn

A report by researchers from Cardiff and Liverpool universities has revealed widespread neglect and hostility towards Welsh-speaking inmates at HMP Berwyn, the largest prison in Wales. Former prisoners reported being punished or threatened for speaking Welsh, including an incident where an inmate was told to stop speaking Welsh during a private meeting with his solicitor. The researchers found that Welsh language services were lacking, with delays in Welsh correspondence and no efforts to group Welsh speakers together. The Welsh Language Commissioner expressed concern that basic rights of Welsh speakers are not sufficiently respected, while the prison service stated it supports Welsh language use but restricts it at times for security reasons. The Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee has called the allegations troubling and is working with prison authorities and inspectors to ensure better inclusivity for Welsh-speaking prisoners. This issue highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring language equality and rights within the Welsh prison system.