INMATES are not being treated humanely because they are in a “filthy” prison, a report has found.

Inspectors from the Independent Monitoring Board say those in Lewes Prison are living in poor conditions and go without basics such as shoes and blankets.

They found that from March last year to January, there were more lockdowns and restrictions while accommodation went unclean.

The board “observed dirty wings, mouldy showers and filthy toilets,” which was “ingrained dirt” which is “uncleanable with the available products”.

At times some of the 551 criminals locked up there had gone without the basic minimum of shoes, furniture, blankets and crockery.

The report highlighted concerns over bullying, with prisoners in fear of returning to their cells.

It states: “The board sees many examples of staff treating prisoners with humanity, kindness and great patience.

“However, it considers that the accommodation provided at HMP Lewes often fails to be decent and that there are major failings in the regime offered and frequent lockdowns.

“The board does not consider this to be humane treatment.”

It was found that prisoners who do not complete education are likely to be locked up in cells for more than 22 hours each day.

The situation since January may have worsened with the coronavirus outbreak.

Restrictions have become more severe, with prisoners at jails throughout the country often locked up for 23 hours each day.

Inspectors urged action from the Government to look at prisoners’ mental health and healthcare needs.

They also want the Prisons Service to look at helping inmates protect their property behind bars as this can be “distressing” for those inside.

The Prisons Service should also continue to look at safety at HMP Lewes and work out ways to cut the drugs supply into prison, with nearly 1,400 “finds” of illicit items in one year.

Finally the board wanted the governor to “redouble efforts to improve accommodation” for prisoners.

The report did find a drop in violent incidents and also in self-harm among prisoners.

But the board said it remains concerned for the safety of those kept inside.