Violence at Kirklevington Grange, a category D prison in North Yorkshire, has significantly decreased following the introduction of karate training for staff. The facility established a self-defence gym, or dojo, where warders learned karate techniques aimed at improving safety and conflict management.

According to data from the prison, incidents of prisoner-on-prisoner assaults dropped markedly from four recorded in the 2024/25 period to just one in the most recent year. This decline in violence coincides with a report from the Independent Monitoring Board, which indicated that 84 percent of inmates expressed feeling safe from harm, bullying, or threats by their peers.

The board’s report commended the prison not only for the reduction in violence but also for its diverse range of activities provided to inmates. These include access to fidget spinners, acupuncture sessions, carpet bowls, yoga classes, and basketball matches, all of which are designed to support inmate well-being and promote a positive environment.

The introduction of karate training for staff reflects a broader focus on proactive strategies to reduce conflict within the prison. By equipping warders with self-defence skills, Kirklevington Grange aims to manage tensions more effectively and foster a safer atmosphere for both inmates and staff.