Research and analysis
Tackling drug misuse in prisons: a qualitative study of the implementation of drug testing in 6 prisons
This research aimed to examine how drug testing regimens were implemented in adult male prisons in England.
Applies to England
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Details
RAND Europe was commissioned by the Ministry of Justice to conduct a study that aimed to understand how drug testing regimens were conducted, the specific operational barriers to implementation of the policy, and the perceived utility and impact of sanctions and support on deterrence. The study took place in 6 prisons of varying compliance to random mandatory drug testing targets: non-compliant, mixed compliance and compliant. Qualitative data was gathered using observations, interviews and focus groups with 36 staff and 59 prisoners.
Updates to this page
Published 11 December 2025