Prison violence harming rehabilitation - families
BBCCriminals at a prison where some cells have been locked down during the day due to serious violence could pose an even higher risk to the public when released, their families have warned.
Staff and inmates at HMP Swinfen Hall, in Lichfield, have been hurt in attacks, including a prison officer who was stabbed in the head.
The BBC has spoken to families who fear the disorder means their loved ones are not being rehabilitated and could come out more dangerous than they went in.
The Ministry of Justice said it did not recognise claims made by relatives, but was working to protect staff and improve prisoner access to education.
About 600 men aged between 18 to 28 are housed in the jail, including 130 serving life sentences.
The prison is designed to help inmates get training, with bosses promising a "safe, decent and respectful environment for personal growth".
But six families have told the BBC they are worried about violence, drug use, prison officer behaviour, mental health and access to education.
Three mothers agreed to speak on camera but asked to remain anonymous. They believe their sons could be targeted by fellow inmates or staff at the prison for speaking out.
They each insisted it was right their children were being punished for serious offences, but said change was needed to stop them coming out and potentially reoffending.
One mother said she used to be "judgemental" and shared online stories about sex offenders before her own son became one.
He is currently serving an eight-year sentence for offences including rape, which he committed when he was 17.
The woman doesn't expect any sympathy, but warns any young person can take a wrong turn.
"My son deserves to be where he is, no doubt," she said.
"But what is the point in locking him up if he's not going to come out a better man":[]}