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Moo-ving through the day: Behind the scenes with Insights25 at HMP Prescoed’s Dairy Farm

Published:
Photo of two cows from the Prescoed Insights25 event

Jess McJones Planning & Prioritisation Lead in HMPPS Behaviour Intervention & Practical Support (BIPS) Team, reflects on her behind the scenes Insights25 experience.

Headshot of Jess McJones

Jess McJones

Head of Performance and Business, Security Directorate,

HMPPS

Prisoners and cows aren’t an obvious mix. But at HMP Prescoed, they work side by side. The dairy farm gives prisoners real skills, real purpose, and real connection with the animals. It also produces milk for the prison and Tesco. I learned all this—and much more – during my visit for the 2025 HMPPS Insights Festival. 

Photo of a cow being fed at the Prescoed Insights25 event
Closeup of a cow at the Prescoed Insights25 event

Why did I attend? 

I signed up because I love animals. I also wanted to see how working with them helps prisoners learn and grow. I was curious about how cows could help reduce reoffending. And yes—I wanted to meet some cows. 

What did I get from it? 

I spent the day seeing how the farm works. I got stuck in with the tasks the men do every day. One highlight was feeding and weighing the calves. The men use these moments to build maths and computer skills as they record weights and track progress. 

I saw how the farm gives them structure and purpose. They learn new skills. They practice old ones. They spend meaningful time with the animals. They build a strong work ethic. This job isn’t just busy work—it prepares them for life after release. 

What surprised me most was the innovation. The farm embraces new tech. It trials fresh ideas for sustainability. Two new milking robots let cows choose when to be milked. Health improves. Yields rise. The cows seem happier. The farm manager also shared plans to use slurry to generate power. Sustainability meets creativity. 

Put your best hoof forward and get involved in HMPP Insights  

Insights 2025 gave me a rare chance to see the impact of this work at HMP Prescoed. I met the men – and the cows who make the farm thrive. If you want to understand more about different parts of our service, get involved in HMPPS Insights events whenever you can. The learning is invaluable. The experience stays with you. 

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