Garth Prison accepts category B prisoners serving sentences of four years or more.. Chief inspector of prisons, Peter Clarke reported that Garth prison has declined severely during the three years up to 2017. Garth holds 800 male prisoners mostly convicted of serious violent or sexual offences. Garth prison was found to be extremely violent, inspectors said it was the most violent prison they had come across and two-thirds of inmates told inspectors they felt unsafe. There is a big problem with illegal drugs and illegally brewed alcohol, 'hooch'. Many violent incidents are related to drugs, debt and gangs. Many prisoners refuse to leave their cells due to a tense, occasionally threatening atmosphere in the wings. Roughly 85 prisoners additionally to sex offenders are held separately due to fears over their safety. Peter Clarke said, "The prison was one of the most unsafe we have been to in recent times. Violence and drugs dominated the prisoner experience. A new governor and deputy governor were appointed immediately." Conditions at Garth are not exceptional and other prisons are also problematic, a delegation from the European committee for the prevention of torture reported.[5]
Garth provides a range of training, learning and employment opportunities. Programmes on offer include woodwork, motor mechanics, industrial cleaning and light engineering. The prison also offers NVQs in horticulture and textiles, as well as electrical, mechanical and community workshops. A number of basic skills courses are also offered including literacy, numeracy and ESOL. The prison's gym also offers physical education including a YMCA Gym Instructor qualification, as well as recreational gym.