Journalism Behind Bars

What does life really look like behind prison walls? For most people, the answer comes through headlines, political debates, or dramatic portrayals on television. But the reality experienced by more than 80,000 people inside the UK prison system is far more complex, and often hidden from public view.

In the latest episode of All Things Conflict, I speak with Ben Leapman, editor of the UK’s national newspaper for prisoners, Inside Time. A former Fleet Street journalist who also has lived experience of the prison system, Ben offers a unique perspective on the realities of incarceration and the importance of information inside prison. 

A Lifeline for Prisoners
For the more than 80,000 people held in UK prisons, access to reliable information can be limited. Inside Time provides vital updates on prison policy, legal issues, and life beyond the prison gates. For many prisoners, it’s not just a newspaper, it’s a lifeline that helps them stay informed and connected to the outside world.

Life on the Wing
The conversation also explores everyday life inside prison in 2026. One of the paper’s most popular features is the “Wing Worries” agony aunt column, where prisoners write in about personal struggles and challenges. The letters offer a revealing and deeply human glimpse into the realities of prison life.

Justice and Reform
We also discuss wider issues affecting the prison system, including the ongoing battle against book bans and the current sentencing crisis. Ben argues that a system where many prisoners serve only around 33% of their sentence can leave both the public and prisoners dissatisfied with how justice is delivered.

🎧Whether you’re interested in journalism, prison reform, or the human stories behind the justice system, this episode offers a rare window into a world most people never see.