Prisoners may be able to claim compensation if they fall out of bunk beds

Prison inmates can seek compensation if they are injured when they fall out of their bunk beds, a report warns.

Lags claim rickety and aging bunks have resulted in them needing medical attention.

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The problem at HMP Exeter dates back to 2017, when inmates frequently reported injuries to the prison’s doctors.

The B-category Victorian prison houses 406 inmates with around 300 shared cells.

But a renovation, including replacing the bunk beds, has been delayed.

A prison source said: “It’s a serious issue as it’s a 5ft fall from the top bunk.

“Inmates have really been hurt and have been complaining for years.

“The boys are fed up and the authorities fear lawsuits for damages.”

A report by the independent monitoring body said: “There is a risk of litigation and reparations.

“We hope that renovations that are taking place and are planned will address the issue as a matter of priority.”