# UK may upgrade Category C and women's prisons to ease overcrowding

The UK government is considering upgrading Category C and women's prisons to expand capacity and relieve severe overcrowding. The proposal would involve reclassifying or refurbishing existing facilities to hold more inmates. This move addresses the ongoing prison capacity crisis and its impact on the justice system.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/13/category-c-and-womens-prisons-could-be-upgraded) — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 05:00:50 GMT