When Sodexo Justice Services began management of Acklington Prison in 2013, the firm promised to save taxpayers' money and many jobs were lost.

The Prison Officers Association warned at the time this could cause escapes and riots.

In response to this incident Mike Quinn, vice chairman of the Northumbria branch of NAPO, made a statement criticising the "violent culture" at the institution which could cause an incident unable to be dealt with due to reduced staffing levels.

[6] A 2017 BBC Panorama investigation found illegal drugs rife and prison staff "not in control".

[7] In April 2024, RAAC was discovered across the site, requiring a number of buildings and House blocks to be closed.