In December 2022, 52-year-old inmate Shafaq Khan was found unresponsive at HMP Hindley, located in the village of Bickershaw near Wigan. Serving an eight-year sentence for manslaughter, Khan died ten weeks later after being hospitalized. A recent watchdog report highlights concerns over the healthcare provided and the reactions of prison staff to inmate health warnings.

The events leading to Khan's imprisonment involved a tragic incident where fumes from a petrol generator installed in a convenience store led to the death of tenant Jao Afonso from carbon monoxide poisoning, in Middleton, Greater Manchester.

Khan and store landlord Mushtaq Ahmed, who ignored generator safety guidelines, were held responsible. Khan was transferred to HMP Hindley where he later faced numerous health issues. Concerns were reportedly dismissed by staff, leading to internal and police investigations which ultimately found insufficient evidence for criminal charges.

The Ombudsman's report criticized the inadequate healthcare coordination for Khan, identifying missed opportunities for better medical oversight. Recommendations were made to improve healthcare communication and assessment standards in prison settings.