An independent report into life at a youth offenders institute has concluded that while improvements have been made, it still has "several areas of concern."

The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) criticised Glen Parva Young Offenders Institute, in Glen Parva, Leicester, over the education it provides, living conditions and the number of young men with mental illness placed in custody.

Following the report, based on findings between December 2007 and November 2008, the IMB issued the centre with a number of challenges to meet.

It called for a scheme to identify those inmates with the most serious mental health issues so they could be helped.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Justice said a review into offenders with mental health issues was due to be published. The report also questioned what plans were in place for refurbishing five residential units, two of which were described as unfit for use and three which were said to be "well below the normal standard", after plans to extend the prison were delayed.

The Learning and Skills Council, which runs courses for young offenders, said it was examining issues that were raised over falling numbers of inmates attending classes.

Inspectors also said showers and changing rooms in the sports complex needed to be improved and foreign nationals needed better information about access to health care.

However, staff at Glen Parva were praised for their commitment to procedures for new prisoners which were described as "of a very high standard".