Book a visit Thameside Prison

What to Bring With You:

Visitors are required to bring a valid photo ID like a passport or a driving license. It is recommended to carry only essential items in a small, transparent bag as larger bags or unnecessary belongings are generally not allowed inside the prison.

Parking Facilities:

Yes, Thameside Prison does provide parking facilities for its visitors. To avoid inconvenience, visitors are suggested to arrive early to secure a parking spot. For information on parking regulations and possible charges, please refer to the prison’s official website or contact the prison administration directly.

Visitor Guide: Thameside Prison

Security and Identification Requirements:

Every visitor, irrespective of their visitation history, is required to present a photographic ID and proof of their current address on every visit to validate their identity. The address must align with the one provided by the prisoner during the visit booking. Failing to provide this information, or any discrepancies in the addresses, will result in a denial of entry.

Acceptable Forms of Identification:

• Passport (up to one year out of date acceptable)
• Valid Photo Driving Licence
• Senior Citizens public transport pass (Freedom pass)
• Annual public transport season ticket (in date)
• Employer’s ID Card
• European ID card
• Student ID Card (in date)

Proof of Address:

• Recent Bill/bank statement (dated within 3 months)
• Old style driving licence (paper copy)

For Children Under 18:

• Birth Certificate
• Passport
• Valid Photo Driving Licence
• Young person’s proof of age card (Zip Oyster cards accepted)
• Babies Red book (valid for children under 5 years old)

Visitor Eligibility:

Can Children Visit?

Yes, children under 18 are allowed but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, with appropriate paperwork to prove guardianship and the child’s birth certificate as proof of identity. Children must be supervised by the visitor at all times.

Can Ex-prisoners Visit?

Ex-prisoners may visit, subjected to a security clearance processed during their registration.

Can Offenders with a Tagging Licence Visit?

Offenders with tagging licences need to seek permission in writing from the Director to visit. The offender must present the licence upon arrival, and it will be evaluated to ensure no breach of conditions occurs.

Search Procedure:

All visitors must consent to be searched. Trained staff will conduct metal detector scans or rub down searches with consent. Visitors will proceed to the Waiting Area post-search.

Appropriate Clothing:

All visitors must adhere to the dress code. Inappropriate attire will result in refusal of entry. Restrictions are subject to periodic reviews.

Monetary Transactions and Property Allowance:

Visitors cannot directly give money to prisoners but can send money to a prisoner’s account securely at Send Prisoner Money. Information required for transactions cannot be provided by HMP Thameside staff.

Property hand-ins are:

• Monday-Friday: 13:00-14:30, with a booked visit.
• Saturday: 10:00-11:00, exceptional circumstances with a booked visit.
• Sunday: Closed.

Property Allowance Includes:

• Clothing (Specific restrictions apply)
• Reading glasses/Case
• Books (limited to 10 at a time)
• 1 Suit for Court

Conclusion:

Visiting Thameside Prison requires adherence to specified protocols, including providing proper identification, wearing appropriate clothing, and following property allowances. These measures are crucial to maintain the safety and order within the prison and to facilitate smooth and enjoyable visits for both inmates and visitors.