Book a Visit to Huntercombe Prison

Booking a visit to Huntercombe Prison is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning to ensure all necessary steps are followed. This guide will help you understand the process and prepare for your visit effectively.

How to Book a Visit to Huntercombe Prison

To book a visit to Huntercombe Prison, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Gather Required Information: You will need the prisoner’s name, date of birth, and prisoner number. Make sure all visitors’ details are also ready.
  2. Choose Your Booking Method: Visits can be booked online via the official government website or by phone. The phone line for booking visits is 01491 643151, available from 9:00-11:30, 14:00-16:00, and 18:00-20:00 on weekdays.
  3. Select Visit Times: Visits are available on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 13:45 to 16:15. You can choose up to three potential dates and times for your visit.
  4. Confirmation: Once your visit is booked, you will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive confirmation within 1-3 working days, follow up by email or phone.

Visitor Centre and Facilities

Huntercombe Prison has a dedicated visitor centre where you can wait before entering the main visiting hall. This area provides hot and cold drinks, snacks, and is equipped with a baby changing facility. All areas are wheelchair accessible to ensure comfort for all visitors.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Upon arrival, you will need to check in at the visitor centre. Make sure to bring a valid photo ID and proof of address. Items such as mobile phones, cigarettes, and food are not allowed inside the prison and can be left in provided lockers. You will be searched before entry to ensure the safety and security of the prison environment.

Visiting Rules and Regulations

Visitors must adhere to strict rules to ensure the safety and order of the prison. These include:

  • Following the instructions given by prison staff.
  • Not bringing prohibited items into the prison.
  • Keeping personal conduct respectful and compliant with prison regulations.

Breaking these rules can result in the termination of the visit and a potential ban on future visits.

Getting to Huntercombe Prison

Huntercombe Prison is located in Nuffield, near Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. If traveling by car from the M40, exit at Junction 7 and follow the A329 and A4074. If coming from the M4, exit at Junction 8/9 onto the A404 towards Henley-on-Thames. For those using public transport, the nearest railway station is Henley-on-Thames, and a bus service (X39) runs from Henley to the prison.

Support and Assistance for Visitors

The Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT) offers support for families and friends of prisoners, providing practical advice and emotional support. Family Days are held on the last Wednesday of each month, offering a more extended visiting period with activities designed to strengthen family bonds.

FAQs

  1. How can I book a visit to Huntercombe Prison?

    • Visits can be booked online or by phone at 01491 643151.
  2. What are the visiting hours for Huntercombe Prison?

    • Visiting hours are 13:45 to 16:15 on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
  3. What items are prohibited during a visit to Huntercombe Prison?

    • Prohibited items include mobile phones, cigarettes, and food, which can be stored in lockers provided at the visitor centre.
  4. Can I send money or gifts to a prisoner at Huntercombe?

    • Yes, money can be sent via an online service, and gifts such as books can be sent from approved retailers.
  5. Is the visitor centre at Huntercombe Prison wheelchair accessible?

    • Yes, the visitor centre and all areas within the visiting hall are wheelchair accessible.
  6. What should I bring to my visit to Huntercombe Prison?

    • Bring a valid photo ID and proof of address for the check-in process.
  7. How do I get to Huntercombe Prison by public transport?

    • The nearest railway station is Henley-on-Thames, with a bus service (X39) running to the prison.
  8. What should I do if I do not receive a confirmation for my visit booking?

    • If you do not receive a confirmation email within 1-3 working days, follow up via the provided email or phone number.
  9. Are there any special visiting days at Huntercombe Prison?

    • Yes, Family Days are held on the last Wednesday of each month for extended visits and activities.
  10. What support is available for families of prisoners at Huntercombe?

    • PACT offers practical and emotional support, and the prison hosts Family Days to help maintain family connections.

Summary and Conclusion

Booking a visit to Huntercombe Prison involves understanding the procedures and adhering to the rules set by the prison. By following the guidelines provided, you can ensure a smooth and meaningful visit with your loved one. For more information, visit the GOV.UK prison visits page.

External Link for More Information

For further details on booking visits and other related information, visit GOV.UK – Huntercombe Prison.

Sources Used

Visit our other pages such as Hull prison.