Can a Prisoner Attend a Funeral in the UK?
It’s one of the hardest things that can happen while inside—getting that call, or a note from staff, telling you someone you love has passed. When you're locked up, grief feels even more distant. But can prisoners actually go to a funeral? The answer is: sometimes. But it’s not straightforward, and it’s definitely not guaranteed.
Yes, But Only with Permission
Under UK prison rules, prisoners can request to attend a funeral, but it has to be approved. The process is called a temporary release on compassionate grounds. And it comes with a lot of conditions.
Staff will look at things like your offence, your behaviour record, how long you’ve got left, and whether you're considered a risk. It’s not as simple as just asking. The decision goes through prison management, sometimes even higher up if it’s a serious case.
Who Can They Attend Funerals For?
Typically, only immediate family counts—so a parent, child, sibling, or partner. Some prisons might allow for grandparents or other relatives if there’s a strong emotional tie, but the closer the relationship, the more likely it is to be approved.
Escorted or Unescorted?
Most of the time, prisoners who get permission will be escorted by prison officers. That means they’re in handcuffs, accompanied by at least two staff members, and usually wearing approved clothes—not prison uniform, but nothing flashy either.
Unescorted leave—where the person goes alone—is extremely rare and usually only considered for Category D (open prison) inmates with a clean record and very little time left. Even then, it’s never a promise.
What Happens on the Day?
The visit is strictly timed. It might only be for the service—not the burial or wake. Officers stay nearby, and sometimes it’s not even at the main funeral—just a private viewing at the chapel of rest. It depends on risk assessments, staffing levels, and how things are running that day.
Emotions can run high. It’s a hard day for anyone, but when you’re cuffed and flanked by guards, it feels heavier. Still, for some, just being there—seeing a loved one off—is worth the weight of it all.
What If They're Not Allowed to Go?
Sadly, not everyone gets permission. If the risk is seen as too high, or staff levels can’t be arranged, the answer might be no. In those cases, prisoners are usually offered a chance to write a letter, receive a photo of the service setup, or have a private moment of silence in the chapel or cell.
It’s not the same. But for many, it’s better than nothing.
Final Thoughts
Yes, prisoners can attend funerals—but only under strict conditions. It’s not a right. It’s a request. And the outcome depends on a lot of things outside the inmate’s control.
If you're on the outside and wondering what to expect, or trying to help someone apply for compassionate leave, speak to the prison’s Family Liaison Officer or ask them to submit an application through their personal officer. The sooner, the better.
