How Do I Prepare Myself for Jail in the UK?
Last reviewed: June 2026
If you or someone close to you is facing a custodial sentence, the uncertainty can be overwhelming. The good news is that preparation genuinely helps. Our founder Daniel Hockey went through this himself before serving his sentence — from HMP Wandsworth to open conditions at HMP Ford — and writes about it in The Secret Prisoner. You can read more on the about Daniel Hockey page. This guide sets out the practical steps to take.
Sort out your home and money
Decide what happens to your home while you are away. If you rent, speak to your landlord or the council; if you have a mortgage, contact your lender early. Set up or cancel direct debits as needed, and consider giving a trusted person power of attorney or written authority to manage bills and post. Tell your bank, and check what benefits you or your family may be entitled to. Dealing with these things in advance prevents debts and problems building up while you cannot act.
Look after the people and animals who depend on you
Arranging care for children is often the hardest and most urgent task. Agree who will look after them, sort out school and any contact arrangements, and get legal advice if care arrangements are contested. Make plans for elderly relatives you care for and for pets — a friend, family member or a charity may be able to help.
A practical preparation checklist
| Area | What to do before you go in |
|---|---|
| Money | Tell your bank, manage direct debits, arrange someone to handle bills and benefits |
| Home | Speak to landlord, council or mortgage lender; secure your belongings |
| Work | Decide what to tell your employer; understand your rights |
| Family | Arrange childcare, care for dependants and pets |
| Documents | Gather ID, medical and legal papers; note key phone numbers and addresses |
| Health | List medications and conditions so prison healthcare can continue your care |
Prepare what you need to know
Write down phone numbers and addresses of the people you will want to contact — you will not have your mobile inside, and committing a few key numbers to memory or to paper is invaluable. Understand how you will receive visits and stay in touch, and reassure family about how the system works. Knowing what the first night and daily life are like takes away much of the fear of the unknown.
Look after your mental health
Anxiety, poor sleep and low mood are completely normal in the run-up to a sentence. Talk to people you trust, see your GP if you are struggling, and know that prisons have healthcare and mental-health support. If you ever feel unable to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans (116 123) at any time, and the Listeners scheme inside prisons offers confidential support from trained fellow prisoners.
- Leaving money and bills unmanaged. Unpaid direct debits and rent can spiral while you are inside.
- Not arranging proper care for children. Sort this early and get legal advice if needed.
- Relying on your phone for contact details. You will not have it — write numbers down.
- Trying to take in belongings. Most personal items are not allowed; check the prison’s rules first.
- Bottling everything up. Support exists — use it.
Frequently asked questions
What can I take into prison with me?
Very little. You will be given the essentials, and most personal possessions are not permitted on arrival. Anything sent in later must follow the prison’s rules. See our guide to going to prison for the first time.
Will I keep my job?
It depends on your contract and circumstances. Get advice from Citizens Advice or a solicitor, and decide carefully what to tell your employer.
How will my family contact me?
Through visits, letters, the prison phone system and, in many prisons, secure video calls. You can also be sent money for your prison account. See prison visiting rules.
How soon will I know my release date?
The prison calculates and confirms it after you arrive. See our guide to prison release dates.
Official sources and support
See GOV.UK: going to prison for the official overview. The Prison Reform Trust and the Prisoners’ Families Helpline offer practical support, and Samaritans are available day and night.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you can, get advice from a solicitor or Citizens Advice about your specific situation.
