Lancaster Farms Prison - Comprehensive Guide and Visiting Information

Lancaster Farms Prison is a Category C adult male prison located on the outskirts of Lancaster, Lancashire. Established in 1993, it initially served as a remand centre and young offender institution. Over the years, it has transitioned to accommodate adult male inmates, focusing on rehabilitation and resettlement.

Lancaster Farms Prison Contact Information

  • Address: Stone Row Head, Quernmore Road, Lancaster, LA1 3QZ
  • Telephone Number: 01524 563450
  • Email Address: Contact via GOV.UK
  • Visits Booking: 01524 563636
  • Parking: Parking is available on-site, with designated spaces for visitors.

How to Get to Lancaster Farms Prison

Lancaster Farms Prison is accessible via various modes of transportation:

  • By Car: Located near the M6 motorway, exit at Junction 34 and follow signs towards Lancaster City Centre.
  • By Bus: Service No. 18 operates between Lancaster Bus Station and the prison.
  • By Train: The nearest station is Lancaster Railway Station. A taxi from the station to the prison costs approximately £5.

How to Book a Prison Visit and Visiting Times

Booking visits at Lancaster Farms Prison can be done online via the GOV.UK website or by calling 01524 563636. Visits are scheduled for:

  • Wednesdays: 14:00 – 15:00 & 15:30 – 16:30
  • Saturdays and Sundays: 14:00 – 15:00 & 15:30 – 16:30

What to Take to a Prison

Visitors should bring:

  • Valid ID: Passport, driving license, or an official ID card.
  • Essential Items: Minimal personal belongings, as storage is limited.
  • Approved Items: Contact the prison for a list of approved items you can bring for the inmate.

Life and Facilities at Lancaster Farms Prison

Lancaster Farms Prison focuses on rehabilitation with facilities such as:

  • Education and Vocational Training: Inmates can participate in various educational courses and vocational training programs to aid their reintegration.
  • Healthcare Services: Comprehensive healthcare, including mental health support, is available.
  • Recreational Activities: Physical education and recreational activities are provided to improve inmate well-being.

Recent Developments and Changes

In recent years, Lancaster Farms has implemented significant improvements:

  • Enhanced Rehabilitation Services: Increased focus on vocational skills and education.
  • Infrastructure Investments: Upgraded facilities and infrastructure to support inmate rehabilitation.
  • Mental Health Resources: Enhanced mental health services and addiction counseling​​​​.

Notable Incidents

The prison has seen various incidents over its history, such as:

  • 1995 Riot: Caused £160,000 in damage due to protests over conditions.
  • 2007 Restraint Issues: Suspension of officers for excessive use of restraints.
  • 2012 Inmate Murder: A high-profile case involving the murder of an inmate by a cellmate​​.

FAQs

  1. Where is Lancaster Farms Prison located?

    • Lancaster Farms is situated approximately 5 km south of Lancaster city centre in Lancashire, England.
  2. What types of inmates are housed at Lancaster Farms?

    • It holds Category C sentenced adult male prisoners primarily from Northwest England.
  3. What facilities and services are available to inmates?

    • The prison offers cell blocks, workshops, classrooms, healthcare clinics, exercise yards, kitchens, and more.
  4. How can I book a visit to Lancaster Farms Prison?

    • Visits can be booked online via the GOV.UK website or by calling the booking line at 01524 563636.
  5. What are the visiting times at Lancaster Farms Prison?

    • Visiting times are on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 14:00 to 15:00 and 15:30 to 16:30.
  6. What should I bring when visiting an inmate at Lancaster Farms?

    • Visitors should bring valid ID and only essential personal items.
  7. How can inmates communicate with family and friends?

    • Inmates can use in-cell phones to call approved contacts, send emails, and make video calls through the Prison Video app.
  8. What educational opportunities are available at Lancaster Farms?

    • The prison offers various educational courses and vocational training programs.
  9. What mental health resources are available at Lancaster Farms?

    • Comprehensive mental health support, including addiction counseling, is available.
  10. What measures are in place to ensure the safety of inmates at Lancaster Farms?

    • The prison implements stringent security and safeguarding measures to protect inmates.

Summary and Conclusion

Lancaster Farms Prison is committed to providing a secure and rehabilitative environment for its inmates. With its focus on education, vocational training, and mental health support, the prison aims to prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society. For more detailed information, visit the GOV.UK page on Lancaster Farms Prison.

External Links for More Information

Research Sources

Visit our other prison pages such as Kirklevington Prison