Request a Prison Visit

You can book your visit online or by phone. For online bookings, you will need a unique visitor identification number, which you can get from your first phone booking. Ensure you have all necessary details ready:

• Prisoner’s number
• Your unique visitor identification number
• Dates of birth for all visitors

For phone bookings, contact the relevant prison’s booking office. They will guide you through the process and provide any additional information needed.

Visitor Guidelines

Visitors must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure the safety and security of the prison. These include:

• Dress Code: No revealing, offensive, or provocative clothing. Avoid blue denim and excessive jewelry.
• Identification: Bring official ID cards to confirm your identity and relationship with the prisoner.
• Screening: Be prepared for scanning and searches to prevent smuggling and maintain security.

COVID-19 Considerations

The pandemic has impacted prison visitations significantly. Many prisons have adopted video visitation to maintain contact while minimizing health risks. These can be conducted from home or through on-site video terminals at the prison.

Getting Help with Visit Costs

If you’re receiving certain benefits or have a health certificate, you might be eligible for financial assistance with the cost of visits. This can cover travel, meals, and accommodation if needed. Contact the Assisted Prison Visits Unit for more information and to apply for support.

Benefits of Prison Visits

Prison visits offer numerous benefits, including:

• For Inmates: Maintaining family bonds, boosting morale, and supporting mental health.
• For Visitors: Active involvement in the inmate’s welfare, easing reintegration, and reducing worry.
• For Prisons: Improved inmate compliance and reduced disciplinary incidents.

Video Visitation Options

Video visits provide an alternative to in-person visits, especially useful during health crises. They enable more frequent communication and can be more convenient for distant families. However, in-person visits are often preferred for their personal touch.

FAQs

1. How do I request a prison visit?

   • You can request a prison visit online or by phone, providing necessary details like the prisoner’s number and dates of birth for all visitors.

2. What information do I need to book a visit?

   • You need the prisoner’s number, your unique visitor identification number, and the dates of birth for all visitors.

3. Can I visit any prisoner?

   • Only if the prisoner has added you to their visitor list, which can take up to two weeks for approval.

4. What are the types of prison visits?

   • Types include social visits, legal visits, and family day visits.

5. Are there any dress code requirements for visiting a prison?

   • Yes, visitors must adhere to guidelines prohibiting revealing, offensive, or provocative clothing.

6. How has COVID-19 affected prison visits?

   • The pandemic led to the suspension of in-person visits, with many facilities adopting video visitation as an alternative.

7. Can I get help with the cost of visiting a prison?

   • Yes, financial assistance is available for those on certain benefits or with a health certificate.

8. What are the benefits of prison visits?

   • Benefits include maintaining family bonds, boosting inmate morale, and supporting mental health.

9. How do I book a legal visit?

   • Legal visits must be arranged directly with the prison.

10. What is the approval process for visiting a prisoner?

    • Visitors must pass a screening process, which includes background checks and verification of identity.

Conclusion

Requesting a prison visit involves understanding the requirements, following the booking process, and adhering to guidelines. Whether you opt for an in-person or video visit, staying connected with a loved one in prison provides essential support for both the inmate and their family. For more detailed information and to request a visit, you can visit GOV.UK.

References

• GOV.UK
• Prison Inside
• nidirect
• The UK Rules

Visit our other prison page such as what to take to a prison visit