How to Send Clothes to a Prisoner in the UK
Sending clothes to a prisoner in the UK is possible, but it’s vital to follow the correct procedures. Each prison has its own policies, but there are common rules and restrictions that apply across the board. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting appropriate garments to packaging and delivery.
Understanding the Rules
All UK prisons are governed by regulations set by the Ministry of Justice. Inmates may receive clothing parcels from approved contacts, but the items must comply with prison-specific guidelines. Failure to do so could result in the parcel being rejected.
Approved Clothing Items
The following clothing items are typically permitted:
- Plain t-shirts or tops (no logos or offensive images)
- Joggers, jeans or trousers (without metal studs or excessive zips)
- Jumpers and sweatshirts (without hoods)
- Underwear and socks
- Footwear (simple, no hidden compartments)
Items Commonly Rejected
- Hoodies or clothing with hoods
- Clothing with offensive slogans or gang references
- Camouflage patterns or anything resembling uniforms
- Footwear with hidden storage or excessive padding
Preparing the Clothes
All clothes should be:
- Freshly cleaned and undamaged
- Clearly labelled with the inmate’s name and prison number
- Folded neatly in suitable packaging (preferably a secure, tamper-evident parcel)
Addressing the Package
Use the correct format to ensure the parcel reaches its destination:
[Prisoner’s Full Name]
[Prison Number]
[Prison Name]
[Full Prison Address]
[City, Postcode]
Sending the Package
Always use a reliable and trackable postal or courier service. Keep the tracking number for your records. Many prisons will require approval before parcels are accepted, so check with the institution first.
Confirmation and Delivery
Once received, the parcel will be opened and inspected by prison staff. If all items comply with rules, they will be passed to the inmate. In some cases, the inmate may have to sign for the package.
What If the Clothes Are Rejected?
If items are rejected, the sender is often notified with reasons for non-acceptance. You may be asked to resend compliant items or collect the rejected ones, depending on the prison’s policy.
FAQs
- Can I send shoes? Yes, but only simple shoes with no hidden compartments or steel reinforcements.
- How many items can I send? Quantities are often restricted. Check with the specific prison beforehand.
- Can I include other personal items? Generally, only clothing is allowed in these types of parcels.
- How do I know the parcel was received? Use a tracked service and maintain regular communication with the inmate.
Conclusion
Sending clothes to a prisoner in the UK is perfectly legal—but it must be done properly. By following prison-specific guidelines and packaging items securely and clearly, you’ll ensure your loved one receives what they need. Always check with the individual prison before sending anything to avoid delays or confiscation.
