Send Mail To Prisoner

Send Mail To Prisoner: Sending mail to a prisoner in the UK is a vital way to maintain connections and provide emotional support. Whether it’s a letter, photos, or legal documents, adhering to prison guidelines ensures your mail reaches its destination without issues.

Understanding the Mail Process

To send mail to a prisoner, you need their full name, prison number, and the correct address of the facility. Ensure your mail follows the prison’s guidelines to avoid delays or rejections.

Guidelines for Sending Letters

When sending letters, write clearly and legibly. Avoid using any offensive language or including prohibited items. Each letter should contain the prisoner’s name and number on every page to prevent any mix-up.

Including Photos and Other Items

Photos are generally allowed but should not include any explicit content. Check with the specific prison for any restrictions on the number or type of photos you can send. Avoid sending cash, stamps, or other contraband items, as these will be confiscated.

Using Email Services

The “Email a Prisoner” service is an efficient alternative to traditional mail. You can send an email which is printed and delivered to the prisoner by the staff. This service costs 40p per email, and some prisons allow prisoners to reply through this system​​​​.

Legal Mail Procedures

For sending legal mail, you must use a Criminal Justice Secure Mail (CJSM) email address. Legal correspondence is treated with additional privacy and security measures to ensure confidentiality​​.

Tips for Effective Communication

  1. Keep it Positive: Uplifting messages can significantly impact a prisoner’s mental health.
  2. Be Consistent: Regular correspondence helps build a stronger bond and provides a sense of normalcy.
  3. Follow Rules: Adhere strictly to the prison’s guidelines to ensure your mail is not rejected.

Dealing with Rejected Mail

If your mail is rejected, the prison usually informs the prisoner with the reason. Common reasons include prohibited content, contraband items, or improper addressing.

Sending Urgent Messages

For urgent messages, such as family emergencies, contact the prison’s chaplaincy or family services team. They can assist in delivering critical information promptly​​.

Using the Prison Voicemail Service

Prison Voicemail is another way to stay in touch. This service allows you to leave messages that the prisoner can listen to and respond to. It’s a convenient option when immediate communication is needed​​.

Conclusion

Maintaining contact with a prisoner through mail can be a lifeline for them. By following the guidelines and using available services, you can ensure your correspondence is received safely and promptly. For more detailed information, visit the GOV.UK Staying in Touch page.


FAQs

  1. How do I address a letter to a prisoner?

    • Include the prisoner’s full name, prison number, and the correct facility address on every piece of correspondence.
  2. Can I send photos to a prisoner?

    • Yes, but ensure they do not contain any explicit content and adhere to the prison’s restrictions on the number and type of photos.
  3. What is the Email a Prisoner service?

    • It’s a service that allows you to send an email to a prisoner, which is printed and delivered by prison staff. It costs 40p per email.
  4. How do I send legal documents to a prisoner?

    • Use a Criminal Justice Secure Mail (CJSM) email address for legal correspondence, ensuring privacy and security.
  5. Can I send money to a prisoner?

    • Money cannot be sent through mail but can be deposited through approved methods like online transfer services.
  6. What items are prohibited in mail to prisoners?

    • Prohibited items include cash, stamps, electronic devices, and any item that could be considered contraband.
  7. How do I ensure my mail is not rejected?

    • Follow the prison’s guidelines closely, avoid prohibited items, and ensure proper addressing.
  8. What happens if my mail is rejected?

    • The prisoner is usually informed of the rejection reason, allowing you to rectify the issue in future correspondence.
  9. Can prisoners reply to emails sent through the Email a Prisoner service?

    • In some prisons, prisoners can reply directly. Check with the specific prison for this option.
  10. How can I send an urgent message to a prisoner?

    • Contact the prison’s chaplaincy or family services team to assist with delivering urgent messages.

Summary

Sending mail to a prisoner is a crucial way to stay connected and support them. By following the outlined guidelines and utilizing services like Email a Prisoner and Prison Voicemail, you can ensure your messages are delivered effectively. For more information, visit Prisoners’ Families Helpline.

Sources

Visit our other prison pages such as Email a Prisoner.