What Can Prisoners Buy in Jail

Leisure and entertainment are important for mental well-being, so what can prisoners buy in jail also includes items for personal enrichment and relaxation. These items typically include:

• Books, magazines, and newspapers
• Stationery such as pens, paper, envelopes, and stamps
• Puzzle books like crosswords or Sudoku

Prison Accounts and Purchases

Prisoners purchase these items through a ‘prison account,’ which is funded by their earnings from prison work or money sent by family and friends. The system ensures that prisoners can manage their funds and buy items they need, though all purchases are subject to prison regulations and checks.

Limits and Regulations

While there are many items available, it’s important to note that what can prisoners buy in jail is still regulated. Possession of certain items can lead to penalties. Items like mobile phones, drugs, weapons, and certain luxury goods are strictly prohibited. The availability of items and the specific rules can vary between institutions, so it’s essential to check with each prison for their specific guidelines.

Earning and Spending Money in Prison

Prisoners can earn money through work or education programs, with wages typically ranging from £10 to £40 per week, depending on the job and the inmate’s behavior and performance​​​​. This money is credited to their prison account, which can then be used to buy items from the canteen.

Summary and Conclusion

What can prisoners buy in jail significantly impacts their quality of life, providing them with basic needs and small comforts. From hygiene products to leisure items, the ability to make purchases helps prisoners maintain some normalcy during their incarceration. Family and friends can support their loved ones by contributing to their prison accounts, ensuring they have access to these essential items. Always check the specific rules of each prison for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

FAQs

1. What can prisoners buy in jail? Prisoners can buy a range of items including hygiene products, food, clothing, and leisure items.

2. How do prisoners buy items in jail? Prisoners use a prison account funded by earnings or money sent by family to purchase items from the canteen.

3. Are there restrictions on what prisoners can buy? Yes, items like mobile phones, drugs, weapons, and luxury goods are prohibited.

4. Can family and friends send money to prisoners? Yes, money can be sent electronically or through cheques and postal orders to fund the prisoner’s account.

5. What food items are available for prisoners to buy? Snacks, instant noodles, canned foods, and drink mixes are commonly available.

6. What hygiene products can prisoners purchase? Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and razors are typically available.

7. Do all prisons have the same items available? Availability can vary by institution, so it’s important to check with the specific prison.

8. Can prisoners buy clothing items? Yes, basic clothing items like underwear, socks, and sweatshirts can be purchased.

9. Are there any leisure items prisoners can buy? Yes, prisoners can buy books, magazines, stationery, and puzzle books.

10. How much do prisoners earn for work in jail? Prisoners can earn between £10 and £40 per week depending on their job and performance.

For further details, visit Prison Info and Doing Time.

Sources:

• Prison Info
• Doing Time
• Prison Inside

Read our other prison pages such as Can prisoners order from Argos.