What can women take to prison

What to take to a womens prison with you: If you are a woman preparing to serve time in a UK prison, there are a few key things you should consider bringing. Firstly, ensure that you have written down the contact numbers of your family, friends, and legal advisers as you won’t have access to your mobile phone in prison. Take your GP’s contact details and copies of any prescriptions you have to ensure a smooth transition of your medical care. You can wear your own clothes in prison as long as they meet the prison’s requirements – they must not be hooded, studded, resemble a uniform, contain offensive motifs, or be in a poor state of repair. It’s also advisable to pack for both warm and cold weather. You are usually allowed unlimited underwear, including vests, which can be very useful. However, avoid bringing valuable items as they may get lost. Instead, bring personal items that will offer comfort, like photos of family members. It’s also recommended to bring some cash which will be credited to your prison account for purchases like toiletries and phone calls.

What can women take to prison - Preparing for prison

Inform a Family Member or Friend: If possible, let someone you trust know that you may be going to prison, and which one if you know. This can be essential for maintaining outside communication and support.
Contact Numbers: Be prepared with phone numbers of family, friends, and legal advisers. You’ll be asked for these when you arrive so they can be approved for your use. Also, have address details and dates of birth for potential visitors. Ensure these numbers are written down, as you won’t have access to your mobile phone.
Childcare: If you have children, consider their care arrangements in your absence. If you have a child under 18 months old or are due to give birth in prison, you may be able to live with them in a Mother and Baby Unit (MBU).
Health: Take your GP’s contact details and copies of any prescriptions you have. This can speed up the process of continuing your medication. Also, bring essential aids such as glasses, hearing aids, or walking aids.
Benefits and Housing: Learn how your benefits will be affected by your prison stay. Inform relevant agencies to avoid owing repayments. Also, take contact numbers for agencies like your local housing benefit office or your landlord.
Employment: Consider whether to inform your employer about your situation, or arrange for someone to do it for you.
Finances: Have your bank account details and contact numbers written down. You won’t be able to keep your bank card or any cash with you. Any cash you have on reception will be credited to your prison account.
Items of Property: Some personal items can be taken into the prison, but space is limited to two property boxes measuring 70cm x 55cm x 25cm each. Valuable items are discouraged, and photos of family members can be comforting.
Clothing: Women can wear their own clothes in prison, as long as they meet certain standards. Clothing should not be hooded, studded, uniform-like, offensive, in poor repair, or immodest. You’re usually allowed unlimited underwear, including vests.

Arriving at a womens prison

When you arrive, you’ll be transported from the court in an escort vehicle. You’ll likely be taken to the local women’s prison that serves your court, such as HMP/YOI Bronzefield, HMP/YOI Peterborough, HMP/YOI Eastwood Park, HMP/YOI Low Newton, HMP/YOI Foston Hall, HMP/YOI New Hall, or HMP/YOI Styal.

In the reception area of the prison, you’ll undergo an interview, a fingerprinting and photography process, healthcare assessment, and a search. Your property will be documented, and certain items will be stored safely for you. You’ll also receive bedding, clothes, a ‘first night pack’, and the opportunity to make a phone call.

After reception, you’ll be taken to your sleeping quarters and given a chance to bathe. You’ll meet staff, receive an induction to prison life, and possibly complete numeracy and literacy tests.

Remember that every prison has its own specific rules and regulations, so it’s a good idea to call ahead and ask for more detailed information if possible.