What Is Nottingham Prison Like?

Visitors must book in at the visitors’ centre at least 30 minutes before their visit. Visiting hours are from 09:00 to 11:00 and 14:00 to 16:00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The visitors’ centre, run by the Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT), includes facilities such as toilets, a children’s play area, and a snack bar​​​​.

Communication with Inmates

Inmates at Nottingham Prison can communicate with their families through secure video calls, phone calls, emails, and letters. Phone calls are made using phones in their cells, and they can send and receive emails through the EmailaPrisoner service. Letters can be sent at any time, provided they include the inmate’s name and prisoner number​​.

Safety and Inspections

Despite efforts to maintain a safe environment, Nottingham Prison has faced challenges. In 2018, it was criticized for being fundamentally unsafe after multiple inspections. There have been several deaths, some believed to be suicides, highlighting the need for improved safety measures. The prison has implemented various programs to address these issues, including training prisoners as Samaritans ‘listeners’ to support others during difficult times​​​​.

FAQs

1. What is Nottingham Prison like for first-time visitors?

   • First-time visitors should arrive early for identity verification and security checks. The visitors’ centre provides amenities and support.

2. How can I contact someone at Nottingham Prison?

   • Inmates can be contacted through phone calls, secure video calls, emails, and letters. More details are available on the prison’s website.

3. What educational opportunities are available at Nottingham Prison?

   • The prison offers a variety of educational and vocational training programs aimed at improving inmates’ skills for post-release life.

4. What is Nottingham Prison like in terms of safety?

   • The prison has faced safety challenges but continues to implement measures to protect inmates and staff, including drug prevention programs and support for mental health.

5. Can children visit Nottingham Prison?

   • Yes, children can visit, but they must undergo a security check. There is a children’s play area in the visitors’ centre.

6. What items can visitors bring to Nottingham Prison?

   • Visitors can bring items such as dummies, baby wipes, nappies, milk powder, and prescribed medication, all in clear plastic bags.

7. How does Nottingham Prison support inmates’ mental health?

   • The prison provides access to mental health services and has a Samaritans Listeners scheme to support inmates.

8. What is Nottingham Prison like during family days?

   • Family days are held once a month, offering extended visiting hours and activities to help maintain family bonds.

9. What is the process for sending money to inmates at Nottingham Prison?

   • Money can be sent online through a secure service. Cash, cheques, and postal orders are no longer accepted.

10. What community projects are associated with Nottingham Prison?

    • The prison engages in various community projects, including visits from local children with special needs and reconditioning bikes for charity​​​​​​.

Summary and Conclusion

What is Nottingham Prison like? It’s a complex institution that strives to balance security with rehabilitation. While it has faced significant challenges, including safety concerns and instances of inmate deaths, ongoing efforts aim to improve conditions. The prison offers various educational and vocational programs, supports inmate mental health, and maintains strict security measures to ensure a safer environment for both inmates and staff. For more information, visit the HM Prison and Probation Service website. Visit our other sites such as Norwich Prison