What prison visitation rights do inmates have in the UK

Prison visits must be arranged in advance, following a set procedure. The main steps for arranging a visit include:

1. Approval of visitors: Before visiting, individuals must be on the inmate’s approved visitors list. Inmates submit a list of people they wish to visit them, which is then reviewed by the prison. Potential visitors will need to provide identification and contact details to be approved.

2. Booking a visit: Visits can be booked by phone, online, or in person at the prison’s visitor centre. Most prisons use the Visit a Prison online service on the UK government website. Visitors must provide details such as the prisoner’s name, prison number, and their own information.

3. Visitor ID requirements: Visitors are required to bring valid photo ID to the visit, such as a passport or driving licence. The specific ID requirements are listed on the prison’s website or provided when the visit is arranged.

4. Security checks: All visitors must undergo security checks upon arrival at the prison. This includes going through metal detectors and having their personal belongings searched. Some high-security prisons may also require biometric checks, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to ensure the identity of visitors.

5. Arrival time: Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for security checks and registration. Late arrivals may result in shortened or cancelled visits.

Rules during prison visits

There are strict rules in place to ensure visits are conducted safely and securely:

1. Physical contact: Physical contact between inmates and visitors is generally limited. In most cases, inmates and visitors may be allowed a brief hug or handshake at the beginning and end of the visit. However, in high-security prisons or when the inmate is on a restricted regime, contact may be further restricted.

2. Supervision: Visits are typically monitored by prison staff, either by direct observation or via CCTV. Conversations between inmates and visitors may also be overheard, with the exception of legal visits, which are confidential.

3. Items allowed: Visitors are not allowed to bring certain items into the visiting area, such as mobile phones, food, or gifts. In most cases, there are strict rules about what can be passed between inmates and visitors, and any attempt to pass contraband could lead to the visit being terminated and further penalties for the inmate.

4. Dress code: Many prisons have a dress code for visitors to ensure safety and appropriateness. Visitors are asked to dress modestly, avoiding clothing that could be seen as provocative or revealing. Some prisons may also prohibit visitors from wearing certain types of clothing, such as hooded tops or heavy coats.

The role of family visits in rehabilitation

Maintaining regular contact with family and friends is crucial for an inmate’s well-being and rehabilitation. Research shows that prisoners who receive regular visits from their family members are less likely to reoffend upon release, as these relationships provide emotional support and help them reintegrate into society. Family visits also help inmates cope with the challenges of prison life, reducing the risk of depression, anxiety, and self-harm.

For prisoners with children, visits are particularly important, as they allow inmates to maintain a relationship with their families. Many prisons offer child-friendly visiting areas with toys and activities, making visits a more positive experience for both inmates and their children.

FAQs

1. What prison visitation rights do inmates have in the UK? Inmates in the UK have the right to regular visits from family, friends, and legal representatives. The frequency of visits depends on their status, with remand prisoners entitled to more visits than convicted prisoners.

2. How many visits are inmates entitled to in the UK? Remand prisoners are entitled to three visits per week, while convicted prisoners typically receive two visits per month. Enhanced prisoners under the Incentives and Earned Privileges scheme may receive additional visits.

3. Can inmates receive video visits? Yes, video visits have become more common in UK prisons, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. The Purple Visits platform is commonly used for virtual visits when in-person visits are not possible.

4. How do I arrange a prison visit? To arrange a prison visit, you must first be on the inmate’s approved visitors list. Visits can then be booked online via the Visit a Prison service or by phone, and visitors must bring valid ID to the visit.

5. Are visits monitored in UK prisons? Yes, prison visits are generally monitored by staff, either through direct observation or CCTV, to ensure security. Legal visits are confidential and not subject to monitoring.

Summary and conclusion

In conclusion, inmates in the UK have the right to receive regular visits from family, friends, and legal representatives, with the exact number of visits depending on their status and behaviour. Visits are an essential part of prison life, helping inmates maintain relationships, support rehabilitation, and reduce reoffending. Although visits are subject to strict rules and security procedures, prisons aim to make them as positive and meaningful as possible, with options for in-person and video visits.

For further reading, visit Prisoners’ Families and Friends Service.

Research Sources

1. https://www.gov.uk
2. https://www.bbc.co.uk