What You Can Take to Prison and How Family Can Visit in England
Entering prison is a significant life event, and it’s natural to have questions about what you can take to prison and how family can visit. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of allowable personal items in UK prisons and the process for family visits.
What You Can Bring to Prison
The rules about what you can take into prison in England vary depending on the facility, but there are some general guidelines:
- Clothing: You may be allowed to bring a limited number of personal clothing items, such as underwear and socks. Most prisons provide a uniform for daily wear.
- Money: You can take a small amount of money, which will be deposited in your prison account. This account can be used to purchase items from the prison canteen.
- Books and Magazines: Some personal reading materials are typically allowed, but they may need to be sent directly from the publisher or a bookstore to the prison.
- Legal Documents: Important papers related to your case or other legal matters are generally permitted.
- Prescription Medications: If you have a prescription, bring it along with your medication. The prison healthcare team will assess and distribute your medication as needed.
- Photos: A few personal photographs can usually be brought in, but there may be restrictions on size and quantity.
It’s important to check with the specific prison for their rules, as contraband items can lead to disciplinary action.
How Family Can Visit
- Booking a Visit: Family members must book a visit in advance. This can usually be done online or by phone. The prisoner must add the names of potential visitors to their visitor list, and visitors must provide identification.
- Frequency and Duration: The frequency and duration of visits vary depending on the prison’s policies and the prisoner’s privileges.
- Identification: Visitors must bring acceptable identification. This typically includes a photo ID, but requirements can vary, so it’s important to check in advance.
- Security Checks: Visitors should expect to go through security checks similar to those at airports. This may include metal detectors and searches.
- Behaviour and Dress Code: There are rules about behaviour and dress code during visits. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and security of visitors, prisoners, and staff.
- Children: Children can visit, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The number of children allowed may be limited.
- Special Visits: Some prisons offer ‘family days’ or ‘extended visits’ for prisoners who have earned these privileges, allowing more time for family interaction in a relaxed setting.
- Contact During Visits: The level of physical contact allowed during visits can vary. Some prisons may allow brief hugs at the beginning and end of the visit, while others have stricter rules.
- Sending Money and Items: Families can send money to a prisoner’s account. However, sending items directly to the prisoner is often restricted, and items usually need to be purchased through an approved catalogue.
Remember, each prison in England has its own set of rules and procedures, so it’s important to contact the specific facility for detailed information. Understanding and adhering to these guidelines can help make the experience smoother for both the prisoner and their visitors.
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