Cheap Prison Calls:
How To Get Help With The Costs Of Prison Visits

Visiting a loved one in prison can be an emotionally challenging experience, especially for the first few times, but for many families the financial burden associated with the visits can add an extra layer of stress. Travel costs, accommodation, and other related expenses can quickly add up, especially when prisons are located far from home. However, there are several forms of support available in the UK to help families manage these costs and maintain regular contact with their loved ones. In this article, we’ll highlight the options available to help with the costs of prison visits.

Consistent Visits & Maintaining Communication Is Important

Regular prison visits are crucial for both the prisoner and their family. Research has shown that maintaining family ties can significantly reduce reoffending rates and help prisoners reintegrate into society after their release. Visits provide emotional support, a sense of connection, and can aid in the rehabilitation process by reminding prisoners of the life they will return to.

However, visiting a prison can be expensive, particularly for families who need to travel long distances. Many UK prisons are located in rural or isolated areas, far from the urban centres where families may live. The cost of fuel, train tickets, or bus fares, along with potential accommodation costs, can create financial barriers for families wanting to visit regularly. Fortunately, several support options are available to ease this burden.

Help with Travel Costs:
The Assisted Prison Visits Scheme

The Assisted Prison Visits Scheme (APVS) is the primary government initiative in the UK designed to help families with the cost of travel to prison visits. The scheme provides financial assistance to families and close friends of prisoners who are on low incomes or receiving certain benefits. Here’s how the scheme works and who is eligible:

Eligibility for the Assisted Prison Visits Scheme
To be eligible for the APVS, you must be a close relative, partner, or close friend of the prisoner. You must also meet specific financial criteria. Typically, you may qualify for assistance if you are in receipt of any of the following:

- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (Income-Based)
- Employment and Support Allowance (Income-Related)
- Pension CreditChild Tax Credit (above a certain threshold)What Costs Are Covered?
The Assisted Prison Visits Scheme covers several types of expenses related to visiting a prison, including:

Travel Costs:
The scheme reimburses reasonable travel costs for public transport (such as trains, buses, or coaches) or fuel if you’re driving. Taxi fares may be covered if there are no other means of transport available or if you have a disability that makes using public transport difficult.

Accommodation Costs: If you are visiting a prison that is far from your home and require overnight accommodation, the scheme can provide assistance with hotel or bed and breakfast costs. You must provide receipts and proof of your visit to claim this.

Childcare Costs: If you incur childcare costs in order to visit a prisoner, the scheme may also provide reimbursement, depending on the circumstances.

Refreshments: Modest allowances for food and drink during the trip may be covered as part of the travel costs.


You can apply for assistance through the APVS by completing an application form, which can be found on the GOV.UK website or obtained from the prison’s visitors’ centre. You must provide proof of your relationship to the prisoner, as well as evidence of your income or benefits to qualify for the scheme. Once your application is approved, the travel and accommodation costs will be reimbursed after the visit. It’s important to keep all receipts for your expenses, as you will need these to claim your refund.

Other Available Support

While the Assisted Prison Visits Scheme is the most comprehensive form of support, there are other ways to get help with prison visit costs, particularly for those who may not meet the APVS criteria or need additional assistance.

Several charities and support organisations in the UK provide financial assistance and advice for families of prisoners. These organisations recognise the emotional and financial toll that having a loved one in prison can take on families and offer a range of services, including help with travel and accommodation costs.

PACT (Prison Advice and Care Trust):
PACT provides support to families of prisoners, including advice on financial help for travel and accommodation. The charity works closely with prison visitors’ centres across the UK and can help families navigate the system for claiming assistance.

Prisoners' Families Helpline:
This organisation offers advice on how to access the Assisted Prison Visits Scheme and other forms of support. They can also direct families to local charities or organisations that may offer grants or additional help for travel costs.

The Hardman Trust:
The Hardman Trust provides grants to people affected by the criminal justice system. While these grants are usually aimed at prisoners themselves, the trust may also be able to provide information on family support services.


Travel Discounts and Concessions

In addition to the APVS, some travel companies and transport services offer discounts for families visiting prisoners:

Rail Discounts:
National Rail often offers discounted tickets for families on low incomes or receiving benefits. If you are travelling by train to visit a prisoner, it’s worth checking with your local rail provider to see if any concessions apply.

Local Authority Support:
In some cases, local councils may provide financial support or travel concessions for families on low incomes. Contacting your local council for advice on travel support is another option to consider.

Financial Support And Advice

Beyond travel and accommodation costs, families of prisoners may face other financial pressures, including loss of income due to a family member’s imprisonment. It’s important to seek financial advice and support if needed. Many organisations offer free financial advice and can help you manage the costs associated with supporting a loved one in prison.

Citizens Advice:
Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can provide free and impartial advice on benefits, debt management, and accessing financial support. They can also guide you through the process of applying for government schemes like the APVS.

Universal Credit and Benefits:
If you are eligible for benefits such as Universal Credit, make sure you are receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to. In some cases, families affected by imprisonment may be eligible for additional support or emergency funds.

Visiting a loved one in prison can be an essential part of maintaining family connections and supporting their rehabilitation, but the financial costs of travel and accommodation can be a significant burden for many families. Fortunately, the Assisted Prison Visits Scheme and other forms of support are available to help ease this burden. By applying for the APVS, exploring charitable assistance, and taking advantage of travel discounts, families can find ways to manage the costs of prison visits and continue to provide much-needed emotional support to their loved ones.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the costs of prison visits, don’t hesitate to reach out to charities, visitors’ centres, and advice organisations for help. By seeking financial support and planning ahead, you can make the process of visiting a loved one in prison more affordable and less stressful.