Cheap Prison Calls:
Our Guide To Navigating the Prison System

Navigating the prison system can be a complex and daunting process for both prisoners and their families. Understanding the various aspects of the prison system, from legal rights and support services to communication methods and daily routines, is crucial for managing the challenges associated with incarceration. This guide provides valuable information and practical tips to help you navigate the prison system effectively, ensuring that you and your loved ones are well-informed and prepared.

Understanding the Prison System

The prison system is often a world that many of us are not familiar with or exposed to in our daily lives. It can seem distant and complex, but understanding how it works is crucial, especially if you are considering volunteering with us. To help you get started, we’ve summarised some key facts about the system and compiled resources that can guide you further. For those interested in more in-depth perspectives, we encourage you to explore our Podcasts and other informational pages. And of course, if you have any questions, our team is always available to assist.

There are currently 117 prisons in England and Wales, with 104 of them being public prisons managed by Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). The remaining 13 are private prisons operated by companies such as G4S, Sodexo, and Serco. England and Wales have the highest imprisonment rate in Western Europe, with 40,000 people sent to prison in 2020 alone. Alarmingly, around 63% of these individuals had committed non-violent offences, and 44% were sentenced to terms of six months or less. Furthermore, England and Wales have more people serving life sentences than several major European countries combined, including France, Germany, and Italy.

One of the most pressing issues facing the prison system is overcrowding. The UK prison population has increased by 73% over the past 30 years, and it is projected to rise by another 20,000 by 2026, from just under 80,000 to nearly 99,000. This overcrowding is compounded by a significant reduction in prison staff over the past decade, with a 12% decrease since 2010. Additionally, the prison population is aging rapidly, with nearly three times as many people aged 60 and over incarcerated now compared to 16 years ago.

The prison system in England and Wales is managed by HMPPS and overseen by the Ministry of Justice. In addition to traditional prisons, there are other types of detention facilities, such as Immigration Removal Centres run by the Home Office. When someone enters the prison system, they are typically sent to a local prison, which is usually close to the court where their trial took place. Here, they undergo an assessment before being transferred to a dispersal prison to serve their sentence.

Prisons are categorized by security levels, which determine where a person is placed based on their risk of escape, potential threat to the public, and the likelihood of causing disruption within the prison. Over time, individuals can progress through these security categories, potentially moving to an open prison as they near the end of their sentence. However, it’s important to note that overcrowding and high turnover rates often affect prison placements, meaning security concerns are not always the sole factor in determining where someone is housed. Each person in the system has a unique story, and we work with a diverse range of individuals across various prison environments.

Mens Prisons

Male prisons in the UK are organized into four distinct categories, each serving different types of inmates based on their security risk and rehabilitation needs.

Category A - High Security Prisons
Category A prisons are the most secure facilities, housing male prisoners who would pose the greatest threat to the public, police, or national security if they were to escape.

Category B - Local and Training Prisons
Category B prisons serve two primary functions:
- Local Prisons: These facilities detain prisoners who are taken directly from court in the local area, whether sentenced or on remand.
- Training Prisons: These house long-term or high-security prisoners, offering programs to help them prepare for reintegration into society.

Category C - Training and Resettlement Prisons
Category C prisons focus on training and resettlement. The majority of prisoners in the UK are housed in these facilities, where they receive opportunities to develop skills that will aid them in finding work and reintegrating into the community upon release.

Category D - Open Prisons
Category D, or open prisons, have minimal security and allow eligible prisoners to spend most of their day away from the prison on licence for work, education, or other resettlement activities. Only those who have been thoroughly risk-assessed and deemed suitable are housed in open prisons.

Women, Youth & Young Adult Prisons

Female and young adult prisoners are categorized into either closed or open conditions, depending on their risks and needs. Those deemed high-risk are classified as 'restricted status,' meaning they can only be held in a closed prison. In rare cases, they may be placed in a high-security prison (Category A).

‍Young Offender Institution (YOI):
‍- These facilities house prisoners aged 18 to 21.

‍Youth Custody:
‍- These establishments detain individuals under 18 who have been remanded or sentenced by the courts.

In these circumstances, prisoners are assessed both at the start of their sentence and throughout their time in prison to ensure they remain in the appropriate category. If their risk level changes, they may be transferred to a more suitable facility.

Prisoners can be re-categorized at any time if new information arises or if an event occurs that impacts their assessed risk.

If a prisoner is dissatisfied with their re-categorization, they have the right to appeal by filing a complaint through the prison’s complaint system. The prison staff are then responsible for providing a clear rationale for their decision.

Arriving In Prison

When you first arrive at prison, you will be taken to the reception area where several important procedures will take place. Initially, prison staff will interview you to collect personal details, and they may take your fingerprints and photograph. At this stage, you will be assigned a prison number. You will also meet with someone from healthcare, who will check on your health status. It is crucial to inform them if you have any health problems, are taking any medication, or have issues with drugs or alcohol. Additionally, let them know if you are feeling particularly upset or worried.

Next, you will undergo a full search, which should always be conducted respectfully. During the search, you will be asked to remove certain items of clothing, but staff should not touch you while you do this, and you should never be fully naked at any point. You may also be required to sit in a chair that scans for metal objects like mobile phones. A member of the prison staff will then inventory all the belongings you brought with you. You will be informed which items you are allowed to keep with you, known as "in possession" property. This typically needs to fit into two property boxes, while other items, such as mobile phones, cash, valuable items, and certain clothing, will be stored securely as your "stored property."

You will be provided with bedding and clothes if necessary, and you should receive a "first night pack," which includes essentials like tea, milk, and sugar to tide you over until you can purchase items from the prison shop. This pack is usually deducted from future earnings. You should also be allowed to make a phone call to your family or legal adviser, either in the reception area or in your first-night location. You will be informed about how to arrange visits, as you are entitled to a social visit within 72 hours of your conviction.

After reception, on the day of your arrival, you can take a bath or shower if you wish. Even if you arrive too late for the evening meal, you should still be provided with hot food and a drink. You will then be taken to the room where you will sleep. In some cases, you may need to share a room with one or more other people. If you have any concerns about this, or if you feel unsafe, speak to the staff. Non-smokers should not be required to share a room with smokers, and if you are unconvicted, you should not have to share a room with convicted prisoners. Some prisons have a designated area for new prisoners, often referred to as the "first night centre," where you can get acclimated to your new environment.

During your first few days in prison, you will meet additional staff members, including possibly a personal officer assigned to help you. You may be asked for more details about any specific needs you have, such as assistance with housing or employment. Staff will provide you with more information about daily prison life and how things operate, a process known as induction. You may also be required to complete numeracy and literacy tests to help determine which education courses or work programs would be most suitable for you.

If you feel very upset or worried when you arrive at prison, it is important to talk to someone about it. You can reach out to prison staff, including your personal officer or the officer in charge of your area of the prison, known as the wing or landing. Safer Custody staff are also available to ensure that prisoners feel safe. Additionally, you can speak with the healthcare staff during your check-up, or you may choose to talk to the chaplain, a fellow prisoner who serves as a listener or buddy, or contact the Samaritans for support.

Safety In Prison

The prison service has a legal duty of care to protect those in their custody from foreseeable harm, including abuse and neglect. This responsibility is known as safeguarding and involves creating and maintaining a safe environment for prisoners. Under the Prison Service Instruction, Governors are required to establish systems to protect prisoners from abuse and neglect, and to ensure the reporting and investigation of any suspected incidents.

The prison’s duty of care is reinforced by human rights law. Article 2 of the Human Rights Act protects your right to life. According to the Equality and Human Rights Commission, this means the government must take appropriate measures to safeguard life, including making laws to protect you and, in some cases, taking steps to protect you if your life is at risk. Public authorities must also consider your right to life when making decisions that might put you in danger or affect your life expectancy.

Prison staff are responsible for preventing or minimizing various types of harm that an adult in prison might experience. These types include:

‍Physical Harm:Includes hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, restraint, and misuse of medication, as well as inappropriate or unlawful sanctions.

‍Sexual Harm:Includes rape, sexual harassment, inappropriate touching, and other forms of sexual assault or abuse.

‍Emotional or Psychological Harm:Includes threats of harm, intimidation, harassment, and verbal abuse.

‍Financial or Material Harm:Includes theft, fraud, and coercion in relation to your financial affairs.

‍Discriminatory Abuse:Focuses on differences or perceived differences, particularly regarding race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics under the Equality Act.

‍Neglect and Acts of Omission:Includes ignoring medical or physical care needs, failing to provide access to appropriate services, and withdrawing the necessities of life.Self-Neglect: Involves neglecting personal hygiene, health, or surroundings, including behaviors such as hoarding.

If you feel unsafe due to threats, violence, or other harmful behaviors from others, you should speak to prison staff immediately. If staff are aware of the risks, they can take various measures, such as segregation, placement in Vulnerable Prisoner Units (VPUs), or arranging for your transfer to another prison. Staff may also enforce non-association orders to keep you separated from those posing a risk.

The prison's duty to protect you extends to safeguarding you from harm, abuse, or neglect by staff. If you believe you are at risk from staff, you should report your concerns through the Safety Team, trusted staff, or by using confidential access complaint forms. You may also speak to the Local Counter Corruption Managers, Independent Monitoring Board, or report the issue to the police if a crime is involved.

Prison staff are legally allowed to use force in certain situations, but it must be reasonable, necessary, and proportionate. If you believe that force used against you was unjustified, you have the right to make a complaint.

Isolation, whether self-imposed or due to withdrawal from the prison regime, can pose risks to mental health and well-being. If you find yourself isolating, it’s important to seek support from prison staff. Regular interactions with staff can help manage and reduce risks associated with isolation. If you feel your concerns are not being taken seriously, you can make a formal complaint.

If you are involved in or affected by an incident, such as self-harm, violence, or a death in the prison, the prison should offer appropriate support. You should inform staff if you need assistance, and they will provide the necessary care.

Prison Rules And Disciplinary Procedures

Prison rules apply natiowide across all prisons, but governors may introduce local rules as well. When these rules are broken, it is referred to as an offence. If you commit an offence, you may be charged and given a punishment through the adjudication system.

Prison rules can be difficult to understand, but further details are available in the Prisoner Discipline Procedures (Adjudications) Policy Framework, a document typically found in the prison library. When you break a prison rule, it means you have committed an offence. Offences include behaviors such as offending, threatening, or hurting someone else, hitting someone, or getting into a fight. Actions motivated by race or involving offensive language or behavior that could frighten or threaten others also constitute offences. Moreover, keeping someone isolated against their will, behaving dangerously, or being rude to prison staff or visitors can lead to charges.

Obstructing prison staff from performing their duties, whether by blocking their way or preventing them from doing their job, is another offence. Escaping from prison or failing to return after temporary release, known as absconding, are serious violations. Drug and alcohol use, including testing positive for drugs or being drunk, are strictly prohibited. Sexual offences, such as assault, indecent exposure, or harassment, are also considered serious offences.

Causing damage to the prison, including setting fires, destroying property, or displaying threatening messages, can lead to charges. Possessing prohibited items, such as mobile phones, knives, or drugs, and having more of something than allowed, is an offence. Similarly, accepting contraband from visitors, selling or giving away items you are not allowed to have, and stealing can all result in disciplinary action. Being in unauthorized areas, leaving assigned places, or failing to perform work properly are also punishable.

If you are caught breaking the rules, prison staff may put you on report. This means they will inform you that you are suspected of committing an offence and specify the nature of the offence. This should happen immediately or within 48 hours. You will receive two forms: a DIS 1 form, also known as a ‘nicking sheet,’ which details the offence, and a DIS 2 form, which outlines what will happen at the hearing. You have the right to understand these forms, request more paper if needed, and list any witnesses who may support your case at the hearing.

A hearing, also called an adjudication, will follow, where you and prison staff discuss the offence. This hearing is conducted by either the governor or an independent adjudicator. You will be asked to plead guilty or not guilty, and the governor or adjudicator will decide your guilt after considering the evidence. If found guilty, you will receive a punishment. If found not guilty, no further action will be taken.

Before the hearing, which usually occurs the day after being put on report, you should prepare your defense. This includes considering what you want to say, gathering witnesses, and reviewing the relevant paperwork. It may also be helpful to consult the Prisoner Discipline Procedures (Adjudications) Policy Framework, available in the prison library. If you find it difficult to understand anything, seek help from a prison officer or solicitor.

During the hearing, the governor will ensure you are well enough to participate, that the forms are properly completed, and that you understand the process. The charge will be read out, and you will be asked to plead. If you plead guilty, the prison officer will present a statement of events, which you can respond to. If you disagree with any details, you may call witnesses. The governor will then determine the punishment, which will be recorded on a DIS7 form.

If you plead not guilty, the hearing will involve questioning the prison officer, presenting evidence, and possibly hearing from witnesses. You will have the opportunity to defend yourself and explain why you believe you are not guilty. The governor must be convinced of your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to find you guilty. If found guilty, the punishment will be decided and recorded on a form.

In some cases, if the offence is serious, the governor may refer the case to an independent adjudicator who has the authority to impose additional days in prison. Hearings can proceed without your presence if you refuse to attend or if your behavior is too disruptive. In such cases, you will still be informed of the outcome and given the completed DIS7 form.

At the hearing, you can seek legal advice and, in some cases, legal representation. If the hearing is conducted by a governor, legal representation is typically not allowed unless the governor grants it based on the severity of the offence or other considerations. You may also have a McKenzie friend present, who can take notes and offer advice but cannot speak on your behalf unless permitted by the governor.

The punishments for breaking prison rules vary depending on the seriousness of the offence. These can include a caution, loss of privileges, fines, cellular confinement, and extra work or activity restrictions. In some cases, you may be given extra days in prison, which can only be imposed by an independent adjudicator. This is separate from your sentence and adds time to your imprisonment.

In addition to traditional punishments, payback punishments are available, where you are required to complete specific projects in the prison, such as repairing items or improving communal spaces. These punishments aim to teach responsibility and contribute to the prison community. Payback punishments must be proportionate to the offence and cannot be demeaning or humiliating. They should also not interfere with other work or rehabilitative activities you are involved in.

Rehabilitative activities may also be imposed as a condition of a suspended punishment. These activities are designed to address the root causes of your behavior and help you make positive changes. They can include engaging with substance misuse services, prison psychology services, or restorative justice activities. These activities should not conflict with your work, education, or other commitments.

If you do not comply with the conditions of a payback punishment or rehabilitative activity, you may face further charges, and the suspended punishment could be activated. If you believe the hearing was conducted improperly or the punishment was too harsh, you may have the right to appeal.If your hearing was run by a governor, you can request a form called DIS8 from a prison officer on your wing to begin the appeal process.

Tips For Navigating The UK Prison System

Maintaining contact with your legal advisers is a crucial aspect of your time in prison, as it ensures that your legal rights are upheld and that you are kept informed about your case. Prisons provide various means for you to communicate with your solicitor or legal representative. You are entitled to make phone calls to your legal adviser, and these conversations are confidential, meaning they will not be monitored by prison staff. Additionally, you can send and receive letters to and from your solicitor, which are also treated as confidential and should not be read by prison staff. If you need to see your legal adviser in person, arrangements can be made for them to visit you in prison. It's essential to keep these lines of communication open to ensure you receive proper legal support throughout your time in custody.

If you encounter any issues during your time in prison, you have the right to make a formal complaint. The prison system has an internal complaints process that allows you to raise concerns about your treatment, conditions, or any other matter that you believe requires attention. To initiate a complaint, you will need to fill out a complaint form, which is usually available from your wing or from prison staff. Once submitted, your complaint should be addressed within a specified timeframe. If you are not satisfied with the response, you have the option to escalate the issue to higher authorities within the prison or, if necessary, to external organizations like the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. It is important to follow the proper procedures to ensure your complaint is taken seriously and addressed appropriately.

The daily routine in prison, known as the regime, includes specific periods when you are allowed out of your cell, known as "time out of cell." This time is critical for engaging in various activities, such as work, education, exercise, and social interaction with other prisoners. The amount of time you are unlocked and allowed out of your cell can vary depending on the prison's schedule, your behavior, and any restrictions that might be in place. Typically, prisoners are entitled to a minimum amount of time out of their cells each day, though this can be affected by factors such as staffing levels or incidents within the prison. Understanding the regime and advocating for your rights can help ensure you make the most of your time out of cell.

Prison incentive schemes are designed to encourage good behavior and engagement in positive activities, such as education or work. These schemes typically operate on a tiered system, where prisoners can earn privileges based on their behavior and compliance with prison rules. Privileges may include access to better living conditions, additional time for visits, extra time out of cell, or access to certain recreational activities. By participating in the incentive scheme, you can improve your quality of life within the prison, but it’s important to understand the specific criteria and expectations associated with these incentives.

Prisoners are entitled to practice their faith while in custody, and prisons typically have facilities and resources to support various religious practices. The Chaplaincy is a key resource within the prison, providing spiritual guidance and support for prisoners of all faiths. You can attend religious services, participate in study groups, and access religious texts and materials through the Chaplaincy. Additionally, the Chaplaincy team can offer emotional support and help you navigate any challenges related to practicing your faith while in prison. Maintaining your spiritual well-being is an important aspect of coping with life in prison, and the Chaplaincy is there to assist you in this.

Managing money in prison involves understanding how prison accounts work and the ways in which you can spend your money. Each prisoner has an individual account where any money you bring in or earn through prison work is deposited. This account can be used to purchase items from the prison shop or "canteen," such as toiletries, snacks, and other personal items. It is important to budget carefully, as your spending is limited to the balance available in your account. Family and friends can also send money to be added to your account, but there are rules and limits on how much you can receive. Understanding how to manage your prison account is essential for maintaining your needs while in custody.

When you enter prison, certain personal items are allowed to remain with you as "in possession" property, while other items must be stored by the prison. The rules about what you can keep vary depending on the prison, but typically, items such as clothing, hygiene products, and personal letters are permitted. However, there are restrictions on items like electronics, cash, and valuables. If you believe your property has been lost or damaged while in storage, or if you have any issues regarding what you can keep with you, there are procedures in place to file a complaint or request a review. Ensuring that you understand the rules regarding your property can help you manage your belongings more effectively while in prison.

Prison records contain detailed information about your time in custody, including your personal details, behavior, health information, and any incidents you may have been involved in. These records are maintained by the prison and are used to manage your time in custody, assess your needs, and plan for your rehabilitation and eventual release. You have the right to access certain parts of your prison records, particularly those that pertain to your behavior and sentence management. If you believe there is incorrect information in your records, you can request a correction through the appropriate channels. Understanding what is contained in your prison records and how they are used is important for staying informed about your status within the prison system.

Prisons offer various education and work opportunities designed to help you develop new skills and improve your prospects for reintegration after release. Education programs typically include basic literacy and numeracy courses, as well as more advanced subjects and vocational training. Participation in work programs allows you to earn money, gain experience, and contribute to the prison community. These programs are an essential part of prison life, providing structure to your day and helping you build a foundation for life after prison. Engaging in education and work opportunities can also positively impact your behavior and standing within the prison, leading to potential benefits under the prison's incentive schemes.

Your living conditions in prison include the space where you sleep, the facilities you can access, and the overall environment you live in. Typically, you will share a cell with one or more other prisoners, and the quality of your accommodation can vary depending on the prison and its resources. Prisons are required to maintain a certain standard of living conditions, including access to hygiene facilities, adequate bedding, and proper ventilation. If you have concerns about your living conditions, such as overcrowding or hygiene issues, you can raise these with prison staff or through the internal complaints system. Ensuring that you are aware of your rights regarding accommodation can help you advocate for better living conditions if needed.