Visiting a loved one in prison is a crucial way to maintain relationships and offer support during a difficult time. Prison visits provide inmates the opportunity to stay connected with their families and friends, offering emotional stability and hope for rehabilitation. However, the process of booking a prison visit, understanding the rules, and being aware of what to expect can sometimes feel overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the process step-by-step, while also addressing important aspects like cheap prison calls, prison phone plans, and other ways to stay connected outside of visits.

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Booking A Prison Visit

The first and most essential step in visiting a prisoner is booking a visit. Each prison has its own system for booking, and it’s usually done via phone or online. You’ll need to provide certain information, including the prisoner's details and the names of those who will be visiting. It’s essential to book well in advance, as visits can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

When you’re booking a visit, keep in mind that the rules and timings may vary depending on the type of prison, whether it’s a high-security facility or a standard correctional institution. Ensure you’re clear on the visitation rules and timings to avoid any confusion. For more information about specific prisons and visititing hours, check our our A-Z guide of UK prisons.

Getting Registered For Prison Visits

Before attending a visit, all visitors must be registered at the prison they are visiting. This process typically involves an identification check and biometric registration. Upon arrival at the Visits Reception, you will be photographed, have a scan taken of your finger, and be asked to provide identification.

For first-time visitors, it’s essential to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit to complete the registration process. Once registered, you won’t need to provide identification every time, except when there’s a gap of more than three months between visits. However, photo identification is still required if you are bringing or leaving clothing parcels.

On your first visit, you’ll need to bring proper identification. Visitors aged 18 and over must provide photographic ID by their third visit, along with being photographed and scanned for the system. Acceptable forms of identification include:

- Driving license
- Passport
- Electoral identity card
- Senior citizen’s smart pass
- Citizen’s card

For visitors aged 16-18, additional documentation may be required if visiting without an adult. In such cases, documents like a birth certificate, medical card, or student ID may suffice.

Getting Searched On A Prison Visit

Security is a priority in prisons, and all visitors should expect to be searched before entering the visits room. This process is essential to ensure that no banned items are brought into the facility. Visitors, including children, will undergo a rub-down search, and everyone must pass a specially trained detection dog.

The dog, which is trained to detect banned substances or contraband, does not make physical contact with visitors. However, if the dog indicates that someone may be carrying prohibited items, the visitor will be offered the choice of a closed visit (in a setting where physical contact is not allowed) or the option to reschedule.

If you are part of a group visit, other visitors may proceed with their visit while the individual flagged by the dog will need to follow security protocols. This ensures a secure environment for both prisoners and visitors.

What To Bring And What To Leave Behind

Visitors are required to leave their personal belongings, such as bags, phones, and wallets, in the specially provided lockers at the prison. It’s important to follow this rule to avoid delays or issues during the visit.

As for clothing, be mindful of the prison’s dress code. Sporting team clothing, for example, is not allowed, and revealing clothing must be avoided. Ensuring you follow these guidelines is crucial, as failing to comply could result in being denied entry for the visit.

Special Requirements for Visitors

If you or anyone in your party has special requirements, such as wheelchair access, it’s important to inform the prison staff when booking the visit. Some prisons, like Maghaberry, require Blue Badge holders to pre-book a disabled parking space. For all other visitors, parking is usually available at designated areas like the Visitors’ Centre.Prisons aim to accommodate special needs as best as possible, so communication ahead of time will ensure that your visit goes smoothly.

Number Of Visitors Allowed

Typically, a prison visit allows up to three adults and two children, totaling five people per visit. If you require a change to this arrangement, it’s possible to contact the booking office and discuss adjustments. Keep in mind that no amendments can be made within 24 hours of the visit, so plan accordingly.

Help With Travel Expenses To A Prison Visit

Visiting a loved one in prison can be costly, especially if the facility is far from your home. Fortunately, there are schemes in place to assist with travel expenses for those on a low income. The Prison Visits Scheme may cover some of the cost, making visits more affordable for families in need.

In certain cases, prisons offer free transportation options to and from the facility. For example, Maghaberry provides a free taxi service between Moria Train Station and the Visitors’ Welcome Centre. Magilligan Prison offers a free NIPS Bus between Bellerena Train Station and its Visitors’ Centre. It’s essential to notify the prison ahead of time if you plan to use these services.

Sending Money And Gifts To Prisoners

Aside from visits, one of the most common ways to support someone in prison is by sending them money or personal items. However, there are specific rules governing what you can and cannot send.

Money can be deposited into a prisoner’s account either online, through post, or in person at the prison. Funds deposited can be used for phone calls, buying essentials from the prison canteen, or other approved expenditures.

It’s worth noting that prison phone calls can be expensive, so adding funds for Cheap Prison Calls, Low-Cost Prison Calls, or Affordable Prison Calls can help inmates stay in touch with family and friends without excessive costs. Many prisons now offer Prison Phone Plans that cater to different budgets, allowing prisoners to make Cheaper Prison Calls and communicate more frequently.

When it comes to gifts, items such as clothing or books may be permitted, but there are usually restrictions. It’s important to check the prison’s rules before sending anything, as contraband or prohibited items can lead to consequences for both the prisoner and the sender.

Making A Complaint About Prison Services

If you have concerns about your visit, the treatment of your loved one, or any aspect of prison services, there is a process in place for making a formal complaint. Each prison has its own complaint procedures, and it’s important to follow these steps to ensure your issue is heard and addressed properly.

Visitors can submit complaints by filling out a booklet available at the Visitors' Centre, Visits Reception Complex, or through Family Liaison Officers. Once completed, the booklet can be placed in the post boxes provided in the Visitors' Centre and Visitors' Reception. Alternatively, visitors can mail the completed booklet to the prison they are complaining about, addressing it to the Prison Visits Manager.It's important to submit the complaint within 21 days of the issue.

Prisoners can access complaint forms on all prison landings, and the Northern Ireland Prison Service runs a confidential complaints system to address these concerns.

Former prisoners who wish to file a complaint must do so in writing, addressing it to the Governor of the prison where they were most recently imprisoned. The complaint should be submitted within 21 days of the incident in question.

Support For Visitors

Visiting a loved one in prison can be an emotional and challenging experience. It’s not uncommon for visitors, especially children, to need additional support during this time. Most prisons offer resources for families, including counseling services or support groups that can help you and your children cope with the difficulties of having a loved one incarcerated.

Staying connected with someone in prison through visits, letters, and phone calls can significantly improve their mental well-being and chances of rehabilitation. Prison phone services, especially Cheap Prison Calls and Low-Cost Prison Calls, are vital tools in maintaining regular contact.

Many UK Prison Phone Services offer Inmate Calling Plans and Jail Phone Services that make it easier for families to communicate without facing financial hardship. It’s important to understand the Prison Call Rates and explore options for Prison Phone Number Services that work best for you and your loved one.

Maintaining contact with a loved one in prison, whether through visits or phone calls, plays a crucial role in their rehabilitation and mental health. By understanding the registration process, security protocols, and rules surrounding visits, you can ensure a smooth experience. Additionally, taking advantage of Affordable Prison Calls, Cheap Prison Calls, and Low-Cost Prison Call Plans can make staying connected easier and more affordable.

Always be aware of the specific rules of the prison you are visiting, whether it’s in terms of dress code, allowable items, or visitor limits. Planning ahead and ensuring you follow the required steps will help you focus on what really matters: supporting your loved one during their time of need.