Learn everything you need to know about HMP Haverigg

HMP Haverigg is a Category D open prison located near Millom in Cumbria, North West England. Known for its unique rural setting and focus on rehabilitation, the prison provides a structured environment for men who are nearing the end of their sentences and are being prepared for release.

Unlike high-security establishments, Haverigg places a strong emphasis on trust, responsibility, and work opportunities, helping prisoners to reintegrate smoothly into the community.

For families and friends, understanding how HMP Haverigg operates can help make the process of staying connected easier and less stressful. This guide will walk you through its history, daily routine, visiting information, and practical tips to save money on phone calls.

The History of HMP Haverigg

HMP Haverigg opened in 1967 on the site of a former Royal Air Force station. Its original design and open layout set it apart from more traditional prisons. Over the years, the prison has undergone modernisation, but its core purpose has remained consistent to provide a low-security environment focused on rehabilitation.

The prison was originally a borstal for young offenders but has since evolved into an adult male prison. Its open status allows prisoners to work and train in preparation for release, with some even participating in employment placements in the local community.

Haverigg’s setting on the edge of the Lake District gives it a calmer and less intimidating atmosphere than many other prisons. It’s often considered a progression prison, where prisoners who have demonstrated good behaviour and responsibility move from higher security categories to complete their sentences.

Category and Capacity

HMP Haverigg is officially designated as a Category D open prison. This means it houses low-risk male prisoners who are trusted to follow prison rules and who are unlikely to attempt escape.

The prison can hold around 280 men, and its open status means there are fewer physical security barriers than closed prisons. Instead, the regime relies on personal responsibility and close monitoring to maintain order.

Prisoners in Haverigg are usually at the final stage of their sentence, often working towards release on licence or preparing to return to their communities.

Life and Routine Inside HMP Haverigg

The daily routine at Haverigg is structured to give prisoners a sense of normality while promoting independence and responsibility. Unlike more secure prisons, the focus is on employment, training, and education rather than containment.

A typical day includes:
- Work placements in industries such as recycling, agriculture, catering, and construction
- Educational courses, including literacy, numeracy, and vocational qualifications
- Rehabilitation programmes, including drug and alcohol support where needed
- Physical exercise and access to the gym and outdoor sports
- Family contact, including phone calls and scheduled visits

Prisoners are expected to actively participate in work or training during the day. Many will also take part in Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL), allowing them to work in the community during the day and return to prison in the evening.

This approach aims to bridge the gap between prison and release, helping individuals build confidence and develop the skills they need to successfully reintegrate into society.

Rehabilitation and Support

Visits are an essential part of maintaining strong family ties, which play a huge role in successful rehabilitation.

Visiting Times (typical, but subject to change):
- Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday: 14:00 – 16:00

All visits must be booked in advance, and visitors must be on the approved contact list. Upon arrival, visitors go through security checks, and valid ID is required.

The visits hall is designed to be relaxed and family-friendly, with seating and refreshment facilities. Because Haverigg is an open prison, the visiting environment is often less intimidating than in high-security establishments.

How to get there:
- By car: HMP Haverigg is located about two miles from Millom. Free parking is available on site.
- By train: Millom railway station is the closest, followed by a short taxi or bus ride.
- By bus: Local bus services operate to the prison from Millom town centre.

👉 For the latest visiting guidance, always check the official HMP Haverigg GOV.UK page.

Saving on Prison Calls from HMP Haverigg

Phone calls are one of the most important ways to stay connected with someone in prison. However, calling a mobile from inside can cost around 25p per minute, which adds up quickly, especially for daily calls.

That’s where CallFromPrison.co.uk can help. By providing a virtual landline number, your loved one can call you at the cheaper landline rate, helping both of you save money and talk more often.

How it works:
- You sign up and receive a virtual landline number.
- Your loved one adds the number to their approved contact list.
- They call at the landline rate, and the call forwards directly to your mobile.
- You save money and can stay connected without worrying about high call costs.

Many families save over £100 a year this way. More importantly, regular communication supports rehabilitation and strengthens family bonds.

👉 Set up your virtual landline today.

Security and Operations

While HMP Haverigg is an open prison, security remains a priority. Instead of high walls and fences, security relies on risk management and strict rules. Prisoners are expected to follow the regime carefully, and any breaches can result in immediate transfer to a closed prison.

The atmosphere is less restrictive, but this freedom comes with responsibility. Staff maintain close oversight to ensure safety for both prisoners and the public.

For most prisoners, family contact is a lifeline. Regular phone calls and visits provide emotional support, reduce the sense of isolation, and help maintain stability. Research shows that prisoners who stay connected with loved ones are less likely to reoffend after release.

With services like CallFromPrison.co.uk, families can stay in touch without the stress of high phone bills, making communication easier and more affordable throughout the sentence.

HMP Haverigg plays a key role in the rehabilitation process for many men approaching the end of their prison sentences. Its open, low-security environment allows prisoners to develop skills, rebuild relationships, and prepare for a successful return to the community.

For families, understanding how the prison works — from visiting times to how to save on phone calls can make the journey less overwhelming. By staying connected and offering support, loved ones can play an important part in someone’s rehabilitation journey.

👉 To make staying in touch easier and cheaper, visit CallFromPrison.co.uk and set up your virtual landline today.