Can Prisoners Call Mobile Phones in the UK?

The short answer is yes, prisoners in the UK are allowed to call mobile phones. However, there are important rules, costs, and approval procedures that families should understand before they can receive calls. For many people new to the prison system, the process can feel unclear, especially when calls do not come through immediately or costs appear higher than expected.

Are Prisoners Allowed to Call Mobile Numbers?

Prisoners in England and Wales can call mobile phones as long as the number has been approved and added to their authorised contact list. All numbers must go through a verification process before they can be used.

This approval process exists to maintain security and ensure calls are made only to authorised individuals. Once approved, the number is stored in the prisoner’s phone account and can be dialled during permitted phone access times.

Prisoners cannot call numbers that have not been approved.

How Does the Approval Process Works

Before a prisoner can call your mobile, they must submit your number to prison staff. The prison may verify the contact to confirm identity and ensure it complies with regulations. In some cases, you may be contacted to confirm that you consent to receiving calls. Responding quickly can help avoid delays in approval. Once the number is authorised, the prisoner can call you using phone credit.

Why Mobile Calls from Prison Are More Expensive

Although prisoners can call mobiles, these calls are significantly more expensive than calls to landlines. This is due to the way prison telecom systems route calls through secure networks and the additional charges associated with connecting to mobile networks.

Typical costs include:
- Mobile calls: up to 20–25p per minute
- Landline calls: considerably cheaper
- A 15-minute mobile call: up to £4

Over time, regular calls to mobiles can create a substantial financial burden for families.

When Can Prisoners Call Mobile Phones?

Phone access varies between prisons but is typically available during association periods, evenings, and weekends. Access may be limited depending on staffing levels, regime schedules, or disciplinary restrictions. Because phones are shared, calls may come at unpredictable times. Keeping your phone nearby during expected call hours can help ensure you don’t miss important contact.

What Happens If You Miss the Call?

If you miss a call, the prisoner will need to try again later when phone access is available and they have sufficient credit. Missed calls can reduce available call time and increase costs, which is why many families arrange expected call times where possible.

How to Reduce the Cost of Mobile Prison Calls

While mobile calls are allowed, they are not the most cost-effective option. Using a landline number significantly reduces call charges. If you do not have a landline, a virtual landline service allows calls to be routed to your mobile while being billed at the lower landline rate. This approach can dramatically reduce costs and make it easier to maintain regular contact.

The Most Common Reasons Mobile Calls May Not Come Through

If you are not receiving calls, the number may not yet be approved, the prisoner may not have enough phone credit, or phone access may be temporarily restricted. Lockdowns, regime changes, or high demand for shared phones can also affect call availability. Checking approval status and ensuring the prisoner has credit can help resolve most issues.

Mobile phones provide convenience and accessibility, which is why many families rely on them to receive calls. However, understanding the approval process and the cost differences between mobile and landline calls can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.If you are searching for whether prisoners can call mobile phones in the UK, the answer is yes, but switching to a landline-rate solution can make staying connected far more affordable.