How To Book A
Prison Visit

Maintaining contact with a loved one who is in a UK prison is a fundamental part of supporting them through their sentence. It is a lifeline for both the individual inside and their family and friends on the outside, helping to preserve relationships, reduce re-offending rates, and provide a sense of continuity and hope. However, the process of booking a prison visit can seem complex and daunting, riddled with regulations, procedures, and different systems depending on where the prison is located. This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify the entire process, walking you through every step from the initial planning to what to expect on the day. We will explore the different types of visits available, the crucial documentation you need, and the financial support that can help make these connections possible.

The importance of a prison visit extends far beyond a simple conversation. It offers a tangible, human connection that cannot be replicated by a phone call or a letter. For the prisoner, it can be a vital motivator, a reminder of the life waiting for them beyond the prison walls, and a powerful antidote to the isolation that can define life in custody. For the family, it provides reassurance about their loved one's well-being and a chance to offer direct, face-to-face support. Understanding the system is the first step towards ensuring these connections can be made as smoothly as possible. While the rules are in place for security and safety, navigating them successfully is key to maintaining a strong and supportive relationship.

Getting on the Approved Visitor List

Before you can even consider booking a visit, the prisoner you wish to see must add you to their official visitor list. This is the single most important prerequisite. The prison service, for security and data protection reasons, will not acknowledge a visit request for someone who is not on this list. It is the prisoner’s responsibility to submit a list of their approved family and friends to the prison authorities.

When a person first enters a prison, they go through an induction period during which they are given a form to list the people they would like to have visit them. They must provide the full name, date of birth, and address of each potential visitor. The prison then conducts security checks on these individuals. This process can take some time, and you should be prepared for a delay of several days, or even weeks, especially at busier institutions. Once you have been approved, the prisoner will be notified, and they can then inform you that you are on their list. Only at this point can you proceed with booking a visit. It is a good idea to confirm with your loved one that this step has been completed before you attempt to book.

This initial process can be a source of frustration, as it can be difficult to get clear information. The best advice is to be patient and to encourage your loved one to be proactive in submitting the list as early as possible.

The Booking Process

The method of booking a prison visit varies significantly across the UK. It is not a one-size-fits-all system, and understanding the regional differences is crucial.

‍England and Wales:
‍In England and Wales, the primary method for booking a social visit is through the official GOV.UK website. The "Visit Someone in Prison" service is a user-friendly online portal designed to simplify the process. To use this service, you will need the following information:
- The prisoner's full name and their date of birth.
- Their unique prison number.
- Your own date of birth and the dates of birth for all other visitors in your party.

The service will then guide you to the correct prison's booking page, where you can check available dates and times. Once you have submitted your request, the prison will send you an email confirmation, usually within a few days, detailing the date and time of your visit. It is essential to receive this confirmation before you travel to the prison. While the online system is the preferred method, most prisons also have a dedicated telephone booking line. This can be a useful alternative, especially if you have complex circumstances or questions that the online system cannot answer. Be prepared for potentially long waiting times when calling, however, as these lines can be very busy.

‍Scotland:
‍The system in Scotland operates on a different principle. In almost every Scottish prison, it is the responsibility of the convicted prisoner to book the visit and then inform their family or friends of the date and time. This puts the onus on the person in custody to manage the process. While this may seem counterintuitive, it is part of a broader approach that seeks to empower prisoners and give them a role in maintaining family ties. For those on remand (awaiting trial), the visitor may be able to book the visit directly by calling a dedicated booking line, but their name must still be on a visit sheet completed by the prisoner. The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) website provides detailed information for each specific prison, and it is always a good idea to check this for the most up-to-date procedures.

‍Northern Ireland:
‍In Northern Ireland, the system is managed by the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS). Booking procedures vary slightly between the prisons (HMP Maghaberry, HMP Magilligan, and Hydebank Wood). The best way to get accurate information is to contact the specific prison's visitor centre directly. Organisations like NIACRO also run visitor centres that provide practical and emotional support, as well as advice on booking visits. They can be an invaluable first point of contact for anyone navigating the system for the first time.

The Different Options

Beyond the standard in-person social visit, there are other types of visits and communication options you may be able to explore. Understanding these can help you choose the best way to stay in touch.

‍In-Person Social Visits:
‍This is the most common type of visit, typically lasting for one hour. For convicted prisoners, they are generally entitled to at least two visits every four weeks. Prisoners on remand, due to their different legal status, are often allowed more frequent visits, sometimes up to three per week. The number of adults allowed in a single visit is usually limited to three, though this can vary by prison. There are generally no restrictions on the number of children who can attend with the adults. These visits take place in a communal visits hall, and while physical contact is limited, a brief hug at the beginning and end of the visit is usually permitted.

‍Video Calls (Virtual Visits):
‍In recent years, many prisons have introduced secure video calls as a means of communication, especially as an alternative for families who live far away. These virtual visits are conducted through a secure platform, and you will need a device with a camera and a stable internet connection. To apply for a video call, you must already be on the approved visitor list. The process for booking is similar to an in-person visit, and you will still be required to provide identification and have your identity verified. This option is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or for families who would incur significant travel costs.

‍Special and Closed Visits:
‍In certain circumstances, a visit may be designated as a 'closed visit'. This means that the prisoner and visitor are separated by a glass partition, and no physical contact is permitted. Closed visits are usually imposed by the prison governor if there is a security concern, such as a risk of contraband being passed, or as a sanction for the prisoner. While it can be a disappointing experience, it is a way to maintain contact even under strict conditions. Additionally, some prisons offer special visits, such as 'Family Days,' which are designed to create a more relaxed environment for prisoners and their children. These are organised by the prison and must be booked in advance.

Booking and attending a prison visit in the UK requires meticulous planning and a firm understanding of the rules. By getting on the approved list, using the correct booking channels for your region, preparing your documentation, and understanding the financial support available, you can ensure that these crucial connections are maintained. While the process may be challenging, the profound importance of a prison visit for both the visitor and the person in custody makes it a worthwhile effort.