How To Deal With Unwanted Contact From A Prisoner

How to Deal with Unwanted Contact from a UK Prisoner: A Comprehensive GuideIntroduction: Understanding and Responding to Unwanted ContactReceiving unwanted contact from a prisoner can be a deeply unsettling and distressing experience. Whether it's a series of persistent phone calls, unsolicited letters, or messages sent through a third party, such contact can feel invasive and threatening, disrupting your peace of mind and sense of safety. This issue is more common than many people realise, and it is crucial for anyone in this situation to know that they are not alone and that there are clear, effective measures they can take to stop it. This guide provides a detailed and empathetic framework for understanding, documenting, and ultimately stopping unwanted contact from an individual in a UK prison. It delves into the official procedures, legal protections, and vital support systems available, empowering you to regain control and security.

The reasons behind unwanted contact can be varied and complex. It could stem from a previous relationship, a known acquaintance, or even a complete stranger who has obtained your contact details. The motivations can range from harassment and intimidation to manipulative attempts to control or simply a lack of understanding of boundaries. Regardless of the reason, the impact on the recipient is what matters most. It can lead to anxiety, fear, and a pervasive feeling of being watched, even from a distance. Therefore, taking decisive action is not just about stopping the communication; it is about protecting your mental and emotional well-being.

Navigating the UK's prison system to resolve this issue can seem daunting. The rules and procedures are not always transparent to the public, and it is easy to feel powerless. However, the system has mechanisms in place to address and prevent this very type of behaviour. The key is to know who to contact, what information to provide, and how to follow the correct process. This article will guide you through each step, providing the knowledge you need to handle this challenging situation effectively and with confidence.

The Immediate Steps

The first and most critical step when you receive unwanted contact from a prisoner is to cease all communication immediately. Do not respond to letters, do not answer calls, and do not engage with any messages sent through other people. Engaging with the contact, even to tell the person to stop, can be misinterpreted as a form of communication and may even encourage further attempts. The principle is simple: a complete lack of response sends a clear message that the contact is unwelcome and will not be acknowledged.

If the contact is by phone, the easiest and most effective measure is to block the number. The vast majority of calls from a UK prison will show as an unlisted or withheld number on your phone. However, if the prisoner is using a service that forwards the call to a landline or mobile, the number may appear. In such cases, blocking the specific number is the immediate course of action. If the calls continue from different numbers, you must be persistent in blocking each one. It is also advisable to inform close friends and family about the situation, so they are aware and can avoid inadvertently passing on messages or information.

For unwanted letters, the response is equally straightforward. Do not open or read the letters. Simply return them to the sender, marking the envelope clearly with "Return to Sender: Unwanted Mail." If the contact is sent through a third party, such as a mutual acquaintance, you must make it clear to that person that you do not wish to receive any messages from the prisoner. Be firm in your request and do not hesitate to cut off contact with the third party if they fail to respect your wishes. The goal is to create a wall of non-engagement that makes it impossible for the prisoner's message to reach you.

It is absolutely essential to start a log of all unwanted contact. This log should be meticulous and detailed, and it will be your most important tool in taking formal action. Record the date and time of every phone call, the number that appeared (if any), and the content of the message if you answered by mistake. For letters, note the date you received it and keep the unopened envelope as evidence. This documented evidence will be invaluable when you officially report the matter to the prison authorities.

The Official Channels

The UK prison system has a formal process for handling complaints of unwanted contact. The first and most direct route is to contact the prison governor's office directly. You will need to write a formal letter outlining your situation. This letter should be a factual account of the unwanted contact, detailing the dates, times, and types of communication you have received. You must state clearly that you have no wish to receive any further contact and that you are seeking their intervention to stop it.

In your letter to the prison governor, you must include as much information as you can about the prisoner, including their full name and, if known, their date of birth and prison number. This information is crucial for the prison to identify the correct individual in their system. You should also explicitly state that you wish to be added to the prisoner's list of 'blocked numbers' and 'blocked addresses'. This is a formal request that the prison is legally required to take seriously. It is a vital step in ensuring no further communication can be sent to you through the official channels.

The prison has a duty of care to ensure that prisoners do not use communication facilities to harass or intimidate individuals on the outside. All phone calls and letters are subject to monitoring and checks, and a formal complaint from a member of the public gives the prison the authority to take action. This action can range from a formal warning to the prisoner to the removal of their communication privileges. In more serious cases, it could also be considered a breach of prison rules, which could lead to further sanctions.

For highly sensitive or threatening cases, you should also consider contacting the police. While the police may not be able to act on every instance of unwanted contact, especially if it is not overtly threatening, they can officially log your complaint. This creates a police record of the harassment, which can be a valuable asset if the situation escalates or if you need to take legal action later. It is a good idea to inform the police and the prison at the same time, as this can lead to a more coordinated response.

Legal Protections and Broader Context

The act of sending unwanted contact can, in certain circumstances, constitute a criminal offence under UK law. The most relevant legislation is the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. Harassment is defined as a course of conduct that causes a person alarm or distress. A 'course of conduct' is generally considered to be two or more incidents. If the unwanted contact from the prisoner is persistent and causing you distress, it may fall under this legal definition.In such cases, you can take legal advice from a solicitor. While this may seem like a drastic step, it provides a powerful legal framework for stopping the harassment. A solicitor can help you draft a formal cease and desist letter, which carries more weight than a letter from an individual. In extreme cases, they can also help you pursue a civil injunction or, in partnership with the police, support a criminal prosecution.

It is also important to understand the broader context of prison communications. Prisoners are given access to phones and mail as a part of their human rights and for rehabilitative purposes. These tools are meant to help them maintain positive family relationships and prepare for re-entry into society. However, this privilege comes with strict rules. The prison service has a mandate to monitor all communications, with some exceptions for legal correspondence. If a prisoner is found to be abusing these privileges to harass or intimidate, the prison governor has the authority to revoke them. Your complaint provides the crucial evidence they need to take this action.In addition to the official channels, there are services that are specifically designed to help block communication. For example, some phone companies have services that allow you to block all calls from withheld or unlisted numbers. Similarly, if you are receiving unwanted mail to a shared address, you can notify the Royal Mail of a specific address from which you no longer wish to receive correspondence. These are practical, everyday steps that can add an extra layer of protection and control.

The Psychological Impact and Seeking Support

The emotional and psychological impact of unwanted contact from a prisoner can be significant and should not be underestimated. The constant intrusion can lead to feelings of fear, anxiety, and a sense of vulnerability. It can make you feel as though your private space has been violated, even if the person is miles away behind prison walls. These feelings are valid, and it is crucial to acknowledge them and seek support.

Reaching out to a support organisation is a vital step in dealing with this situation. The Prisoners' Families Helpline is a confidential service that can provide emotional support and practical advice. While they primarily support families of prisoners, they also have a deep understanding of the prison system and the challenges it presents. They can offer a listening ear and help you navigate the official complaint process.

Additionally, speaking to a counsellor or a therapist can be immensely helpful. A professional can provide a safe space to process your feelings and develop coping strategies. They can help you address the underlying stress and anxiety caused by the unwanted contact, empowering you to feel more in control of your life.

It is also a good idea to lean on your personal support network. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about what you are going through. Sharing your burden can reduce feelings of isolation and help you feel more secure. Remember, this is not a situation you have to face alone.

Maintaining Safety and Digital Security

In some cases, unwanted contact can escalate or move to different platforms. While a prisoner’s access to the internet is severely restricted, they may be able to use third parties to send messages on social media or other platforms. It is therefore crucial to review and strengthen your digital security.

Check your privacy settings on all social media accounts. Ensure that only friends or people you trust can see your profile and send you messages. Block any accounts that you believe are associated with the prisoner or their associates. Be cautious about who you accept friend requests from and be mindful of the information you share publicly.

Review your contact information online. If you have a personal website or an online profile, consider removing or privatising your email address and phone number. This can help prevent your details from being obtained and passed on by a third party.

What If Contact Continues?

If the inmate continues trying to reach you, whether through phone calls or other unauthoried means, it's important to take further action. Report any continued contact to the authorities. They can expand their response and investigate whether illegal methods, such as the use of contraband phones, are being used to circumvent the non-contact provisions. Continued attempts to make contact despite the block could also be grounds for further legal action.

In conclusion, dealing with unwanted contact from a UK prisoner requires a methodical and determined approach. By immediately ceasing all engagement, meticulously documenting every instance of contact, and formally reporting the matter to the prison authorities and the police, you can take effective action to stop the harassment. Remember to leverage legal protections and to seek support from charities and professionals. Your safety and peace of mind are paramount, and you have every right to take the necessary steps to secure them.