First-time Families
Supporting a loved one through a prison sentence for the first time can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone.
I’m going on my first prison visit
What to Expect on the Day
Arriving at the prison for the first time can feel intimidating but knowing what to expect can ease your concerns.
Travel and Parking:
Many prisons are situated in rural locations meaning that journeys by public transport can take time. Regardless of how you travel please ensure you have left enough time to complete your journey in advance of your booked visit. There is very little flexibility around visit timings and arriving late may mean you are unable to enter the prison on this occasion. The availability of parking varies by prison so make sure you are aware of alternative parking locations before your arrival to avoid the stress of not being able to find a parking space.
Dress Code:
Most prisons have a dress code. Visitors should ensure they are aware of the specific dress code for the prison they are visiting and abide by it when on a visit. Generally, this involves not wearing revealing clothing or items with offensive logos or text. Visitors not dressed appropriately may be turned away from a visit. Our staff will endeavour to assist but we do not always have alternative clothing on site.
Security Checks:
All visitors go through a security screening which will vary depending on the security level of the prison you are visiting. Security procedures may include a pat down search, a “wand search” (a handheld metal detector used to scan a person’s body for metal objects), the removal of some items of clothing such as belts or shoes, and sometimes the presence of sniffer dogs. Removed or loose items such as cash and keys may be required to pass through an x-ray machine. Religious headwear, such as turbans, yarmulkes, and hijabs, can be subject to searches when visiting a prison but these searches should be conducted respectfully in a private area and by a member of your own sex.
Identification:
The national guidance is that all visitors to prisons in England and Wales, other than accompanied children under the age of 16, are required to prove their identity before entry by producing a valid ID document, such as a valid passport or driving license. As a result at most prisons visitors under the age of 16 accompanied by an adult now no longer require ID but instead are vouched for by their accompanying adult who must adhere to the ID requirements and give assurances of the child’s identity and relationship to the prisoner. However local governor discretion means this is not always the case and that ID documents may be required for children under 16 at the prison you are visiting. It is a good idea to check beforehand to avoid disappointment on arrival at the prison. A list of valid ID documents can be found on the gov.uk website.
Personal Belongings:
There are only a few items that you can take in on a prison visit. Items like mobile phones, smart watches and bags are not allowed inside. Some prisons provide lockers for storage which may require a pound coin. Most prisons allow a small amount of cash to be taken in to purchase refreshments and you may also be allowed to take in a locker key (where required), essential medication and some basic baby care items. More detailed information about what can be taken into each of the prisons where POPS is based can be found on our individual prison pages.
Access:
Prisons are required to make reasonable adjustments for visitors with disabilities. This includes providing accessible parking, entrances, and other facilities. If you have any concerns about access into or within the prison environment please speak to the POPS’ Family Engagement Worker at the site you are visiting who will be able to talk you through the facilities available to you on your visit.
Further Information
We have collated lots of additional information to help support you and your loved one. In this section you will find information that is generic to most prisons. To find out more about the prison you are visiting visit the individual prison’s page.