Booking a Visit
We understand that visiting a loved one in prison can come with a mixture of emotions and practical challenges. Our aim is to provide clear, supportive guidance to help make the process as smooth as possible. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about booking a visit, including eligibility, the process, and what to expect.
How to Book a Visit
Anyone wishing to attend a visit will need to be on the prisoner’s approved visitor list and have a valid form of identification.
You can book a prison visit in England and Wales online, by phone, or via email. The process varies slightly depending on the prison, so it’s always best to check specific details with the facility where your loved one is held.
- Online Booking: Most prisons use the Government’s online booking system. You’ll need details including the prisoner’s name, date of birth, and prisoner number.
- By Phone or Email: If online booking isn’t available, you can contact the prison’s visits booking team directly. Contact details for the prison’s where POPS delivers support services can be found on this website – all other prison contact details can be found on www.gov.uk .
- Prisoner-led application: Some prisons require visits to be booked by the prisoner. It is worth discussing with your loved one when might be convenient for you in advance of them making a booking.
Visits must be booked in advance, and availability depends on the prison’s schedule. It’s a good idea to plan ahead, especially during busy periods such as holidays.
If you do not have the prisoner’s location, you can use the ‘Find a prisoner’ service. However, it is important to be aware that the process of finding a prisoner and gaining their consent to share their information can take time.
Who Can Visit?
To visit someone in prison, you must be on their approved visitor list. This is managed by the prison, and your loved one will need to add your name before you can book a visit. All adults will need to provide photographic identification on arrival to prove their identity.
There is a limit on the number of visitors who can attend each visit – this varies by prison so please make sure you check in advance. This information can be found on the prison information page of the prison you’re visiting. Children and babies can visit a prison, providing there are no public protection orders in place. Children must always be accompanied by an individual over the age of 18.
What to Bring
On the day of your visit, you will go through security checks before entering the visits hall. Be sure to bring:
- A valid form of ID (such as a passport or driving licence)
Other combinations of ID documents may be accepted by the prison if you don’t have access to a passport or driving license. Visit the gov.uk website to view a list of acceptable forms of ID which includes a UK CitizensCard, a cheaper form of photographic ID.
- Your visit confirmation (if required by the prison)
Most prisons have strict rules about what you can bring. Items like mobile phones, smart watches and large bags are not allowed inside. Some facilities provide lockers for storage, but it’s best to travel light. Most prisons will allow you to take in some cash to purchase refreshments, locker keys (if used), essential medications and some baby care items. As each prison has different rules, please ensure you are aware of the prison’s specific visiting rules, including dress codes and prohibited items.
How often you can visit someone in prison
A convicted prisoner is usually allowed a minimum of two 1-hour visits every 4 weeks. A prisoner on remand (waiting for their trial) is allowed three 1-hour visits a week. This can change depending on the incentive level assigned to the prisoner which is linked to their behaviour in the prison.
Special Considerations for Children and Families
Visiting a loved one in prison can be challenging, especially for children. Many prisons have family-friendly visiting sessions called Family Days. These extended visits are not available as frequently as social visits but have a range of activities designed to make the experience more positive for children. At some sites there are also specific neurodivergent Family Days to enable visits by individuals who may struggle with the busier social visits environment. POPS’ mascot, Popsicle the penguin, is also present in various formats at the prisons where we are based to help guide children through the visits process.
If you have access needs, please contact the POPS’ family support staff at the prison you intend to visit for information and support.
Need More Help?
If you have any questions or concerns about booking a visit, don’t hesitate to reach out. Many prisons have visitor information lines, and our prison-based family support staff are here to offer advice and support. You’re not alone—we’re here to help make the process as stress-free as possible.
