Low-Cost Ways to Stay in Touch

Here, we share some practical, low-cost ways to stay in touch with your loved one while they are in prison.

1. Writing Letters

One of the most affordable and personal ways to stay in contact is through letters. Prisoners often cherish receiving mail, as it helps them feel connected to the outside world.

• Why it’s a good option: Writing letters is a low cost option which allows for thoughtful, meaningful communication. Letters can be sent at any time and are not restricted to specific times.
• Top tip: Make sure you write the person’s prisoner number on the envelope.

2. Email

It is not possible to email prisoners directly but you can use a service called Email-a-Prisoner which can be a cheaper alternative to phone calls or traditional post.

• Why it’s a good option: Email-a-Prisoner is faster than traditional mail and less expensive than phone calls. In some prisons, prisoners can also reply and attach a photo.
• Top tip: Check if the prison where your loved one is located offers this service by visiting Email-a-Prisoner. If you are paying for this service by debit/credit card you will need to make a minimum payment of £5 but if you wish to add less than £5 or you are not able to use a debit/credit card to add a credit to your account you can do so by sending a cheque or postal order in the post.

3. Prison Voicemail

Prison Voicemail is an HMPPS approved service which enables family members to send and receive voice messages and have live conversation all though one app.

• Why it’s a good option: It rebalances communications by enabling you to initiate contact, sharing thoughts and feelings as they happen, rather than waiting until the next time the prisoner calls. Voice messages are instantly available to the prisoner the next time they dial their Prison Voicemail number and the call costs them the price of a normal landline call. The prisoner is also able to make direct calls to your mobile through the app but at a landline rate.
• Top tip: Prison Voicemail works best if prisoners get into the habit of checking for messages regularly. They do not get charged if they have no message waiting, so can check as often as they like.

4. Video Calls

Across prisons in England and Wales you can now receive a secure video call from your loved one, which can be a comforting alternative to regular phone calls.

• Why it’s a good option: Video calls are often more affordable than in-person visits, and they enable family who cannot attend in-person visits for financial or health reasons to have face-to-face contact.
• Top tip: There are two apps that are used so make sure you check which app is used at the prison your loved one is being held. Video calls must take place in a private place and the room must be well-lit to ensure the system can recognise faces.

5. National Prison Radio

National Prison Radio broadcasts into prison cells across England and Wales 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Family and Friends Request Show uses music to keep people in touch with loved ones. You can record a voice message or compose a written message to go with your song choice to encourage your loved one and remind them you are thinking of them.

• Why it’s a good option: This option is completely free and comes with the bonus of being able to share a song that is meaningful to you both.
• Top tip: You will need to have permission from the person to whom you are dedicating a song, to supply their details to National Prison Radio, prior to submitting a song request so make sure you have had this discussion with your loved one beforehand.

Request a song at https://prison.radio/national-prison-radio/

6. Sending in photos

Sending in photos of your family can be a great way to stay in touch but be aware that some prisons do not allow the prisoner to feature in the photos you send and some prisoners may not be allowed to receive images of children due to their offence type. Photographs of an explicit or pornographic nature are also not permitted.

• Why it’s a good option: By utilising apps such as Free Prints, this is a low cost option which enables you to share significant family milestones and moments with your loved one
• Top tip: check the number and size of photos that are permitted to be sent in. This can vary by prison.

Final Thoughts

Staying in touch with a loved one in prison doesn’t have to break the bank. By exploring these low-cost options, you can continue to maintain a strong, supportive connection without adding financial stress.
If you’re unsure about the best way to stay in touch or need help with accessing support services, POPS is here for you. We can provide advice, offer support, and help you navigate the different options available to families.