booking visit online hmp gartree

https://gds.blog.gov.uk/2014/09/15/you-can-now-book-a-prison-visit-online/

You can now book a prison visit online

Booking a prison visit should be simple and straightforward. Until now that was far from the case. Booking a visit required both prisoner and visitor to jump through hoops: paper forms and drawn-out phone calls. And if the visit date turned out to be impossible, they had to start all over again.

Now you can book a visit online . It takes about 5 minutes. Before, picking an available date was pot luck. Now there's a date-picker that lets you select 3 possible slots instead of 1. It’s a straight-forward service with user-needs at its heart but, if you get stuck, you can call the prison's visits booking line and someone will help you with the booking.

Here's a very short film we've made about it:

By making it easier to book visits, prisoners will see more of their friends and family. Evidence suggests this will help their rehabilitation. Transformation isn't just about websites.

The service was built by the Ministry of Justice, with a combined team from the National Offender Management Service, HM Prison Service and MoJ Digital Services.

For more of the story behind this service, read Mike Bracken's account of his trip to HMP Rochester or check out the service’s transformation page .

Join the conversation on Twitter , and don't forget to sign up for email alerts .

You may also be interested in:

• Prison visit booking: using digital analytics to inform alpha development
• Making prison visits easier to book
• Meet the Transformation team

Sharing and comments

Share this page, 20 comments.

Comment by Pauline posted on 23 August 2015

How do you find out the prisoners number??? so you can go ahead with online booking of a visit?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 24 August 2015

You can find a prisoner using this service: https://www.gov.uk/find-prisoner However it will be the prisoner's responsibility to get in touch with you to let you know their prison number etc.

Comment by linda posted on 15 August 2015

This service does not appear to work this is day 2 trying to use it

Comment by Olivia posted on 30 July 2015

Hi, If a visit is booked and someone cant make it, is it possible to change the name of one of the people to someone else?

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 30 July 2015

It's best to contact the prison directly if this happens. You can find contact details here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder

Thanks, Louise

Comment by Paige posted on 28 July 2015

Hi my partner was sent to nottingham today, I was on his previous list 4 months ago for a visit. Will that still be on the system all will it have to he put through again if so how long does it take to be approved for a visit? Thanks Paige.

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 29 July 2015

You might want to get in touch with the prison first before booking a visit. You can find the contact details of the prison here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder

Comment by Debs posted on 27 July 2015

Hello Is there a list of prisons where online booking can't be used?

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 28 July 2015

According to the information on this page: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits , you can arrange a visit to any prison in England and Wales through this service. If you're visiting someone in Northern Ireland or Scotland you'll need to contact the prison directly.

This link also lists the type of visits that are not covered by the online service: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits so you need to get in touch with the prison directly.

Hope that's helpful.

Comment by c.steer posted on 26 July 2015

So how do I find the booking form to fill in I am new to computers

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 27 July 2015

Here's the link to the booking form: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits

You'll need this information to complete the form:

prisoner number prisoner’s date of birth dates of birth for all visitors coming with you make sure the person you’re visiting has added you to their visitor list

Hope that's useful.

Comment by Shawnaa posted on 09 May 2015

i have a visit booked which i did online but i do not have a visiting order woll the prison let me in?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 11 May 2015

Your identity will be checked on arrival to make sure you’re on the visitor list.

Comment by jessicca posted on 27 January 2015

What happens after you book the visit and its confirmed by email do you need the visiting order ?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 29 January 2015

The Visiting Order (VO) number is generated by the booking system, it is included in your confirmation email and you will need this to change or cancel a booking.

However, if you're visiting a prison the guidance is that you only need your ID, not the VO number. If when you visit the prison you are asked for the VO number you should report this via the Contact Us link on the Prison Visits Booking form.

I hope that helps.

Comment by Ilysa Mcnally posted on 18 November 2014

How late in advance can I book e.g. book a visit today (Tuesday) for the Sunday coming???

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 19 November 2014

Hi Ilysa. Thanks for your question. A visit needs to be booked 3 working days in advance. So in this case, the visit request would have to be no later than Tuesday to allow for a visit on Sunday.

Comment by carole posted on 23 October 2014

How far in advance can you book visits

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 23 October 2014

Hi Carole. You can book up to 28 days in advance. Thanks for your question.

Comment by kimberly posted on 16 August 2015

does anyone know how to cancel a visit online?

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Gartree Prison: Comprehensive Guide & Visiting Information

Gartree Prison: All You Need to Know This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about Gartree Prison, including visiting information, contact details, and the latest updates on life inside this UK prison.

Gartree Prison, located in Leicestershire, is one of the key high-security prisons in the UK. Originally opened in 1965, it has undergone significant changes and expansions to accommodate its current inmate population. This guide covers essential details for visitors, contact information, and insights into the daily life and operations within the facility.

About Gartree Prison

Gartree Prison is classified as a Category B prison, primarily housing male inmates serving long sentences, including life sentences. The prison is known for its strict security measures and its focus on rehabilitation and education programs aimed at reducing reoffending rates.

History and Development Opened in 1965, Gartree Prison has evolved over the decades. Initially designed to hold 324 inmates, it has expanded its capacity and facilities to meet the growing needs of the UK prison system. The prison now includes various educational and vocational training programs to help inmates develop skills that can aid in their reintegration into society.

Gartree Prison Contact Information

For those needing to get in touch with Gartree Prison, whether for visiting purposes or other inquiries, the following contact details are essential:

• Address: Gartree Prison, Gallow Field Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7RP
• Telephone: 01858 413234
• Email: [email protected]
• Directions: Gartree Prison is accessible via the A6, with clear signposts leading to the facility. Public transportation options include buses from nearby towns and a train service to Market Harborough, with taxi services available to complete the journey to the prison.
• Parking: There is ample parking available for visitors on site, with designated spaces for disabled visitors.

Gartree Prison Visiting Information and How to Book a Visit

Visiting a loved one in Gartree Prison involves several steps to ensure the safety and security of all involved. Here’s a detailed guide on how to book a visit and what to expect:

• Booking a Visit: Visits must be booked in advance. You can book a visit by calling the visits booking line at 01858 413234 or through the online booking system available on the official HM Prison Service website. Be prepared to provide the inmate’s name, prison number, and your details.
• Visiting Times: Visiting times vary, with sessions typically available on weekdays and weekends. It is advisable to check the latest visiting hours directly with the prison.
• Identification: All visitors must bring valid photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence, and proof of address.
• Security Check: Upon arrival, visitors will undergo a security check, which includes metal detector screening and personal belongings inspection. It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the visit to allow time for these procedures.
• Items Allowed: Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the prison. Lockers are available to store personal belongings during the visit. You can only bring cash if you plan to use the vending machines in the visiting area.
• Dress Code: There is a dress code in place to ensure respect and decency within the prison. Avoid wearing revealing or offensive clothing.

Life Inside Gartree Prison The daily life of inmates at Gartree Prison is structured around rehabilitation and education. The prison offers various programs designed to equip inmates with skills and qualifications that can help them reintegrate into society upon release.

• Educational Programs: Gartree Prison provides a range of educational opportunities, from basic literacy and numeracy to vocational training in areas such as carpentry, plumbing, and IT.
• Workshops and Employment: Inmates can participate in workshops that simulate real-world work environments, helping them gain practical experience and work ethics.
• Healthcare Services: Comprehensive healthcare services are available to all inmates, including mental health support and substance abuse programs.
• Recreation and Fitness: The prison includes recreational facilities such as a gym and sports areas to promote physical fitness and mental well-being.

Conclusion Gartree Prison remains a crucial part of the UK’s high-security prison network, focusing on both security and rehabilitation. Whether you are visiting a loved one or seeking information about the prison, understanding the procedures and facilities can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

How can I contact Gartree Prison for general inquiries? You can contact Gartree Prison by phone at 01858 413234 or email at [email protected] .

What are the visiting hours at Gartree Prison? Visiting hours vary. It’s best to check with the prison directly for the most current visiting times.

What should I bring when visiting Gartree Prison? Bring a valid photo ID and proof of address. Personal belongings should be left in lockers provided at the prison.

How do I book a visit to Gartree Prison? Visits can be booked by calling the visits booking line at 01858 413234 or through the online booking system on the HM Prison Service website.

What rehabilitation programs are available at Gartree Prison? Gartree Prison offers educational courses, vocational training, workshops, and comprehensive healthcare services aimed at rehabilitation and reducing reoffending rates.

For more detailed information on visiting procedures and what to expect, check out our guide on visiting a prisoner for the first time .

For additional insights into the UK’s prison system and updates on Gartree Prison, visit the wiki website . Read our other pages such as what is Gartree prison like.

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Hmp gartree.

• Inside Time Reports
• 13th December 2014
• East Midlands , Male Cat. B , Prison Visit

Prison information

Address: Gallows Field Road Market Harborough LE16 7RP Switchboard:  01858 426 600 Managed by: HMPPS Region: East Midlands Category:  Male Cat. B Link to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/gartree-prison

Description

Gartree is a male category ‘B’ main lifer centre and houses the largest group of life-sentenced prisoners in the UK. Prisoners are able to progress to category ‘C’ or ‘D’ conditions if applicable, while others move on to other category ‘B’ establishments to complete sentence planning targets.

Visit Booking: Online

Use this online service to book a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales you need the:

• prisoner number
• prisoner’s date of birth
• dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can book a visit.

You’ll get an email confirming your visit. It takes 1 to 3 days.

ID: Every visit Children’s Visits:

Acceptable forms of ID

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If you have any information that you would like to be included or see anything that needs updating, contact Gary Bultitude at  [email protected]

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3 thoughts on “ hmp gartree ”.

Can I use a provisional drivers license as id

Editorial Note: You can download a full list of acceptable ID from our website https://insidetime.org/download/factsheets/general_information/Visit_ID_PSI.pdf

I understand that the prison has recently introduced some new rules as regards the dress code for visitors. Is it true that we now have to wear long sleeves at all times and cannot wear shorts in summer? Please advise!

My partner said he’s been approved for a adults only visit on 2nd October, how do I find the details about this so I can go on it.

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Gartree Prison: Key Information and Visitor Guide

Welcome to the Gartree Prison information and visitor guide. Providing relevant details you need to understand about the institution, from history to visiting hours.

Gartree Prison is a Category B lifer prison, located in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. It is operated by Her Majesty’s Prison Service.

Here’s some key information about Gartree Prison:

• The establishment opened in 1965 as a Category C establishment and became a lifer prison in 1992.
• It currently houses life-sentence prisoners.
• The prison has had several high-profile inmates, including Charles Bronson, one of the UK’s most notorious prisoners.
• It’s well-known for the 1987 helicopter escape, in which two inmates escaped in broad daylight.

Visiting Hours and Rules:

Visits to Gartree Prison are permitted between 14:00 – 16:00 on weekdays, and 09:00 – 11:30 on weekends. However, there are some guidelines to follow:

• No cell phones or cameras are allowed.
• Visitors are required to carry valid identification.
• It’s advised to arrive 30 minutes prior to the visiting session for security check-ins.
• Visitors with a criminal record need to take prior permission from the prison authority.

The prison strives to maintain a secure and decent atmosphere. To achieve this, they encourage positive relationships between prisoners and their families and friends, promoting rehabilitation.

Facilities and Services:

Inside the Gartree Prison, various services and facilities are offered to the inmates:

• Health and wellness support, with access to mental health services and physical healthcare.
• Educational programs to help prisoners learn new skills and qualifications.
• Work opportunities to gain experience and build a work ethic.
• Spiritual services, including the availability of a multifaith chaplaincy team.

Moreover, support organizations work regularly at Gartree, assisting prisoners and their families with different matters, such as alcohol and drug addiction, maintaining relationships, or managing money.

The Past and The Present:

Over the past decades, Gartree Prison has seen many changes, responding to new policy directions and shifting drug trends. They are continually working on providing an environment that is secure, decent, rehabilitative, and promotes the education and self-improvement of inmates.

To this day, Gartree Prison remains one of the notable fixture in UK’s prison landscape. It is a symbol of the country’s commitment to maintaining law and order, and also its belief in rehabilitation and reformation.

We hope this guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of Gartree Prison. Stay informed and up to date with the UK prison systems here.

What is the cheapest way to call from Prison?

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HMP Gartree

Key contacts

Pact contact: Hannah Woods

Prison switchboard: 01858 426 600

Visitors’ Centre telephone: 01858 461 134

Email Pact: [email protected]  

Safer Custody line: 01858 426 886

Guidance for visitors

Visit the gov.uk page for information about:

• booking and planning your visit
• ID requirements
• help with the cost of prison visits
• sending money and property to a prisoner
• keeping in touch with a prison

HMP Gartree's Family & Visitors' Centre

Pact runs the Family & Visitors’ Centre at this prison, ensuring you a warm welcome when you visit.

Our team supports family members, friends and visitors. This includes emotional and practical support before and after your visit and additional reassurance if it is your first visit or you are particularly anxious about going through the gate.

We can also offer guidance and resources around:

• Travel and transport
• Financial assistance for prison visits
• Signposting to Pact services and other helpful organisations
• Supporting children and young people affected by imprisonment
• Raising concerns or making a complaint

Family engagement support

Your Family Engagement Manager is Hannah Woods

Email: [email protected]   

Contact number: 01858 461 134  

If your issue is complex and you need to talk to us in person, please include your number in the email and tell us that you would like a call back. It would also be helpful if you could let us know whether we are able to leave a message if there is no answer. We will aim to get back to you as soon as we possibly can.  

If you have urgent concerns about the welfare of your loved one in prison, please call the prison Safer Custody line directly.

Prisoners' Families Helpline 

You can contact the Prisoners’ Families Helpline for advice and support on all aspects of the criminal justice system.

Call freephone on 0808 808 2003

Open 9am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am – 3pm on weekends and bank holidays (exc. Christmas Day and Boxing Day) 

Email the team at [email protected] (please allow up to 3 days for a response)

The Prisoners’ Families Helpline website also offers a range of information on supporting your loved one in prison.

Make a comment or complaint 

We are committed to putting the people who use our services first. You can offer feedback on any of our services by speaking to a member of our team, submitting a feedback form online, or sending an email to [email protected] .

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We aim to provide prison healthcare that is at least as good as healthcare in the community.

We strive to make a positive impact on the lives of prisoners, improving their health, securing their wellbeing and reducing reoffending behaviour.

Accessing our services

You will be referred to the health service on reception at the prison. If you need to access services at a later stage you should approach a member of the healthcare team or prison staff.

Help in a crisis

Within the prison – contact a member of staff. Outside of prison – phone the switchboard. You can find each prison switchboard numbers using the links below.

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HMP Leicester Tel:  01162 283 000 Find out more about HMP Leicester

HMP Gartree Tel: 01858 426 600 Find out more about HMP Gartree

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• Filmography

Lifers (2012)

Every year in britain, more than 600 people commit murder. the majority of these killers will eventually be sent to gartree prison in leicester, which is home to europe’s largest population of life-sentenced prisoners..

A Cutting Edge documentary filmed over six months at HMP Gartree now provides an unprecedented insight into the lives of convicted killers facing a lifetime behind bars. These men will die in prison unless they can convince the authorities they have changed and are no longer a risk to society.

With unique access to Gartree’s cells, landings, segregation unit and visiting rooms, Lifers explores the everyday realities of prison life for those convicted of murder. The documentary examines the psychological impact of killing, following prisoners as they try to come to terms with what they’ve done, with varying degrees of remorse and contrition.

Unlike regular prisoners, lifers do not have a fixed release date – after serving a minimum term behind bars (set by the trial judge), they will only be set free if they can prove that they are no longer a danger to the public. Lifers explores the behavioural courses and psychological interventions that convicted killers are expected to undergo as part of their rehabilitation. The film follows this process through to the parole board, where a team of independent experts must make the difficult decision of whether a prisoner is safe to be released back into the public or must remain behind bars for the foreseeable future…

A Century Films production for Channel 4

1 x 60 minutes

Awards/Reviews

NOMINATED Best Documentary, Royal Television Society

NOMINATED Best Documentary, Grierson Awards

NOMINATED Best Documentary Programme, Broadcast Awards

"Five Stars. Fascinating." Time Out

"Chilling and Compelling." The Huffington Post

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Bedford Prison

Bedford Prison is a prison in the centre of Bedford for prisoners aged 18 and over.

Applies to England and Wales

Help us to improve this page. Give us your feedback in this 2-minute survey .

Book and plan your visit to Bedford prison

To visit someone in Bedford Prison you must:

• be on that person’s visitor list
• book your visit in advance (usually 2 working days notice)
• have the required ID with you when you go

Contact Bedford Prison if you have any questions about visiting.

Help with the cost of your visit

If you get certain benefits or have an NHS health certificate, you might be able to get help with the costs of your visit , including:

• travel to Bedford Prison
• somewhere to stay overnight

How to book family and friends visits

You can book your visit online or by telephone.

Telephone booking line: 0345 646 2277

Find out about call charges

The booking lines are open:

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 12pm to 5pm
• Tuesday and Thursday: 9am to 5pm

Visiting times:

• Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 2pm to 4pm

Email enquiries can be sent to [email protected]

How to book legal and professional visits

Opening times are Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays.

Morning visiting times are:

• 9:30am to 10:30am
• 10:45am to 11:45am

Afternoon visiting times are:

• 3:15pm to 4:15pm

Prison to Court Video Links (PCVLs)

Book by email: [email protected] Call: 01234 373 179 There is usually next day availability.

Legal/official visits

(Face to face)

Getting to Bedford Prison

Find Bedford Prison on a map

Bedford railway station is a 15-minute walk, or taxis are available at the station. The bus station is a 3-minute walk.

To plan your journey by public transport:

• use National Rail Enquiries
• use Traveline for local bus times

There is no visitor car parking available at Bedford Prison. There are car parks in the town centre a short walk away.

There is disabled access to the visitors centre and the prison. If possible, please let staff know of any additional needs before you arrive.

Entering Bedford Prison

All visitors, aged 16 or older must prove their identity before entering the prison. Read the list of acceptable forms of ID for all visitors. .

All visitors must prove their identity. All adult visitors (18 and above) must prove their identity, with a government issued photo ID before entering prison. Regarding children, a birth certificate or red book is permitted.

Read the list of acceptable forms of ID for all visitors.

There are strict controls on what you can take into Bedford Prison. You will have to leave most of the things you have with you in a locker (you need a £1 coin). This includes pushchairs and car seats. Visitors must arrive at the visitor centre to use the lockers. The visits centre is the blue door to the left of the main gate.

You are then expected to check in at the main gate with your ID. Once inside the gate area you will be searched by a member of staff. There will also be a sniffer dog. You will be asked again if you’re carrying any unauthorised articles before you enter the visits hall.

Visitors should dress sensibly. You may be turned away if you are wearing items like vests, low-cut tops, high-cut shorts or dresses, or clothing with offensive slogans.

You will be told the rules when booking and by an officer at the start of your visit. If you break the rules, your visit could be cancelled, and you could be banned from visiting again.

Visiting facilities

The tea bar is open where a selection of basic drinks and snacks will be available. It is £10 per adult and £5 per child to spend in each session. You will have to bring this in coins only and in clear plastic bags.

The play area in the visitor centre is now open.

Keep in touch with someone at Bedford Prison

You may not be able to speak with someone at Bedford Prison during their first few days. This is because it can take up to 5 days to approve who they can be in touch with.

Prisoners do not have phones in their cells so they will always need to call you rather than you call them.

Secure video calls

To have a secure video call with someone in this prison you need to:

• Download the Prison Video app
• Create an account
• Register all visitors
• Add the prisoner to your contact list.

How to book a secure video call

Secure video calls at this prison can be requested by prisoners only.

You will receive a notification if a prisoner has requested a video call with you.

Read more about how it works

Phone calls

Prisoners can phone anyone named on their list of friends and family. This list is checked by the public protection team.

You can also exchange voicemails using the Prison Voicemail service .

Authorised officers may listen to phone calls as a way of preventing crime and helping keep people safe.

You can send emails to someone in Bedford Prison using the Email a Prisoner service .

You might also be able to attach photos and receive replies, depending on the rules at Bedford Prison.

Include the person’s full name and prisoner number (if you have it) on the envelope.

All post apart from legal letters will be opened and checked by officers.

Send money and gifts

You can use the free and fast online service to send money to someone in prison .

You can no longer send money by bank transfer, cheque, postal order or send cash by post.

If you cannot use the online service, you may be able to apply for an exemption - for example if you:

• are unable to use a computer, a smart phone or the internet
• do not have a debit card

This will allow you to send money by post.

Gifts and parcels

Prisoners at Bedford prison can buy permitted items from approved online retailers.

For other requests, contact Bedford Prison for more information on what’s allowed.

If approved, make sure to include the person’s name and prisoner number on the parcel.

All parcels will be opened and checked by officers.

Friends and families of prisoners are permitted to send books directly to their loved ones, or can order books from approved retailers, which can source and send the books on to prisoners.   For the full list of approved retailers, you can read the HMPPS Incentives Policy, Annex F .

Life at Bedford Prison

Bedford Prison is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where prisoners can learn new skills to help them on release.

Security and safeguarding

Every prisoner at Bedford Prison has a right to feel safe. The staff are responsible for their safeguarding and welfare at all times.

For further information about what to do when you are worried or concerned about someone in prison visit the Prisoners’ Families helpline website .

Arrival and first night

When a prisoner first arrives at Bedford, they will be able to contact a family member by phone. This could be quite late in the evening, depending on the time they arrive.

They will get to speak to someone who will check how they’re feeling and ask about any immediate health and wellbeing needs.

Each prisoner who arrives at Bedford Prison gets an induction that lasts about 2 days. They will meet professionals who will help them with:

• health and wellbeing, including mental and sexual health
• any substance misuse issues, including drugs and alcohol
• personal development in custody and on release, including skills, education and training
• other support (sometimes called ‘interventions’), such as managing difficult emotions

Everyone also finds out about the rules, fire safety, and how things like calls and visits work.

Accommodation

About 500 prisoners are at Bedford Prison.

Education and work

Prisoners have access to a range of work, training and education opportunities including:

• industrial cleaning
• painting and decorating
• independent living skills
• production workshops
• physical education qualifications

They can also get help and support on issues such as health and wellbeing, substance misuse, housing, debt and family relationships in preparation for release.

Support for family and friends

Bedford works with G4S . It is based in the visitors centre. It provides support and information to help you access available services.

Find out about advice and helplines for family and friends .

Concerns, problems and complaints

In an emergency.

Call 01234 373 000 if you think a prisoner is at immediate risk of harm. Ask for the Orderly Officer and explain that your concern is an emergency.

Inspection reports

HM Prison and Probation Service publishes action plans for Bedford Prison in response to independent inspections.

Contact Bedford Prison

Governor: Sarah Bott

Telephone: 01234 373 000 Fax: 01234 273 568

HMP Bedford St Loyes Bedford MK40 1HG

Updates to this page

Updated visits booking line number

Updated visiting guidance based on 1 April COVID rule changes

Added link to new safer custody information under Security and safeguarding.

Updated visiting information: Testing for visitors aged 12 and over.

Updated physical contact guidance

Added visiting times and booking information.

Clarification on the rules for sending in books, under the 'Gifts and parcels' section

Prison has resumed visits for family, friends and significant others. We will update this page with specific visiting information as soon as possible.

Covid update

Updated visit info

Updated visiting information in line with new local restriction tiers.

Updated visiting information in line with new national restrictions in England.

Updated visiting information in line with coronavirus restrictions.

Visits information updated

First published.

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