Keeping in touch with family and friends is one of the most important things for anyone serving a prison sentence. Phone calls are a lifeline, but they come at a cost. Here's what you need to know about how much prison calls actually cost in the UK and how the system works.
Current Prison Phone Call Rates
Prison phone call rates have been a contentious issue for years, but they've come down significantly following government intervention. As of 2025/2026, calls from prison phones in England and Wales cost:
These rates apply to the BT-operated phone system used across most prisons in England and Wales. It's worth noting that rates can change, so check the current tariff displayed near the phones on your wing.
How the Prison Phone System Works
Every prisoner is given a PIN number linked to their phone account. Money needs to be in the phone account before calls can be made. There are several ways to fund the account:
To make a call, you dial your PIN, then the number you want to reach. All numbers must be pre-approved and added to your contacts list (usually up to 20 numbers). The prisoner requests this through their personal officer or via an application form.
In-Cell Telephony
An increasing number of prisons now have in-cell telephones. This means prisoners can make calls from the privacy of their own cell rather than queuing for wing phones. Prisons with in-cell phones include many newer establishments and some that have been retrofitted.
The advantages of in-cell phones include more privacy, no queuing, and the ability to call at more convenient times (typically between 7:00 and 21:00). Call rates are the same as wing phones.
Video Calls in Prison
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many prisons introduced video calling services using platforms like Purple Visits. These have largely been retained and offer an alternative way to keep in touch. Video calls typically cost around £1–£2 per session and last 20–30 minutes.
How Family Can Help With Phone Costs
Family and friends can send money to the prisoner's account, which can then be used for phone calls. Methods include:
Phone Calls in Scottish Prisons
The Scottish Prison Service operates its own phone system. Rates are broadly similar to England and Wales, and in-cell phones are available in newer establishments like HMP Grampian and HMP Low Moss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can prisoners receive incoming calls?
No, prisoners cannot receive incoming calls. They can only make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers.
How many numbers can a prisoner call?
Most prisons allow up to 20 pre-approved numbers on a prisoner's phone list. Adding or changing numbers requires an application.
Are prison phone calls recorded?
Yes, all prison phone calls are recorded and monitored. Calls to legal advisers are not routinely monitored, but they are still recorded. Prisoners are reminded of this before each call.
Can prisoners call mobile phones?
Yes, prisoners can call mobile phones. Mobile call rates are higher than landline rates but have reduced significantly in recent years.
How long can a prison phone call last?
Most prisons set a maximum call duration, typically around 10-15 minutes per call when using wing phones. In-cell phones may allow longer calls depending on the establishment.