Preparation for Custody: Understanding Property Rules
When you are facing a custodial sentence in the United Kingdom, the uncertainty of what happens at the 'reception' gate is often the greatest source of anxiety. One of the most common questions asked by legal professionals and families is: "what to take into prison?"
In the UK, the prison system is governed by strict property rules designed to maintain security, order, and hygiene. Each establishment may have slight variations based on its security category (Category A through D), but the core principles remain the same. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the items you can typically bring, what will be confiscated, and how to manage your property once you are processed.
The Reception Process and Your 'Volumetric' Limit
When you first arrive at a prison, you will go through a process called 'Reception'. During this time, your personal belongings will be searched and logged on a property record. You will not be allowed to keep everything you bring with you.
Property in UK prisons is managed under the 'Volumetric Control' rule. This means that, generally, all your personal possessions must fit into two standard-sized property boxes. If you arrive with suitcases full of clothes, the vast majority will be taken from you, put into 'stored property', and kept in a secure warehouse until your release.
It is important to note that you can find more information about the daily routine and environment in our guide on what prison is like.
Essential Items: What You Should Bring
If you are surrendered at court or attending a voluntary surrender, you should arrive with a small bag containing the following essentials.
1. Cash (Small Amount)
While cash is considered contraband once you are on the wing, you should bring a small amount (around £20-£50) to reception. This money will be taken and credited to your 'Private Account'. This allows you to buy phone credit or items from the 'canteen' (the prison shop) in your first week. Without this, you may have to wait until your first pay packet from a prison job to make a phone call.
2. Legal Documents and Paperwork
Keep a folder with your legal papers, including contact details for your solicitor. You are legally entitled to keep your legal correspondence in your cell. Having a list of important phone numbers (family, legal, medical) written down on paper is vital, as your mobile phone will be seized immediately.
3. Comfortable Clothing
Most prisons require you to wear a prison uniform (usually grey joggers and a sweatshirt) during the 'induction' phase. However, many prisons (particularly lower security ones) allow you to wear your own clothes. Even if you are required to wear a uniform, you are usually allowed your own underwear and socks.
* **Underwear:** 7-10 sets.
* **Socks:** 7-10 pairs.
* **Trainers:** One pair of comfortable trainers (no metal shanks or excessive cushioning that could hide items).
* **Simple T-shirts:** Plain colours are best. Avoid branding associated with gangs or offensive slogans.
4. Toiletries (Check Local Rules)
Many prisons will issue you basic 'reception' toiletries (a plastic toothbrush, basic soap, and a razor if deemed safe). However, you are often allowed to bring unopened, non-aerosol toiletries.
**Warning:** Any items containing alcohol (such as some mouthwashes or perfumes) will be confiscated. Stick to basic roll-on deodorant and simple bottled shampoo.
Prohibited Items: What to Leave at Home
Bringing prohibited items can result in them being destroyed or, worse, leading to additional criminal charges for smuggling contraband. Do not bring:
* **Mobile Phones and Chargers:** These are strictly illegal.
* **Smartwatches:** Anything with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capability is banned.
* **Drugs and Alcohol:** This includes some over-the-counter medications that haven\'t been prescribed to you.
* **Aerosols:** Spray deodorants or hairsprays are not allowed due to fire risks and potential for misuse.
* **Tools or Sharp Objects:** Even small nail clippers may be taken depending on the prison\'s specific risk assessment.
* **Blue-tack or Sellotape:** Often used to hide contraband or damage walls; usually issued by the prison if allowed.
Prescription Medication
If you take regular medication, you must bring it with you in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly showing your name.
You will not be allowed to keep the medication in your cell immediately. It will be taken by the reception nurse, and the prison GP will review it. They will then decide whether to continue the prescription and whether you are allowed to 'keep on person' or if you must collect it from the medical hatch daily.
For more on health and well-being, visit the GOV.UK guide on prison health.
Reading Material and Hobbies
You are generally allowed to bring a small number of books or magazines. Books are vital for mental health during the long hours of 'lock-up'.
* **Books:** 2-3 paperbacks. Hardbacks are sometimes restricted as they can be used to hide items in the spine.
* **Writing Materials:** A pad of paper, envelopes, and a plastic pen (no metal parts).
* **Stamps:** You may be allowed to bring a book of 1st or 2nd class stamps, though these can also be bought from the canteen.
What Can Your Family Send In?
Once you are settled, your family may want to send you things. The rules for this have become much stricter in recent years to prevent the smuggling of 'legal highs' or 'spice' soaked into paper and clothing.
Most prisons now require clothes to be sent in via an 'Approved Retailer' or by using a 'Property Parcel' system that requires a pre-approved 'P-Vol' (Property Volumetric) form. Family members should always check the specific prison\'s policy before sending anything.
If your family needs to visit you to discuss property, they can learn how to book a prison visit through the official portal.
Clothes Permitted in Different Categories
Category C and D (Lower Security)
In Category D (Open Prisons), you are usually allowed a much wider range of personal clothing. You might be permitted jeans, hoodies (without strings in some cases), and a wider variety of footwear. In Category C, you might still be required to wear prison-issued tops but can often wear your own trousers and shoes.
Category A and B (High Security)
Expect to wear prison-issue clothing almost exclusively. Your personal property will be extremely limited to items like a radio (if purchased through the prison), a few books, and a limited amount of stationery.
Jewellery and Valuables
The general rule is: do not bring expensive jewellery.
* **Wedding Rings:** A plain band is usually permitted.
* **Watches:** A cheap, non-smart digital or analogue watch (usually valued under £50) is often allowed.
* **Religious Items:** Items like a crucifix, mala beads, or a prayer mat are protected under the Equality Act, but they will still be searched and may need to be cleared by the Prison Chaplaincy.
The Property Log: Why It Matters
Everything you bring in will be listed on a 'Property Record'. Ensure you check this record carefully before signing it. If the prison loses an item of your property, you will need this record to make a claim for compensation.
According to the Prison Service Instruction (PSI) on Prisoner Property, the prison has a duty of care to look after the items they have taken into storage for you.
Education and Work Items
If you intended to study, you may be allowed to bring certain educational materials, but these often need to be cleared by the Education Department within the prison first. Laptops are strictly prohibited unless specifically issued by the prison for a legal case or a high-level educational course, and even then, they will have no internet access.
Preparing a "Go Bag" for Court
If there is a chance you will be remanded or sentenced, prepare a small bag to take to court. Even if you are granted bail, having the bag ready avoids a stressful situation for your family later.
The Ideal Court Bag Checklist:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own pillow and bedding?
Generally, no. Prisons provide a standard-issue pillow, sheets, and blankets. You may be able to purchase a duvet or 'quilt' through the prison canteen system later, but you cannot bring your own from home due to fire safety regulations.
Can I take my mobile phone with me?
No. Your phone will be taken at reception. It will be placed in your stored property and returned to you only upon release. Most UK cells now have 'in-cell' phones, but these only allow you to call pre-approved numbers using credit you purchase from your prison account.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
No. You cannot bring any food or drink into the prison. You will be provided with meals, and you can buy snacks, tea, coffee, and soft drinks through the weekly canteen system.
I wear glasses, can I take them?
Yes. You should definitely take your glasses. It is helpful to bring a copy of your recent prescription as well. If you wear contact lenses, you may be allowed to bring a small supply and solution, but you will likely be encouraged to switch to glasses for the duration of your stay as obtaining solution can be difficult.
Can I bring photos of my family?
Yes, you are allowed to have a reasonable number of photographs. These must not be laminated (as items can be hidden behind the lamination) and must not contain any prohibited content (such as nudity or gang-related signs). These are vital for maintaining connection with home.
What happens to my items when I am released?
You will be processed back through reception on the morning of your release. You will be given back all the items held in 'stored property'. Ensure you have a bag to carry them in, as any bags you arrived with will also be returned to you. Find out more about the transition on GOV.UK's leaving prison page.
Summary
Navigating the rules of what to take into prison requires a balance of practicality and adherence to strict regulations. By focusing on essentials—basic clothing, vital documents, and a small amount of cash—you can make the transition into custody smoother. Always remember that the final decision rests with the Governor of the specific establishment, and safety and security will always take priority over personal preference.