Prisoner communications via mail, phone, and visits are important for family contact and legal access. Understanding your communication rights and restrictions is essential.
Legal Framework
Prison Rules 1999 Rule 39 guarantees access to legal correspondence and communication rights. Human Rights Act 1998 Article 8 (private life, family contact) protects communication. European Convention Article 10 (freedom of expression) applies. Prison Service Instruction PSI 04/2013 details communication procedures. Legal correspondence protected from censorship. General mail monitored for security.
Outgoing Mail
Prisoners can send unlimited mail. Envelopes provided by prison or brought in visits. Legal mail marked ‘LEGAL CORRESPONDENCE’ protected from opening/censorship. General mail monitored for security (contraband, threats). Postage typically free for certain approved recipients (courts, legal advisers). Delay: most mail posted same day or next day. Prisoners with no money can request postage credits.
Incoming Mail
Prisoners can receive unlimited mail. Envelopes screened for contraband on reception. Legal mail marked ‘LEGAL CORRESPONDENCE’ opened only with court order and security grounds. General mail monitored but contents normally not censored (unless threatening, contains contraband, etc.). Special mail (court, lawyer, government) prioritized. Money by post usually not permitted (security risk).
Legal Correspondence
All mail to/from solicitors, barristers, courts, tribunals protected absolutely. Staff cannot read contents (exceptions: contraband concern, court order). Legal visits confidential and unmonitored (with rare exceptions for Category A and genuine security threats). Prisoners have right to confidential legal advice. Breach of legal privilege can result in civil claim against prison.
Phone Access
Prisoners can make monitored calls through prison phone system. Calls limited (minutes per week varies by prison and prisoners’ conduct record). Calls recorded for security. Can call approved numbers (family, solicitor, legal services). Phone card system or credit system allows purchase of call minutes. Emergency calls permitted. Visitors can arrange calls during visits when phones available.
FAQ
Is my mail opened and read?
General mail screened for contraband. Legal mail (marked ‘LEGAL CORRESPONDENCE’) protected absolutely. Healthcare and official mail not normally censored.
Can legal letters be opened?
No. Protected by legal privilege. Only opened if contraband concern and court order obtained. Breach of privilege is serious violation.
How much can I phone?
Depends on prison. Typically 50-80 minutes per week. Can earn additional time through good conduct. Credit system allows purchasing additional minutes with personal money.
Can phone calls be listened to?
Yes. Monitored for security. Except solicitor calls (privileged). Recording used for security purposes and misconduct investigation if necessary.
What if I can’t afford postage?
Request from reception. Free postage for legal and certain other official mail. Prison may provide credits for communication with family.
How long does mail take?
Usually posted same day. Delivery 1-3 days depending on destination. Delayed if screened for security concerns. Emergency legal mail expedited.
Can mail be delayed deliberately?
Should not be. Only legitimate security screening causes delay. Systematic delayed mail is grounds for complaint.
Can I get email?
Limited. Some prisons trialing email (Sendoff/Webmail type systems). Generally not available. Phone and mail remain primary communication.
Author: Daniel Hockey | Prison communications and rights specialist, Prison Law Index 2026.
Last Updated: 2026-04-04 | Prison Rules 1999, PSI 04/2013, Human Rights Act 1998.
