Prison Walkthrough - Accommodation
Below are some frequently asked questions about accommodation in prison. To find out more information about a specific prison, visit the prison service website.
Do prisoners have to share a cell?
In most prisons there are few single cells, so it is most likely that cells will be shared.
Do non-smokers have to share with a smoker?
Where possible, non-smokers will be given non-smoking cells. However, this may not always be possible.
What kind of items can prisoners keep in their cells?
The rules about the property will vary in different prisons, but generally the following items are allowed:
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A radio (rules apply to radios so check these with a prison officer)
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A choice of record, cassette or cd player or a combined system that includes a radio plus records, cd's or cassettes
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At least six newspapers and magazines
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At least three books
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A diary or personal organiser
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A calendar
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Stamps
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Photographs and pictures (though not with glass frames)
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Hobby materials
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Batteries
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Writing and drawing materials
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A battery shaver
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A wedding or plain ring and one pair of plain earrings
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Tobacco, cigarettes etc (limits apply)
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An address book
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Phone cards
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Greetings Cards
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Religious Articles
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Games
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A wrist watch
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A manual typewriter
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Personal toiletries
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A medallion or locket
The prisoner may also be allowed a bigger item like a birdcage, and their legal papers but generally speaking the prisoner's belongings must fit into two boxes.