bristol hmp prison visits

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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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Hmp bristol.

• Inside Time Reports
• 13th December 2014
• Male Local , Prison Visit , South West

Prison information

Address: HMP BRISTOL 19 Cambridge Road, Bristol, BS7 8PS Switchboard: 0300 060 6510 Managed by: HMPPS Region:  West Category:  Male Link to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bristol-prison

Description

Bristol Prison is a men’s prison in the Horfield area of Bristol.

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

Search reports

IMB Reports

Prison Inspectorates Reports

Probation Service Reports

Prisons and Probations Ombudsman

Search the InsideTime library

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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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7 thoughts on “ hmp bristol ”.

The new rules about money are that it must be by debit card. But banks advise never to use a debit card over the phone, always a credit card for security.

So how can I send in money to my grandson ?

I need to sent money to my son who is on remand. How can I do it quickly?

how do I send some money in can I do it on line for personal use eg:shower gel,toiletrys ,phone, please could some one let me know.

Editorial Comment: Inside Time have a factsheet which explains the available means of sending money to prisoners in public prisons in England and Wales. For private prisons you would need to contact the specific prison. https://insidetime.org/download/Information/for_prisoners%E2%80%99_families/Sending-money-to-prisoners.pdf

Can a victim of one of the prisoners arrange for a meeting with each other?

I have tried booking a visit all day to be told line closed i need to book a reception visit asap for my son jameshay i do not know his prison number please contact me to sort this out

Does anybody know if prisoners are able to have family visits and legal visits in the same day.

I’ve booked a visit online and it has been confirmed, however I’m pretty sure he has a legal visit on the same day ?

My husband is there in prison and I ve never been there that’s why I am checking on the site

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Bristol Prison Information

Contact information, booking a visit to bristol prison.

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

Unlimited Prison Phone Calls Package

Bristol Prison

Tel: 0117 372 3100  –  19 Cambridge Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8PS

HMP Bristol is a category B prison which currently holds mainly adult male prisoners. In addition to this, there are a small number of young offenders. It is a local prison, which means it only holds convicted and remand inmates from local Courts; and most prisoners are only incarcerated for 12 months or less. It claims to support prisoners by preparing them for release; which includes helping with housing, debt and maintaining family contact. If you’re visiting HMP Bristol, please refer to the map on this page.

Tel: 0117 372 3100

Operational capacity: —

19 Cambridge Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8PS

The Prison Phone service has been helping to reduce the call costs from HMP Bristol since 2013.

If you have a Prison Phone account the inmate that you know will save 75% on their calls to your mobile from the Bristol prison payphones.

Send me Bristol prison details via FREE SMS

Mobile number:

Here’s some facts about Bristol Prison

Famous ex-inmates include Ben Gunn, the blogger and prison reform campaigner; and Gary Glitter.

There have been 14 executions at HMP Bristol. The most recent was in 1963 (Russell Pascoe).

A 2013 inspection found that a large number of inmates spent as long as 23 hours a day in their cells. This included unconvicted prisoners.

Prison Phone offers phone tariffs that reduce the costs of calls from this prison by up to 75%! This enables prisoners to get the support and love that they are missing from home, while reducing costs for the inmate. Find out more below.

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HM Prison Bristol

Table of Contents

HM Prison Bristol, formerly known as Horfield Prison, is a high-walled Category B men’s prison located in the Horfield area of Bristol, England. With origins dating back to the Victorian era, this facility has a long, turbulent history marked by overcrowding, violence, and decaying conditions. However, it continues operating as a hub for remand and sentenced prisoners from across the Southwest. Read on for an in-depth look at the daily life, controversies, and uncertain future facing this troubled gaol.

Location and Layout

Geographically, HM Prison Bristol sits roughly 2 miles north of central Bristol. The grounds occupy a compact 6-acre site enclosed by tall perimeter walls topped with barbed wire. Inside, the prison consists of several multi-story cell blocks constructed from brick and concrete.

The B and C wings were added in the 1960s to increase capacity. Segregation units and healthcare facilities exist onsite. There is also a kitchen, gymnasium, worship areas, workshops, and visitor rooms. A large exercise yard provides limited recreation space for inmates.

Prisoner Demographics

Currently, HM Prison Bristol houses around 640 adult males either on remand, serving short sentences, or imprisoned for serious crimes. It takes in prisoners from across the Southwest region.

A portion of inmates are between 18-21 years old. Others include lifers, violent offenders, and individuals convicted of drug offenses. Segregated vulnerable prisoner and sex offender units also operate. The diverse prisoner mix contributes to tensions.

Daily life for prisoners at HM Bristol varies based on their status but generally follows a highly regimented schedule. Most inmates spend almost all their time confined to cramped shared cells lacking privacy or meaningful activities.

Work opportunities include facility maintenance, kitchen duties, cleaning, and attending workshops. Education is available occasionally. Healthcare and drug addiction treatment exist but remain under strain. Legally-required standards for nutrition, exercise, and hygiene are minimally met.

Violence and bullying between vulnerable inmates and gangs are constant threats. Weapons fashioned from scraps are common. Security staff maintain order through intimidation and forced isolation. Access to visits, phone calls, and mail provide rare connections to the outside.

Controversies and Issues

Throughout its history, HM Prison Bristol has proven highly controversial. Severe overcrowding has been an intractable issue, with many cells holding more prisoners than intended.

Weak staffing and budget shortfalls exacerbate safety risks. Inmate-on-inmate assaults and self-harm incidents occur frequently. Drugs like Spice addict and destabilize the prisoner population leading to debt, violence, and psychiatric crises.

Inspectors have issued scathing reports about filthy conditions, lack of basic hygiene products, negligent medical care, rampant drug use, nonexistent rehabilitation, and an absence of meaningful activities. The prison environment often descends into chaos and crisis.

Notable Events

HM Prison Bristol has witnessed several infamous events over the decades. 14 executions took place up to 1963 via hanging. In 1986 and 1991, major riots caused extensive property damage.

In 1999, disgraced rock star Gary Glitter briefly served time there for child sex offenses. Other celebrity prisoners have included footballer Paddy Lacey and blogger Ben Gunn. Several daring escape attempts have unfolded, with some succeeding.

In 2013, revelations of endemic racism, squalor and staff mistreatment of inmates made national news. Further scandals have emerged regarding preventable deaths, record violence levels, and collapsing facilities.

Rehabilitation and Reentry

Rehabilitative programs at HM Prison Bristol remain underdeveloped compared to some facilities. Short staffing has led to long waitlists for education, vocational courses, therapy, and addiction treatment.

Most prisoners receive little preparation for successfully transitioning back to society upon release. However, some faith-based groups and charities offer mentoring to build life skills. A few inmates gain work experience in the kitchens and maintenance shops.

In summary, ageing HM Prison Bristol faces substantial modern challenges. As the inmate population has grown more volatile, the Victorian-era infrastructure has become outdated and insufficient. Staff shortages and budget constraints further exacerbate systemic dysfunction.

However, despite its problems this facility remains a vital component of the Southwest criminal justice system. Lasting reforms will require extensive modernization, expanded staff and programs, and a renewed focus on safety and humane treatment. The future remains uncertain for this troubled institution.

What is the capacity of HM Prison Bristol?

HM Prison Bristol has an operational capacity of around 640 adult male prisoners, both remand and convicted. The prison was originally built to hold far fewer inmates in Victorian times. Severe overcrowding has been an ongoing issue.

What types of inmates are held there?

HM Bristol houses adult males aged 18 and older. This includes young offenders ages 18-21, remand prisoners awaiting trial, short sentence prisoners, those convicted of violent crimes, and some lifers. Vulnerable inmates and sex offenders are segregated.

What are conditions like at the prison?

Inspectors have given highly critical reports about conditions at HM Bristol. Issues include overcrowding, poor hygiene/sanitation, prevalence of drugs/violence, lack of staff, inadequate healthcare, and minimal rehabilitation opportunities. Cells often house more inmates than intended.

Have there been any riots or notable events?

Yes, there have been major riots at HM Bristol in 1986 and 1991 resulting in significant damage. 14 executions by hanging took place there historically. Notable former inmates include Gary Glitter and footballer Paddy Lacey. Several daring escape attempts have also occurred.

Is any vocational or educational training offered?

Limited vocational workshops and classroom education exist due to short staffing and overcrowding. Some prisoners have maintenance and kitchen work duties. But rehabilitation programs are generally inadequate. Long waitlists exist for existing classes and therapy sessions.

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• Crime, justice and law
• Prisons and probation

Second Urgent Notification for HMP Bristol

The Chief Inspector of Prisons triggered the Urgent Notification process for HMP Bristol on 28 July 2023.

Applies to England and Wales

Lord chancellor and secretary of state for justice response to the hmp bristol second urgent notification.

PDF , 115 KB , 2 pages

HMP Bristol Second Urgent Notification: Initial Response Action Plan

PDF , 155 KB , 6 pages

HMP Bristol Urgent Notification

https://hmiprisons.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmipris_reports/hmp-bristol-urgent-notification/

More detail on the reasons for this can be found on the HM Inspectorate of Prisons website .

The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice published his response and a plan of action within 28 days of the notification.

Lord Chancellors response and action plan published.

First published.

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HMP Bristol

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New report into HMP Bristol after it was labelled one of Britain's most unsafe prisons

Violence, deaths, rats, drugs and overcrowding were some of the issues raised

• 12:49, 23 NOV 2023
• Updated 12:50, 23 NOV 2023

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'Shocking' levels of deaths, violence and self-harm have been highlighted in a new report about HMP Bristol, after it was labelled ‘one of the most unsafe prisons in Britain’. The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) at the prison in Horfield says it has been ‘shocked and saddened’ by the recent number of deaths in custody.

In its 2022-23 annual report, the IMB notes high levels of self-harm and violence and says there has been little improvement in areas of concern it has raised previously. In a recent HMIP inspection Bristol was described as one of the most unsafe prisons in Britain and received an urgent notification.

Staffing pressures contribute to a cycle of prisoners spending longer hours in their cells, increasing frustration and reducing access to education, healthcare and other services, which does not support effective rehabilitation. Over the year the Bristol IMB has reported a "concerning rise in serious safety issues" and other issues including with drugs, maintenance, food, overcrowding and even rats.

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Its report summary claims the prison is 'not fit for purpose', adding: "Bristol prison had one of the highest numbers of deaths across the country, and highest levels of self-harm and violent incidents when compared to other similar prisons. Nine deaths were reported during the year of which six are apparently self-inflicted, and one an [alleged] murder.

“An increase in the number of prisoners from 480 to 580 with no increase in the number of cells or additional staff. The prison is now overcrowded with over six out of 10 prisoners now sharing a cell, many of which were built for one person in Victorian times, for up to 22 hours a day.

“Lack of prison staff on duty; staffing levels were below the required levels and on some days the numbers on duty were below the minimum level needed. This affects the consistent delivery of full daily activities, which were often cancelled on the day.

"Insufficient healthcare to support the growing number of prisoners with complex physical and mental health needs. There continues to be long waits for prisoners requiring specialist mental health units, who are more than often being held in segregation awaiting a transfer.”

The report also noted maintenance issues including a broken boiler system which has since been repaired. It also highlighted: "Rats have been reported as on the increase and evidence of droppings is seen around the prison, despite the actions taken by the prison to tackle the ongoing issue."

Availability of drugs was also a key issue, with the board noting that "the availability of drugs has increased significantly over the year" and "there are frequent incidents of prisoners under the influence, requiring healthcare and on occasion admission to a local hospital".

'Prisoners are being failed'

IMB Chair Emma Firman said: ‘We are now seeing a prison that is being pushed to its limits. If the prison is to be fit for purpose, then additional resources and a reduction in overcrowding is needed to enable the hard working but overstretched staff to keep prisoners safe. Prisoners at Bristol are being failed and most will have a little chance of rehabilitation upon release’.

IMBs are made up of independent public appointees and operate in every prison. The report did add: "Although HMIP describes Bristol as one of the most unsafe prisons in the country, Board members have not had concerns about their personal safety whilst carrying out their monitoring role.

"During the year the Board has seen some positive changes in the prison involving prisoners and staff in a variety of forums. It is difficult to quantify the impact of this."

Prison's response

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “We have already taken action to address the serious concerns raised in this report including bolstering the number of frontline staff to reduce violence and improving the support provided to vulnerable prisoners.

“We only double up cells where it is safe to do so and we’re undertaking significant refurbishments at the prison as part of our multi-billion pound investment to improve conditions across the estate.”

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