Understanding Prison Phone Credit System

When a loved one is in prison, staying in touch is crucial. One of the ways communication can be maintained is through phone calls, hence understanding the prison phone credit system is critical. This page provides detailed information on said system, to help you navigate UK prisons’ phone communication requirements effectively.

What is the Prison Phone Credit System?

It’s a system that allows inmates in UK prisons to make calls from inside the prison. The system operates on a credit basis which means that the inmates need to have balance/credit in their phone account to make outgoing calls.

How does the Prison Phone Credit system work?

1. Inmates can’t receive incoming calls. As the system works on credit, they can only make outgoing calls.
2. Each prisoner has their own telephone account, which they use to pay for the phone calls they make.
3. Credit for the phone account can be purchased through the prison.
4. Friends and family can also transfer phone credit to an inmate’s account via online services.
5. The credit is then deducted from the inmate’s account for each call they make. The cost may vary depending on the destination and duration of the call.

Restrictions within the UK Prison Phone Credit System

• Calls are restricted to maximum duration – generally, this is around 30 minutes but can vary from prison to prison.
• Inmates are not allowed to make calls to international numbers, mobiles and premium rate numbers; exceptions are made only on a case by case basis.
• All calls made are recorded and monitored to ensure the security and safety of both parties involved in the call.
• Unauthorized third-party services which offer to facilitate cheap calls for prisoners are illegal.
• Inmates are not allowed to make calls during lock-up periods.

Adding Credit to a Prisoner’s Phone

Family members and friends can add credit to a prisoner’s phone account using various online services. A few online services that facilitate this include:

1. Gov.uk has a secure payment portal for adding phone credit.
2. Email a Prisoner offers an online service where you can top up phone accounts for a small fee.
3. Prison Voicemail also allows you to add credit to a prison phone account using a debit or credit card.

Privacy within the UK Prison Phone Credit System

It’s crucial to understand that phone calls from prison are subject to monitoring and recording, to ensure safety and security. However, in certain circumstances, ‘privileged’ calls (e.g. calls to solicitors) may be permitted to take place without being monitored or recorded.

Tips for Keeping Communication Costs Down

Despite the systems in place, communicating with an inmate can generate high costs. Here are some tips on how to keep costs down:

1. Limit calls to the necessary minimum. Time and frequency of calls are part of the costs.
2. Always check the rates for topping up the Prison Phone Credit before making a purchase.
3. Avoid disallowed third-party services, as these may result in legal problems and additional costs.

Keeping in touch when someone you care about is in prison can be challenging. However, with a clear understanding of the prison phone credit system, the process can be a little easier. Remember, the key is to stay informed and adhere to the rules.