Rochester Prison Information

Rochester Prison
Rochester Prison, officially known as HMP Rochester, is a Category C men's prison located in Rochester, Kent, England. Managed by Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, Rochester Prison serves as a significant correctional facility within the UK's prison system. Here is important information about Rochester Prison:

Rochester Prison has a long history and was originally established in 1874. The prison operates as a Category C facility, accommodating individuals who have been convicted of various offenses requiring secure custody and rehabilitation.

Rochester Prison is classified as a Category C prison, indicating a medium level of security. The prison implements necessary security measures to ensure the safety and security of both staff and inmates.

Rochester Prison primarily houses adult male offenders who have been assessed as suitable for Category C conditions. These inmates may have committed a range of offenses and are typically serving medium to long-term sentences. The prison focuses on providing a safe and supportive environment to facilitate their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society.

Rochester Prison offers various facilities and services to support the welfare and rehabilitation of its inmates. These include:
  • Accommodation: The prison provides multiple residential units with individual cells or shared accommodation for inmates. The cells are equipped with basic amenities, including beds, personal storage, and sanitation facilities.
  • Education and Vocational Training: Rochester Prison places a strong emphasis on education and vocational training. Inmates have access to a range of educational programs, including basic education, literacy, numeracy, and accredited courses. Vocational training opportunities are also available to develop employable skills and enhance prospects for successful reintegration into society.
  • Work Opportunities: Inmates at Rochester Prison have access to various work activities within the prison, such as maintenance, cleaning, kitchen, and other designated roles. These work activities aim to develop skills, instill discipline, and promote a sense of responsibility.
  • Healthcare: Rochester Prison has an on-site healthcare unit staffed with medical professionals who provide primary healthcare services to prisoners. Mental health support, substance abuse programs, and specialized medical care are also available.
  • Family Contact: The prison recognizes the importance of maintaining family relationships and facilitates visits and contact with family members, subject to specific guidelines and regulations.
  • Resettlement Support: Rochester Prison offers pre-release planning and support to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. This may include assistance with accommodation, employment, and access to community-based support services.
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Contact Information
HMP Rochester,
1 Fort Road,
Rochester,
Kent,
ME1 3QS

Tel: 01634 803 100

Website: HMP Rochester Prison
Booking a visit to Rochester Prison
Visiting Times at Rochester Prison

You can book your visit online or by telephone:
www.gov.uk/prison-visits

Visits booking line: 0300 060 6513

Telephone booking line opening times:

Monday: 11am to 5pm
Tuesday: 9am to 5pm
Wednesday: 11am to 5pm
Thursday: 9am to 5pm
Friday: 11am to 5pm

Visiting times:
Monday to Thursday: 2pm to 3:30pm
Friday: 9:15am to 10:45am
Saturday: 2pm to 3:30pm
Sunday: 2pm to 3:30pm

Risley Prison Information

How to get to Rochester Prison:

The closest railway station is Rochester. From there you can get a taxi or take the Arriva bus route. 145 or 142 bus or alternatively you can walk which is approximately 45 minutes.

To plan your journey by public transport use:

https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/
https://www.traveline.info/

There is a free visitors car park.

There is also a disabled visitors car park.

For all visits to Rochester Prison, visitors are required to bring photographic ID and proof of address (dated within the past 3 months). The only forms of photographic ID that will be accepted are:
  • Valid Passport
  • Valid Photographic
  • Driving Licence (full or provisional)
  • Citizen Card
  • Senior Citizens Bus Pass Travel Card (issued by Scottish Government)
The only forms of proof of address that will be accepted are:
  • Utility bill
  • Council tax bill
  • Benefit book
  • Bank statement
  • other letter from official source

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