The Verne Prison Information

The Verne Prison
The Verne Prison, officially known as HMP The Verne, is a Category C men's prison located on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, England. Managed by Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, The Verne Prison serves as an important correctional facility within the UK's prison system. Here is important information about The Verne Prison:

The Verne Prison has a long history and was originally built in the 19th century as a military fortress. It was converted into a prison in 1949 and has since served as a significant correctional facility. The prison operates as a Category C facility, accommodating individuals who have been convicted of various offenses requiring secure custody and rehabilitation.

The Verne 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.

The Verne 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.

The Verne 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: The Verne 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 The Verne 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: The Verne 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: The Verne 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 The Verne,
The Verne,
Portland,
Dorset,
DT5 1EQ

Tel: 01305 825 000

Website: HMP The Verne Prison
Booking a visit to The Verne Prison
Visiting Times at The Verne Prison

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

Visits enquiry line (enquiries about booked visits only): 01305 825 014

The query line is open Monday to Friday, 2pm to 4pm (closes at 3:30pm on Friday)

Only visitors who appear on a prisoner’s Contact List on C-NOMIS will be eligible to book social visits via the online service.

Visiting times:
Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday: 2pm to 4pm

The Verne Prison Information

How to get to The Verne Prison:

The closest railway station is Weymouth. From there, you can take a bus to the Isle of Portland, stopping at the bottom of Verne Common Road. The prison is signposted from the end of the road and is approximately a 20minute walk. There is also a taxi rank at the station. A taxi will cost approximately £15 one way.

By Car: Enter postcode DT5 1EQ into a sat nav to find the establishment. There is a visitor’s car park adjacent to the prison at the top of the hill.

To plan your journey by public transport:

use National Rail enquiries
use Traveline for bus timetables

Verne has a visitors car park, including several spaces for Blue Badge holders.

For all visits to The Verne, 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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