uk prison visit rules

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Crime, justice and the law
Prisons and probation

Visit someone in prison

Use this service to request a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales. There’s a different way to book a prison visit in Northern Ireland or a prison visit in Scotland .

To use this service you need the:

prisoner number
prisoner’s date of birth
dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

If you do not have the prisoner’s location or prisoner number, use the ‘Find a prisoner’ service .

You can choose up to 3 dates and times you prefer. The prison will email you to confirm when you can visit.

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can request a visit. This can take up to 2 weeks.

Request a prison visit

Visits you cannot book through this service.

Contact the prison directly if you need to arrange any of the following:

legal visits, for example legal professionals discussing the prisoner’s case
reception visits, for example the first visit to the prisoner within 72 hours of being admitted
double visits, for example visiting for 2 hours instead of 1
family day visits - special family events that the prison organises

Help with the costs of prison visits

You may be able to get help with the cost of prison visits if you’re getting certain benefits or have a health certificate.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Can my loved ones visit me in prison? Task

Your loved ones can visit you when you’re in prison. This includes your partner and close family members.

Your visitors will need to be over the age of 18 unless they are accompanied by an adult. The prison governor may allow people aged 16–18 years old to visit unaccompanied by an adult, as long as they have parental consent.

If you have committed a sexual or violent crime, visitors under the age of 18 are not allowed.

Prison has different rules for:

When and how often you can have visitors
The number of visitors allowed at the same time

Your loved one s will only be allowed to visit if you’ve added them to your visitor list , known as the visiting order or VO . The prison will contact your loved ones once they’re on the list.

How often can my loved ones visit?

Prison privileges

When you’re in prison, you get different levels of benefits based on how well you behav e . This can include the number of visits you can have.

If your visitor lives a long way from the prison, they may be able to make their visit longer, but less often.

Remand prisoner

If you are waiting for your trial, or on remand, you are allowed three , one -hour visits a week.

Convicted prisoner

If you are a convicted prisoner, you are allowed at least two , one -hour visits every four weeks.

How many people can visit me at one time?

Usually a maximum of three adults are allowed to visit at any one time.

The number of children can vary from prison to prison, but a child is classed as an adult for seating purposes at 10–12 years old.

What happens during a visit?

This depends on your privileges or benefits and your overall well-being . Visits can be used to reward good behaviour or to help with your well-being.

Your privileges or benefits may also be affected by the behaviour of your visitors .

I f a visitor has tried to smuggle banned items in to the prison , you may be put on closed visits for a length of time . This means there is a glass barrier between you and your visitors , and you’re not allowed any physical contact.

However, y ou may also be allowed special visits. This could mean you have the chance to do activities like sharing a meal together.

Find out more about how to book a visit, the available facilities and what happens on the day here

How do I book a visit?

Visits to most prisons can be booked online.

If this service is not available, your loved one must contact the prison to find out more .

Help with the costs of visiting

If your loved ones receive certain benefits or have a health certificate and you get no other visitors, they may be able to get help with the cost of visiting you.

This could include costs for travel, accommodation or meals.

Find out more here

How else can I keep in touch with my loved ones?

Letters and telephone calls can be used to keep in touch with your loved ones when you’re in prison.

Add a new comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Visiting rules may change if there is a COVID outbreak within the prison.

If you are unable to visit someone in prison you can still keep in touch.

You can also contact the Prisoners’ Families Helpline on 0808 808 2003. You will not be able to book a visit using this number.

Prisons and probation

Privacy Terms of Use Cookies Accessibility Community Rules

A site to help you find information and resources about the criminal justice system in England and Wales. Established in 2018.

Run by Volunteers and powered by Conviction

About this page

LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Reach Volunteering

Ashmans Solicitors

The rules on prison visits.

Send your enquiry.

" * " indicates required fields

Your information is safe and treated in accordance with our Privacy Policy

The rules around prison visits in England and Wales vary depending on the prisoner’s status and the risk associated with that prisoner.

Everyone has certain legal rights, including those accused or convicted of a criminal offence. If you are being held at a police station or prison, contact us at Ashmans Solicitors. We specialise in criminal defence law and can ensure your rights are upheld. We can take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Prison visits – who can visit and when?

The Covid-19 pandemic impacted prison visits, limiting or preventing visitors altogether. Now restrictions are easing; we are expecting a gradual return to normality. In light of this, our criminal defence solicitors have outlined what is and is not allowed when it comes to prison visits.

First things first: who is allowed to visit and when?

There is no limit to the number of visits a prisoner can have from a legal representative or probation officer. However, regarding social visits from family and friends, the rules depend on the prisoner’s status.

Remanded in custody – if the defendant is being remanded in custody until their trial or sentencing hearing, he or she is allowed a social visit thrice weekly. A visiting order may or may not be needed.

Immediately after conviction – if the defendant is sentenced to jail time, he or she is allowed to have someone visit them within the first 72 hours of their arrival at the prison. This is known as a ‘reception visit’. A visiting order is not needed.

During the prison sentence , a convicted prisoner is entitled to one social visit per fortnight and one weekend visit every four weeks. These visits can be up to one hour long. A visiting order is needed. The prison governor can decide to allow additional visits under certain circumstances.

How Long Are Prison Visits ?

Prison visits are 1 hour long.

During a social visit, the prisoner can see three adults and accompanying children. Children under 18 cannot visit a prisoner alone; an adult must accompany them.

What’s allowed during a prison visit?

So long as it is not a ‘closed visit’, the prisoner and the visitor will be seated in the same room. Reasonable physical contact, such as a hug, should be allowed. However, the visitor cannot give anything to the prisoner, like a mobile phone. Visitors must leave all their belongings in a locker before entering the room. To ensure these rules are adhered to, the visitor may be patted down by a prison guard and asked to walk through a security arch, just like you do at the airport.

Closed visits

If prison guards believe there is a reasonable risk that the visitor will smuggle contraband to the prisoner, they may decide that any visits should be ‘closed visits’. The exact nature of a closed visit depends on the prison’s facilities. The visit may be under strict supervision, or the prisoner and visitor may be kept physically separate with a pane of glass. Closed visits do not impact the prisoner’s entitlement to visitors and usually only last for three months, after which the decision should be reviewed.

If any visitors are caught smuggling items into a prison, they can be banned. Again, this decision would usually be re-assessed after three months.

How to visit someone in prison

First, it is necessary to check whether a visiting order is needed. If so, the visiting order must be completed by the prisoner and sent to the visitor. The visitor can then book their visit with the prison in question. This can now be done online.

Visitors to category A (high security) prisons may have to be security checked and approved before visiting.

More Resources

Some Offenders To Be Tagged After Release
Can an ex prisoner visit a prisoner
Caught smuggling drugs into prison

Call 0333 009 6275. We can take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You can also email us at [email protected] or complete our Free Online Enquiry Form , and we’ll be in touch soon.

By Ashmans Solicitors

New Rules for Sexual Harm Prevention Orders

Aggravated Trespass While Protesting

Unduly Lenient Sentences Explained

Parliament Considers New Protest Offences

All Blog Posts

Sign up to our newsletter

Receive updates and links to latest articles sent straight to your inbox.

Become Our Partner

In the meantime, if you have any further queries, get in touch at 03330096275 or email us on [email protected]

Download A Guide

Book a visit to prison

You will need to book a visit if you want to see someone in prison. You can book online to arrange an in person visit or a virtual visit with a prisoner or you can telephone the prison Visits Booking Office.

If you haven't visited a prison before you will need to phone to book your visit. You will be provided with your unique visitor identification number. Once you have this you can start to book online.

Booking online

To book online for an in person visit or a virtual visit you will need:

to have previously booked a visit
the visit reference number for the prisoner
the prisoner's number
your unique visitor identification number
your date of birth
your e-mail address and contact number
the unique visitor identification number and dates of birth for all additional visitors (not needed for a virtual visit)

If you do not have these details, you should phone the relevant booking office.

Booking by telephone

To book a visit by telephone you will need:

the visit reference number for the prisoner
the unique visitor identification number and dates of birth for all additional visitors

If you don't have a unique visitor identification number, you can get one from the booking office which you can use for future visits.

If the person you are visiting has just arrived in prison you will need to ring the booking office and they can arrange a visit.

Virtual visits

A virtual visit can last up to 20 minutes. The visitor can use a personal computer, mobile device or smartphone to have this meeting with the prisoner.

All virtual visits are supervised, if NIPS become aware of any behaviour, language or actions which are considered inappropriate, this will result in the visit ending early and possible removal of the facility in the future.

Guide to arranging an online visit
Privacy notice explaining your rights to privacy when you arrange an online visit

Registering for visits

All visitors need to be registered in the prison they are visiting. When you arrive at Visits Reception you need to be photographed, have a scan taken of your finger and you should bring identification.

more information about registering for visits

Bringing proof of identification to prison

When you first visit someone in prison, you will need to be registered on the prison system as a visitor. You will need to bring proof of identification with you when you are being registered.

more information about the types of identification needed

Useful links

Visiting someone in prison

Translation help

Help improve this page - send your feedback.

You will not receive a reply. We will consider your feedback to help improve the site. Don't include any personal or financial information, for example National Insurance, credit card numbers, or phone numbers.

What to do next

Comments or queries about angling can be emailed to [email protected]

If you have a comment or query about benefits, you will need to contact the government department or agency which handles that benefit. Contacts for common benefits are listed below.

Carer's Allowance

Call 0800 587 0912 Email [email protected]

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Call 0800 587 2750 Email [email protected]

Disability Living Allowance

Call 0800 587 0912 Email [email protected]

Employment and Support Allowance

Call 0800 587 1377

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Contact your local Jobs & Benefits office

Personal Independence Payment

Call 0800 587 0932

If your query is about another benefit, select ‘Other’ from the drop-down menu above.

Comments or queries about the Blue Badge scheme can be emailed to [email protected] or you can also call 0300 200 7818.

For queries or advice about careers, contact the Careers Service .

For queries or advice about Child Maintenance, contact the Child Maintenance Service .

For queries or advice about claiming compensation due to a road problem, contact DFI Roads claim unit .

If you can’t find the information you’re looking for in the Coronavirus (COVID-19) section , then for queries about:

Restrictions or regulations — contact the Department of Health
Travel advice (including self-isolation) — contact the Department of Health
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccinations — contact the Department of Health or Public Health Agency

If your query is about another topic, select ‘Other’ from the drop-down menu above.

For queries about your identity check, email [email protected] and for queries about your certificate, email [email protected] .

For queries or advice about criminal record checks, email [email protected]

Application and payment queries can be emailed to [email protected]

For queries or advice about employment rights, contact the Labour Relations Agency .

For queries or advice about birth, death, marriage and civil partnership certificates and research, contact the General Register Office Northern Ireland (GRONI) by email [email protected]

For queries about the High Street Spend Local Scheme, email [email protected] .

For queries about:

Car tax, vehicle registration and SORN contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Swansea
Driver licensing and tests, MOT and vehicle testing contact the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA), Northern Ireland

For queries about your identity check, email [email protected] .

For queries or advice about passports, contact HM Passport Office .

For queries or advice about Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), including parking tickets and bus lane PCNs, email [email protected]

For queries or advice about pensions, contact the Northern Ireland Pension Centre .

If you wish to report a problem with a road or street you can do so online in this section .

If you wish to check on a problem or fault you have already reported, contact DfI Roads .

For queries or advice about historical, social or cultural records relating to Northern Ireland, use the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) enquiry service .

For queries or advice about rates, email [email protected]

For queries or advice about 60+ and Senior Citizen SmartPasses (which can be used to get concessionary travel on public transport), contact Smartpass - Translink .

If you have a question about a government service or policy, you should contact the relevant government organisation directly . We don't have access to information about you.

Criminal Profiles
Entertainment Industry
Prison Guide

September 13, 2023 September 13, 2023

What to Wear on a Prison Visit in the UK: Need To Know

Visiting a loved one or friend in UK prison can be a stressful experience. Following the proper dress code is key to getting approved for visitation. This article provides specifics on what is acceptable and prohibited attire when visiting UK prisons.

Overview of UK Prison Visitation Rules

The UK Prison Service provides guidelines that all visitors must adhere to:

No revealing, offensive, or provocative clothing
No blue denim, combat attire, or bright colors
No tight, sheer, ripped, or holes in clothing
Avoid excessive jewelry and accessories
Expect to go through metal detector screening

Rules are enforced by gate security. Visitors in violation of the dress code will be denied entry.

Dress Codes for Women Visitors

Women visiting UK prisons should avoid the following:

Low cut tops showing excessive cleavage
See-through or excessively tight garments
Skirts or shorts shorter than knee-length
Ripped jeans or jeans with holes
Leggings, yoga pants, sweat pants
Brightly colored clothing or prints
Revealing open back shirts or dresses
Any clothing with offensive logos, images, or slogans

Instead, ideal choices include:

Modest dresses or long skirts below the knee
Dark colored trousers
Collared blouses or casual shirts
Cardigans or sweaters
Comfortable but conservative shoes
Minimal makeup and jewelry

The key is dressing conservatively and not wearing anything form-fitting or provocative.

Dress Codes for Men Visitors

Male visitors should similarly avoid:

Ripped or overly casual jeans
Shorts of any kind
Athletic wear including track pants and hoodies
Sleeveless vests or tank tops
Brightly colored clothing
Clothing with offensive slogans or images
Excessive jewelry like chains or oversized watches

Recommended options include:

Button down shirts or polos
Trousers including chinos, slacks, khakis
Simple shoes like loafers
Dark colored jumpers or cardigans
A belt with shirt tucked in

Conservative, clean-cut attire is required. Business casual is ideal.

Rules for Children’s Clothing

If bringing children along:

No overly revealing clothing
Avoid bright colors that could denote gang affiliation
No clothing with controversial images or wording
No ripped or tight jeans
Leggings must be worn under dress or skirt
Onesies acceptable for infants

Comfortable play outfits are fine as long as they meet guidelines.

Banned Clothing Items

The following are expressly prohibited:

Blue denim – Not permitted under any circumstance due to gang connotations
Camouflage – Banned for security reasons
Sports team attire – Jersey shirts or team logos are restricted
Hats and hoods – Must be removed for security screening
Coats and jackets – Outerwear must be stored in lockers

Leave any clothing falling into these categories at home.

Tips for Finding Approved Outfits

Shop for dress code suitable items well in advance of your scheduled visit
Look for wardrobe staples in dark, neutral colors
Avoid latest fashion trends and any provocative styles
Try on outfits and test flexibility – make sure nothing is too tight or revealing when bending over or reaching
Scarves, shawls, and ties should be simple with no controversial images/logos

Give yourself plenty of options accounting for weather and last minute issues.

Screening Process at Check-In

At prison check-in, visitors go through multiple security checks:

ID verification – Photo ID is checked against approved visitors list
Metal detector – Scan screens for prohibited items
Pat down – Guests may undergo further physical inspection
Dress code check – Outfits are reviewed for violations
Contraband check – Bags, coats, gifts are carefully searched

If any contraband is found or dress code violated, visitation is denied.

Consequences of Wearing Unapproved Outfits

If your attire violates prison visitation policies, these are the consequences:

Denied entry with no visit that day
Future visits may be blocked or require re-approval
Embarrassment and frustration after long journeys to the prison
Letting down the incarcerated loved one expecting the visit
Wasted time and money making the trip to the facility

Avoid this by carefully adhering to the dress code.

Visiting loved ones in UK prisons comes with a strict dress code. Following the conservative clothing guidelines helps ensure a smooth entry process and a successful visit. Leave prohibited items like ripped jeans or hoodies at home. Both male and female visitors should opt for modest, non-revealing choices absent of logos and bright colors. Dress for a formal occasion to respect facilities’ security needs. Focus your visit on connecting with your incarcerated family or friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every uk prison have the same visitation dress code.

Generally yes, since policies come from Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service. But always check your specific prison’s website for any facility-specific variations.

Can I just wear whatever is comfortable?

No, prisons have very strict dress code rules that exclude casual and revealing clothing for security reasons. Following them is mandatory for getting approved to visit.

Do the rules differ for solicitors or professional visitors?

Solicitors and professionals may have slightly more leniency but should still avoid casual wear. Check with the specific prison for guidelines.

Can I change clothes if denied for my outfit?

Usually not; once denied entry you will not be allowed to visit that day. Come appropriately dressed the first time to avoid this.

Can I wear jewelry?

Minimal jewelry like a simple necklace, rings, stud earrings are OK but avoid anything excessive. Bangles, chains, hoops may show up on the metal detector.

Why Did Johnny Depp Go to Prison?
Why Did Charles S. Dutton Go to Prison?
Did Michael Desiato Go Back to Prison
Why is Suge Knight in Prison?

Share this post on social

We are dedicated to exploring the intricacies of prison life and justice reform through firsthand experiences and expert insights.

Prison Security Categories

Each prisoner is given a prison security category which gets based on:

The risk of them trying to escape.
The risk of them causing harm to other prisoners and staff.

Note : Any prisoner can get transferred to another jailhouse with a different security category at any time.

Jail Rules on Prisoner Privileges and Rights

Prisoner privileges uk.

Prisoner privileges are for prisoners who follow prison rules and regulations. The ‘Incentives and Earned Privileges Scheme’ means a prisoner may:

Receive more frequent visits from family members or friends.
Be allowed to spend more of their money each week.

Note : Prison privileges vary between different prisons in the United Kingdom. The staff will explain how their particular scheme works.

Prisoner Rights UK

As a rule, all prisoners should be able to spend 30 minutes to one hour in the open air outside each day. Other rights of prisoners includes:

Receiving protection from racial harassment and bullying.
Being allowed to contact a solicitor.
Access to healthcare in prison (including support for a mental health condition).

Prisoner Punishment

As a rule, prisoners who break prison rules and regulations get punished.

Punishment inside a jail can mean:

Being kept in the cell for up to 21 days.
Being given up to 42 days extra inside prison on top of an original sentence.
A removal of certain privileges (e.g. taking away a TV from the cell).

Prison Rules and Regulations in the United Kingdom

Healthcare in Prisons UK

Prisoners receive the same healthcare and treatment as anyone living outside of prison. The treatment is free but it must get approved by a prison doctor or by a member of the healthcare team.

Even though prisons in the United Kingdom do not have hospitals, many have medical equipment and in-patient beds. Most medical problems get dealt with by the healthcare team based at the lockup. In extreme cases the staff may also:

Get a medical expert to visit the prisoner while doing time.
Arrange for healthcare treatment in an external hospital.

Note : A healthcare team can ask to see a prisoner’s family doctor medical records. But, they can only do this if the prisoner agrees to it.

Specialist Help and Support

In some cases, prisoners can get specialist support such as if they have:

A problem with drugs or alcohol.
HIV or AIDS
A disability or have a learning difficulty.

Important : The government announced new plans for tackling the use of illegal drugs behind bars. As a result, prison drug dogs are being used sniff out various strands of Spice.

Refusing Medical Treatment in Prison

Prison rules and regulations mean prisoners can refuse medical treatment. But, the healthcare team can choose to provide medical treatment in cases where the prisoner is incapable of making decisions themselves.

As a rule, the healthcare team will discuss the matter with the prisoner’s family first. An example would be where the convict has a mental health condition.

Prison Life in the UK for Vulnerable Prisoners

Prison staff receive training to identify vulnerable prisoners. In particular, they will spot those who are at risk of bullying, self-harm, and suicide.

In some cases the prisoner can get their own case manager to ensure that they:

Can discuss their mental health and any feelings about depression.
Get regular support during their life in prison from a health specialist.

Many prisons have ‘ listener schemes ‘. These offer confidential emotional support for people who are finding prison life in the UK difficult. Often, listener scheme support comes from fellow prisoners and other inmates.

Psychiatric Hospitals

A prisoner can get transferred to a secure psychiatric hospital for the sake of their own safety. But, this only happens when they meet certain conditions under the Mental Health Act 1983 .

Note : Prisoners get returned to their original prison when their condition improves.

Are Concerned about a Prisoner?

In cases where you have concerns or feel worried about a prisoner:

Inform a member of the prison staff when you make a visit.
Contact the ‘ Safer Custody Team ‘ at the prison.

Note : Some prisons run confidential Safer Custody hotlines. That means you can leave a message explaining your concerns.

Pregnancy and Childcare Inside Prisons

Women who give birth inside a prison can keep their baby for the first 18 months. They will both spend some prison life in a mother and baby unit .

If you are a prisoner with a child under 18 months old, you can apply to bring your child to prison with you.

Social Services arrange for children who are over 18 months old to get cared for. In most cases it will be by the prisoner’s parents, or by fostering services.

Applying for Places in Prison Mother and Baby Units

A prisoner can apply for a space in a mother and baby unit when they enter prison.
An admissions board decide whether it is the best option for the child.
You may get offered a place in another unit if there are no places in the prison the mother first goes to.
Arrangements must be made for childcare outside the jail if there are no spaces in any unit.
Mothers can appeal if they are refused a place (the prison explains how).
Separation plans occur when the mother enters prison if the child will reach 18 months before her sentence is over.

Note : Arrangements are normally made for the child to be cared for outside of prison for prisoners with sentences of 18 months or over.

List of Prisons with Mother and Baby Units

You can search online to find a prison or prisoner but these prisons have mother and baby units:

Askham Grange
Bronzefield
Eastwood Park
Peterborough

Temporary Release for Pregnant Prisoners

Many pregnant women in prison do not pose a high risk of harm to the general public. Hence, some will be released from custody ‘temporarily’ to protect them and their unborn children from coronavirus.

The same temporary release applies to prisoners and their children in Mother and Baby Units – providing they meeting the same risk assessment.

Once they pass a risk assessment, prison governors can grant their release on temporary licence. Part of the process also involves finding suitable accommodation for the women.

Work in Prison Education

Most prisons offer courses to help prisoners learn new skills. Examples include using computers , learning to read and write, and how to do basic maths.

You might also have an opportunity to learn engineering, woodworking, or gardening. The prison ‘ Individual Learning Plan ‘ lists the courses and training available.

Skills and Qualifications

Generally, the courses lead to qualifications recognised by employers outside prison. Examples include GCSEs or NVQs. In some cases life in prison may also include a distance learning course such as Open University.

Working in Prison UK

Most prisoners can work in prison while they carry out their sentence. They can a chance to work in electrical engineering or make clothes and basic furniture.

These tasks are part of prison workshops and, as a rule, prisoners get paid for this type of work . In some cases, working in prison can include jobs at the detention center (e.g. in laundries and kitchens).

Note : UK prison rules and regulations allow a ‘ low-risk ‘ prisoner to work among, and join, general community activities .

DoingTime, a guide to prison and probation

Visiting Rules

Those on the outside can offer a great deal of comfort and support for prisoners by doing some simple things. All prisoners crave contact with the outside, particularly those with young children. There is no limit as to the number, or length, of letter that can be sent and post is always well received. It is also sensible to send small books of stamps into the prison to encourage responses.

The vast majority of prisons do not allow you to post in items to a prisoner, if you do post items in they will just be returned to you, or held by the prison in storage until release date. Prison does, however, allow you to take things into the prison on visits subject to a number of restrictions. Look at the individual prison pages for more detailed information on how visits are run at each prison.

The first of restrictions are that the item you are bringing in is an allowed item, ie it is on the facilities list as being permitted by the prison. You will not be allowed to bring in tobacco or other related items, neither will food and drink be allowed. The actual rules applied alter form prison to prison, eg some prison only allow item brought in on weekend visits, or within the first month of custody, so look at the individual prison pages for information.

Visits are important to everybody involved. Whilst some visiting areas are not very welcoming the prison do try very hard to make the visit an enjoyable and stress free occasion. You book visits direct with the prison on a dedicated phone number, and when confirmed you will be given a specific date and time. It is wide to arrive for the visit in good time as you will be subjected to a search, which will vary between an airport style pat down, a drug dog investigation to a full body search. These full searches are undignified and unpleasant for you and the prison officer, but it best to grin and bear it. If you refuse the search you will be denied access to the visit.

It is also wise to check with the prison what items you are allowed to take into the visit hall with you. Obviously electronic items such as mobile phones or tablets are not permitted, but some prison do not allow any money to be taken in, or others coins only. In other you exchange money for tokens which you can exchange for tea & coffee etc while in the visit hall.

Family Visits
Travel Help & assistance
Eyes and Ears!

Return to Family & Friends

Prison rules and adjudications

Information about the rules you are expected to follow in prison and what happen if you break these rules.

Prison Rules

Prison offences

What happens if i break prison rules.

Before the hearing

The Hearing / Adjudication

Help at the hearing

Punishments

Getting extra days back.

Further information

Prison Rules apply to every prison but the governor may have local rules as well.

When you break Prison Rules it is called an offence. These offences are listed in Prison Rule 51 and Young Offender Institution Rule 55.

You can be charged for an offence and given a punishment. This happens through the adjudications system which we describe below.

The Prison Rules can be difficult to understand. More information can be found in PSI 05/2018 Prisoner Discipline Procedures . There should be a copy this in the library.

If you do any of the things below, it means you have broken Prison Rules and committed an offence.

Behaving in a way that could offend, threaten or hurt someone else

If you offend or hit anyone or get into a fight with anyone.
If you offend anyone or hit them because of their race
If you say anything or do anything that could upset, threaten or frighten anyone else. And if you do this because of someone’s race.
If you keep someone away from other people, if they do not want this. For example, if you lock them up somewhere.
If you behave in a way that could put someone else in danger or damage their health.
If you are rude to anyone who works at the prison or young offender institution or anyone who is visiting there.

Stopping prison staff from doing their jobs

If you stop anyone who works in the prison from getting where they need to go in the prison. For example by building a barricade to stop someone coming into your cell.
If you stop anyone who works at the prison from doing their job.

Escaping from prison

If you escape from prison or custody. For example, if you run away from an escort.
If you do not come back when you have been allowed out of prison for a short time. This is called absconding.

Drugs and alcohol

If you are ordered to have your urine tested and it shows you have taken any drug you are not allowed to take, even if you have taken it while you were out of prison for a short time.
If you choose to drink alcohol or are found to be drunk after drinking alcohol.

Causing damage to the prison or young offender institution

If you set fire to any part of the building or anything in it.
If you damage or destroy any part of the building or anything in it that is not yours.
If you put up anything on the walls or write or draw anything that could upset, threaten or frighten anyone.

Things you can and cannot have

If you have something you should not have. For example, a mobile phone, a knife or drugs.
If you have more of something than you are allowed to have.
If you accept something you are not allowed to have from someone who visits you.
If you sell or give something to a person that you are not allowed to have.
If you sell or give a person something only you can have.
If you take or steal anything that is not yours from another person or from the prison.

Being in a place in the prison you should not be

If you leave a place you should be in.
If you go to a place you should not go to.

Not doing what prison staff tell you to do

If you are asked to do work and you do not do it properly or at all.
If you do not follow an order or a rule that you should follow.
If you break any of the prison rules or try to help someone else to.

Breaking the rules while you are out of prison for a short time

If you break the rules if you are let out of prison for a short time, for example if you are Released on Temporary Licence (ROTL) .

More information about offences, including how it should be written on the nicking sheet, can be found in Annex B of PSI 05/2018 Prisoner Discipline Procedures .

You will be put on report. This means a prison officer will tell you that they think you have committed an offence and what offence they think you have committed. They should tell you straight away, or within 48 hours.

They will give you two forms:

DIS 1 form – also called a ‘nicking sheet’. This tells you about the offence the prison officer thinks you have committed. The offence you are accused of is also called a charge. You must say if you do not understand what is written on this form.
DIS 2 form. This tells you what will happen at the hearing.

On this form you can write a statement about what you think happened. Do this on the back of the form. Ask for more paper if you need it

Write the name of any witnesses you want to come to the hearing, if you know who they are at this stage. You can say at the hearing who you want your witnesses to be if you prefer.

You must go to a hearing, also called an adjudication. This is where you and prison staff talk about the offence and what you all think happened. The hearing will be run either by the governor or by someone from outside the prison called an independent adjudicator.
At the hearing, you have to say whether you are guilty or not guilty of the offence.
The governor or the independent adjudicator will decide if you are guilty or not guilty of the offence. They will do this after listening to you and other people who know about what happened.
If you are found guilty, you will be given a punishment. If you are found not guilty, nothing more will happen

What happens before the hearing?

The hearing will usually happen the day after you are put on report (unless it is a Sunday or a Public Holiday).
You should have at least 2 hours to get ready for the hearing.
You may have your health checked by a doctor or nurse before the hearing to make sure you are well enough to go to the hearing.
You may be kept apart from other prisoners until your hearing

What to do before the hearing

Think about what you want to say at the hearing.
Read form DIS2. On this form you can write a statement about what you think happened. Ask for more paper if you need it
Think about whether anyone else saw what happened. They could be a witness for you at the hearing.
Ask prison staff for all copies of paperwork relating to the charge.
It may be useful for you to look at PSI 05/2018 Prisoner Discipline Procedures .. There should be a copy of it in the prison library. Ask to see a copy of it if you cannot get to the library.
You could ask for the hearing to be put back to a later date if you do not get to see PSI 05/2018 before your hearing.
If you find it difficult to read or write, or do not understand something then ask a prison officer or your solicitor for help.
You will have to go to a prison hearing to talk about the offence. Hearings are also called ‘adjudications’.
The hearing will usually happen the day after prison staff tells you about the offence they think you have committed.
The hearing will be run by either a governor or a district judge from outside the prison (called an independent adjudicator).
You will have a chance to say what you think happened.
You can also get witnesses to come and talk at the hearing.
You may be able to get some other people to help you. For example, a solicitor or someone called a McKenzie friend. See below for other help you can get at a hearing.
Speak to a prison officer or your solicitor if you do not understand what is happening or need to ask questions.

What will happen at the hearing?

1. The governor will check:

if you are well enough to take part
the forms have been completed properly and the time limits have been followed
you have got forms DIS1 and DIS2
you understand why you are at the hearing and what will happen
you have had enough time to get ready for the hearing. For example, to think about what you want to say.
if you want any help, like legal advice or an interpreter
if you have a written staement for the hearing

2. Someone will read out the charge. The charge is the offence the prison staff think you have committed.

3. You will be asked to say whether you are guilty or not guilty of the offence.

If you plead guilty

The prison officer who put you on report will read out a statement about what happened.
You then have to say what you think about this. You can ask also questions.
Say if you do not agree with what the prison officer has said. You can also ask to call witnesses if you do not agree with what the prison officer has said. The governor must consider anything you say you do not agree with.
The governor may decide that the facts are right and that there is nothing more to consider. If so, he or she will ask you if you want to make a plea in mitigation. This is where you can tell the governor anything you think would make your offence look less serious.
A member of prison staff will then read out information about how you have behaved since you came to prison. And about any hearings you have had before. You can then say what you think about the information they have read out.
The governor will then tell you what your punishment is. Then you will be given a copy of a form that tells you what your punishment is. The form is called DIS7.
At any point, if the governor thinks your offence is serious enough for you to get extra days, they will ask an independent adjudicator to look at your case. You may have to wait up to 28 days to see the independent adjudicator.

If you plead not guilty, or if you are not sure how to plead

The prison officer who put you on report will read out a statement about what they think happened.
You can say what you think about this or ask any questions.
The governor will ask the prison officer some questions. They may also ask to hear from some witnesses.
You and the governor can ask the witnesses questions.
Then you will be asked to say what you think about the charge (what prison staff think you have done) and the evidence they have given.
You can call witnesses to speak in your defence if you want to (unless the governor thinks there is a very good reason why not).
You, the prison officer and the governor can ask the witnesses questions.
You will be able to say the main reasons why you think you are not guilty.
The governor will then tell you the decision he or she has made. This is called the verdict. The governor must be very sure that you have committed the offence before he or she finds you guilty.
If you are found guilty, the governor will tell you what your punishment is. The governor will then give you a copy of a form that tells you what your punishment is. The form is called Form 256D.
At any point, if the governor thinks your offence is serious enough for you to get extra days, they will ask an independent adjudicator to look at your case.

Other help you can get at the hearing

You may be able to get these types of help at your hearing

legal advice
legal representation (a solicitor comes to the hearing to represent you)
a friend or adviser to come along (this person is called a McKenzie friend). This person can come and take notes for you and give you advice. But they cannot represent you and can only talk if the governor says it is ok. Your McKenzie friend could be someone like the chaplain, a prison officer or another prisoner.

If the hearing is run by a governor

You can get legal advice. This could be by telephone, letter or at a visit with your solicitor.

You cannot get legal representation, unless the governor says you can have it because of things like:

how serious the offence is and the punishment you could get
possible questions about the law that may come up
how much you understand about what is happening
things that may slow the case down or cause any problems. For example, if you have had problems getting your defence ready because you have been kept apart from other prisoners.

You cannot usually have a McKenzie friend or an advisor at this type of hearing. But you may be able to have a McKenzie friend or advisor if you do not understand what is happening, the case is very difficult or the governor thinks it is fair to allow this.

If the hearing is run by an independent adjudicator (a district judge)

You can always get legal representation (a solicitor comes to represent you).
The governor or legal services officer can help you with any problems you have getting legal representation.

The punishments you could get are included in Prison Rule 55 & 55A and Young Offender Rule 60 & 60A.They are also listed in Annex B of PSI 05/2018 .

The punishment you get depends on how serious the offence is.

The prison may get the police involved if they think the offence is serious.

If you commit more than 1 offence you can be punished for each offence. The punishments may run one after the other.

Any punishment apart from a caution can be suspended for up to 6 months. This means your punishment may start if you commit another offence in that time.

A governor can give you any punishment apart from extra days. An independent adjudicator (a district judge) is the only person who can give you extra days, as well as any of the other punishments.

The adjudicator should think about the following things when deciding which punishment you should get:

The circumstances and seriousness of the offence
The effect on victims
The impact any punishment would have on you, including to your health or welfare
Any risks included in an open ACCT or an ACCT that has been closed in the last 3 months
Your behaviour in custody
How long until you are released
The effect of the offence on the order of the prison
Whether you have pled guilty or not guilty
If you have made a plea in mitigation (this is where you tell them anything you think would make your offence look less serious)

Here is a list of punishments you could get for committing an offence

You could get a caution.
Your privileges (like having a TV in your cell) could be taken away from you for up to 42 days. Or up to 21 days for young offenders.
Up to 84 days’ worth of any money you earn could be stopped. Or up to 42 days’ for young offenders. But you will get enough money to buy stamps and make phone calls to keep in touch with your family
You could be locked in a cell by yourself away from other prisoners for up to 35 days. Or for up to 16 days for young offenders over 18. This is called cellular confinement. You will have a check first by a doctor or nurse to make sure you are well enough to do this.
You could be stopped from doing work with other prisoners for up to 21 days.
If you are on remand, your privileges could be taken away.
You could be taken away from the prison wing or living unit for 28 days. Or for up to 21 days for young offenders.
You could get extra days in prison. There is more information about this below.
You could be stopped from taking part in activities for up to 21 days.
You could have to do 2 hours extra work a day for up to 21 days.

If the offence is serious enough, you may be given as many as 42 extra days in prison as well as any of the other punishments.

Extra days are not part of your sentence but you will spend the extra time in prison.

Only independent adjudicators (they are district judges) can give you extra days.

If you are on remand, you will serve your extra days only if you are convicted and given a sentence.

You will not be given extra days if you are a life sentence prisoner, an imprisonment for public protection prisoner (IPP), are a civil prisoner, or a foreign national being held in prison while your immigration is sorted out.

Can I appeal?

If you think the hearing was done in the wrong way or your punishment was too harsh you may be able to appeal.

If your hearing was run by a governor

Ask a prisoner officer on your wing for a form called form DIS8.
Fill in the form and send it to the governor within 6 weeks of the hearing.
Someone called the Deputy Director of Custody (DDC) will decide about your case.
If the DDC thinks your hearing was wrong, they can change the fact that you were found guilty or change the punishment.

If your hearing was run by an independent adjudicator

Ask a prisoner officer on your wing for a form called form IA4.
Fill in the form and send it to the governor within 14 days of the hearing.
Your paper will be sent to a judge called the senior district judge to look at. The judge is from Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
The senior district judge can decide to change your punishment. But they cannot change the fact you were found guilty.

If you are still not happy after this

You can ask someone called the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman to look at your case. The Ombudsman does not work for the prison. Their job is to look at complaints by prisoners about prison life.

The ombudsman will try to sort out the situation between you and the governor first.
If this does not work, the ombudsman will write a report about what they think should happen.
You will not be able to have your hearing again. But the ombudsman can suggest that the prison changes the fact you were found guilty or the punishment you got.

Write to the ombudsman at

Prisons and Probation Ombudsman

Third Floor,

10 South Colonnade,

London E14 4PU

or call 020 7633 4100. This number is already on your PIN

Judicial review

You could ask a judge to look at your case. It is a good idea to speak to your solicitor for advice on this.

You may not be able to get a judge to look at your case. It may be best to make a complaint in the ways described above first.

There is more information in Prisoner’s Advice Service information sheet ‘ Judicial Review ’

You can apply to get some of the extra days back you were given.
You can normally apply to get up to half of the days back.
You can apply to get the extra days back 6 months after you were last found guilty of committing an offence. Or 6 months after the last time you applied to get the extra days back.
If you are a young offender, you can apply 4 months after.

How do I apply to get extra days back?

Speak to a member of staff on your wing. The member of staff will check to see if you may be able to get the extra days back.

You will then be asked to put something in writing to say why you think you should get your extra days back.

A member of staff on your wing will then write a report about you and send it to the governor. They will also send information about any offences you have committed with the report.

You will probably not get all the days back. But you may be able to apply again later to get more back.

Useful policy documents:

PSI 05/2018 Prisoner Discipline Procedures

Information sheets

Prisoners’ Advice Service information sheet ‘Adjudications’
Prisoners’ Advice Service information sheet ‘ Judicial Review ’

Skip to main content
Skip to navigation

legislation.gov.uk

Browse Legislation
New Legislation
Coronavirus Legislation
Changes To Legislation

Search Legislation

The prison rules 1999, you are here:.

UK Statutory Instruments
1999 No. 728
Table of contents
Table of Contents

Print Options

What version.

Latest available (Revised)
Original (As made)

Opening Options

Open whole Instrument
Open Instrument without Schedules
Open Schedules only

More Resources

This is the original version (as it was originally made).

Introductory Text

1. Citation and commencement

2. Interpretation

PART II PRISONERS

3. Purpose of prison training and treatment

4. Outside contacts

5. After care

6. Maintenance of order and discipline

7. Classification of prisoners

8. Privileges

9. Temporary release

10. Information to prisoners

11. Requests and complaints

WOMEN PRISONERS

12. Women prisoners

13. Religious denomination

14. Special duties of chaplains and prison ministers

15. Regular visits by ministers of religion

16. Religious services

17. Substitute for chaplain or prison minister

18. Sunday work

19. Religious books

MEDICAL ATTENTION

20. Medical attendance

21. Special illnesses and conditions

22. Notification of illness or death

PHYSICAL WELFARE AND WORK

23. Clothing

25. Alcohol and tobacco

26. Sleeping accommodation

27. Beds and bedding

28. Hygiene

29. Physical education

30. Time in the open air

EDUCATION AND LIBRARY

32. Education

33. Library

COMMUNICATIONS

34. Communications generally

35. Personal letters and visits

36. Police interviews

37. Securing release

38. Legal advisers

39. Correspondence with legal advisers and courts

REMOVAL, SEARCH, RECORD AND PROPERTY

40. Custody outside prison

42. Record and photograph

43. Prisoners' property

44. Money and articles received by post

SPECIAL CONTROL, SUPERVISION AND RESTRAINT AND DRUG TESTING

45. Removal from association

46. Close supervision centres

47. Use of force

48. Temporary confinement

49. Restraints

50. Compulsory testing for controlled drugs

OFFENCES AGAINST DISCIPLINE

51. Offences against discipline

52. Defences to rule 51(9)

53. Disciplinary charges

54. Rights of prisoners charged

55. Governor’s punishments

56. Forfeiture of remission to be treated as an award of additional days

57. Offences committed by young persons

58. Cellular confinement

59. Prospective award of additional days

60. Suspended punishments

61. Remission and mitigation of punishments and quashing of findings of guilt

PART III OFFICERS OR PRISONS

62. General duty of officers

63. Gratuities forbidden

64. Search of officers

65. Transactions with prisoners

66. Contact with former prisoners

67. Communications to the press

68. Code of discipline

69. Emergencies

PART IV PERSONS HAVING ACCESS TO A PRISON

70. Prohibited articles

71. Control of persons and vehicles

72. Viewing of prisons

73. Visitors

PART V BOARDS OF VISITORS

74. Disqualification for membership

75. Board of visitors

76. Proceedings of boards

77. General duties of boards

78. Particular duties

79. Members visiting prisons

80. Annual report

PART VI SUPPLEMENTAL

81. Delegation by governor

82. Contracted out prisons

83. Contracted out parts of prisons

84. Contracted out functions at directly managed prisons

85. Revocations and savings

Explanatory Note

Options/Help

Print table of contents.

PDF table of contents
Web page table of contents

Print The Whole Instrument

PDF The Whole Instrument
Web page The Whole Instrument

Legislation is available in different versions:

Latest Available (revised): The latest available updated version of the legislation incorporating changes made by subsequent legislation and applied by our editorial team. Changes we have not yet applied to the text, can be found in the ‘Changes to Legislation’ area.

Original (As Enacted or Made): The original version of the legislation as it stood when it was enacted or made. No changes have been applied to the text.

Different options to open legislation in order to view more content on screen at once

Access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item from this tab. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:

the original print PDF of the as enacted version that was used for the print copy
lists of changes made by and/or affecting this legislation item
confers power and blanket amendment details
all formats of all associated documents
correction slips
links to related legislation and further information resources
New site design
Accessibility
Privacy Notice

Leavenworth prison union says staffing shortages are the real cause of ongoing ‘lockdown’

Signs on a van demand the end of a lockdown at a federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas.

Families have been blocked from visiting inmates since March 1. A union president for prison staff believes an investigation justifying the tightened rules is dragging on as a way to circumvent the union’s contract.

The president of a labor union representing employees at the federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas, alleges prison officials are letting an investigation into a firearm entering the facility drag on as a way to circumvent the staffing rules in the union’s contract.

Russ Gildner, union president for the American Federation of Government Employees Local 919, said the prison is understaffed by about 30 positions. He said by going into emergency operations, prison leaders can bypass the union’s contract and order staff, like counselors and other positions, to serve as prison guards.

“Staff that work in education and recreation,” Gildner said, “are being reassigned and are performing work as officers.”

Gildner said that means that the prison is not currently offering programs like educational classes during the lockdown. That contradicts previous statements from prison officials that said inmates still have access to those programs amid the investigation.

The Associated Press reported in 2021 that nearly one-third of the correctional officer positions at federal prisons were vacant and prison officials used cooks, teachers and nurses to serve as corrections officers who guard inmates.

Prison officials said the Leavenworth facility that houses about 1,800 inmates is in what’s called modified operations because of the investigation. Families of inmates say it’s effectively a lockdown. Officials suspended visits since March 1 and restricted inmates' movement within the facility. The Federal Bureau of Prisons also brought in outside staff to assist in the investigation.

A sign in front of the Leavenworth federal prison shows that it is under surveillance.

Amid the investigation, friends or family members of inmates have had little contact with their loved ones who are housed at the Leavenworth facility. They have gone more than a month without talking to them and have only been able to communicate through rarely mailed letters from the inmates.

The Kansas City Star reports the inmates are living in inhumane conditions, with some getting little food and others losing access to water.

Sara Kesler, an official for the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ North Central Regional Office, previously said the modified operations mean the prison has changed inmates’ movement within the prison and changed access to prison programs and services. The prison warden may add temporary security measures to make sure the prison remains safe and in order.

Gildner said the prison using modified operations allows officials to claim the facility is in an emergency under false pretenses.

“They just created this term ‘modified operations,’” Gildner said, “like it gives them some sort of right to circumvent that collective bargaining agreement.”

Kesler said in an email that the prison stands by its original statement and declined to comment on Gildner’s allegations.

Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran’s office said in an emailed statement to the Kansas News Service that he has been briefed on the situation and he has been in contact with both the prison officials and the union.

“(I) have been assured that there will be operational changes at USP Leavenworth in the coming days,” Moran said in the statement. “I have heard from Kansans who are concerned about the welfare of their loved ones incarcerated at the federal penitentiary, and I will continue to monitor the situation.”

Meanwhile, families of inmates continue to have very little contact with their loved ones who are housed at the facility. They held rallies outside of the prison, yet still have not been satisfied with answers from prison officials on when the lockdown will be lifted.

Tricia Brown, whose fiance is housed in Leavenworth, said she’s called prison officials multiple times but no one will let her know when she may be able to contact her fiance again.

“It’s like pulling teeth,” Brown said.

Dylan Lysen reports on social services and criminal justice for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Threads @DylanLysen or email him at dlysen (at) kcur (dot) org.

The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

Kansas News Service stories and photos may be republished by news media at no cost with proper attribution and a link to ksnewsservice.org .

2024-25 men's NCAA basketball transfer portal tracker: updates

Graduate of University of Delaware. Follow on X

Transfer portal season has become the busiest two months of the college basketball calendar. Entire rosters fall apart and get rebuilt in mere weeks, with some teams needing to go into the portal for 10 or 11 players. Coaching staffs spend two or three years recruiting high school players, and now, they spend two or three weeks -- sometimes less -- recruiting transfers.

There will be upward of 2,000 players in the portal by the time it closes for undergraduate students on May 1. The vast majority will find a new home in a similar timeframe.

It's a lot to digest.

Just like the coaching carousel tracker , we're going to have a constantly updated transfer portal tracker this offseason. Find all of the latest intel and buzz on the available players in the portal. School lists, visit plans, target boards -- all of the movement will be discussed here.

Keep track of ESPN's ranking of the top 100 transfers here .

Duke loses seventh player to the portal

Sean Stewart , a former top-20 recruit, announced he's entering the transfer portal Friday. Stewart came out of high school with a reputation as an elite rebounder but failed to carve out a consistent role in Durham. He averaged 2.6 points and 3.2 rebounds in 33 games off the bench.

Outlook: Stewart follows Jeremy Roach , Mark Mitchell , TJ Power , Jaylen Blakes , Christian Reeves and Jaden Schutt , while Kyle Filipowski and Jared McCain left for the NBA and Ryan Young is out of eligibility. Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster are the lone returnees for Jon Scheyer who is, however, bringing in a six-man recruiting class ranked No. 1 in the country.

Top-50 transfer Adou Thiero down to five schools

The 6-foot-8 Kentucky forward has cut his list to five schools, sources told ESPN: Pitt , North Carolina , Arkansas , Indiana and Kentucky. Thiero started 19 games this season for the Wildcats, bringing energy and explosiveness to the frontcourt. He averaged 7.2 points and 5.0 rebounds.

Outlook: The projected first-round pick in ESPN's 2025 mock draft entered the portal before John Calipari left Lexington for Arkansas, so it's interesting to see the Razorbacks make his final list. And Kentucky fans will be pleased to see a potential return to Lexington is still possible. Pitt has quietly had some buzz for a couple weeks due to Thiero being from the Pittsburgh suburbs.

Drexel 's Amari Williams down to three schools, visiting Kentucky

Williams has cut his list to St. John's , Kentucky and Mississippi State , his agent told ESPN. The 6-10 big man is one of the best interior defenders in the portal, winning CAA Defensive Player of the Year three times and earning first-team All-CAA honors this past season. He averaged 12.2 points and 7.8 rebounds.

Outlook: Williams will take his final visit to Kentucky this weekend, and the Wildcats could badly use an experienced post defender to anchor their frontcourt. They've made a strong push in recent days under new coach Mark Pope, but St. John's remains involved, and Williams would be a good fit at Mississippi State given Chris Jans' defensive history.

Chucky Hepburn becomes latest Wisconsin departure

Shortly after AJ Storr committed to Kansas, Wisconsin took another hit: Three-year starter Chucky Hepburn is transferring. Hepburn started 103 games for Greg Gard, averaging 9.2 points and 3.9 assists this past season. He put up 12.2 points and shot 40.5% from 3-point range in 2022-23.

Outlook: Aside from Hepburn's next destination, the story here is Wisconsin losing another key contributor to the portal. In addition to Storr and Hepburn, the Badgers have also lost Connor Essegian , who saw a diminished role this past season after a delayed start due to injury but averaged 11.7 points as a freshman in 2022-23. Gard hasn't landed a player from the portal yet -- and one of the Badgers' top targets, Frankie Fidler , was a high school teammate of Hepburn's.

Kansas lands AJ Storr

Storr, the No. 3 player in ESPN's transfer rankings, committed on Thursday . He was a second-team All-Big Ten selection after averaging 16.8 points and 3.9 rebounds in leading Wisconsin to the conference tournament title game and a 5-seed in the NCAA tournament.

Outlook: Bill Self has added some much-needed playmaking and shot-making -- a major concern for the Jayhawks during the 2023-24 campaign. Storr is the third perimeter addition, following South Dakota State's Zeke Mayo , the Summit League Player of the Year, and Florida's Riley Kugel , a mercurial but talented wing with NBA potential. The Jayhawks are also still in the mix for Alabama transfer Rylan Griffen .

UConn finds its Donovan Clingan replacement

The Huskies clearly needed a big man this cycle in the portal, and they landed Michigan Wolverines transfer Tarris Reed Jr . on Wednesday. Reed visited Storrs this past weekend and ended his recruitment shortly after leaving. He's a former ESPN 100 prospect who averaged 9.0 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocks this past season.

Outlook: Dan Hurley essentially needs to rebuild the starting lineup that won the Huskies their second consecutive national title. Tristen Newton and Cam Spencer are out of eligibility, while Stephon Castle and Clingan could be NBA draft lottery picks. UConn is targeting a big man and at least one perimeter player. With Reed now in the fold, Hurley can turn toward guards and wings.

God got me...I ain't stressin 😮‍💨 #Committed pic.twitter.com/dwrbVsOFGz — Tarris"Big Hoss" Reed Jr. (@TarrisReedJr) April 17, 2024

Jeremy Roach announces portal intentions

A big-name point guard just went on the market. Duke senior Jeremy Roach announced Tuesday he plans to enter the transfer portal and the NBA draft, which suddenly makes available one of the best and most experienced point guards in the country.

Outlook: Roach started 108 games over four seasons with the Blue Devils, earning third-team All-ACC honors this past season. He averaged career-highs across the board, putting up 14.0 points, 3.3 assists and shooting 42.9% from 3-point range. This move has been speculated for several weeks, with a long list of schools linked as potential landing spots: Syracuse , Villanova , Georgetown , Arkansas , Baylor , Ole Miss and more.

Read more: Jeremy Roach to enter draft, 5th Duke player to enter portal

The No. 1 transfer is off the board: Oumar Ballo commits to Indiana

After initially setting multiple visits, the Arizona transfer didn't even get off Indiana's campus before ending his recruitment and telling ESPN he's committing to the Hoosiers. A two-time first-team All-Pac-12 selection, the No. 1 transfer has been one of the dominant big men in the country under Tommy Lloyd. He averaged 12.9 points and 10.1 rebounds this season.

Outlook: How Mike Woodson uses Malik Reneau and Ballo together will be interesting, given both players prefer to operate around the basket. It's also worth taking a quick look at where the other programs in pursuit of Ballo will turn. North Carolina could look at Danny Wolf and Jonas Aidoo , while Louisville is battling Kentucky for Aly Khalifa . Arkansas just landed Zvonimir Ivisic .

Read more: Oumar Ballo, top player in transfer portal, picks Indiana

Horizon League POY Trey Townsend sets visits

Townsend, who helped lead Oakland to a first-round NCAA tournament win over Kentucky with 17 points and 12 rebounds, has set the rest of his visit schedule, according to his agent George Langberg of GSL Sports Group. Townsend is currently on campus at Arizona, then will visit Ohio State on Thursday and Friday and finish up with a trip to Louisville this weekend. He also recently visited Michigan.

Outlook: Townsend is one of the most productive mid-major transfers in the portal. He averaged 17.3 points and 8.1 rebounds this season and was able to perform at a high level in big games. The 6-foot-6 power forward went for 28 points against Xavier, 19 points and 10 rebounds against Illinois, 30 points and 13 rebounds against NC State and also had 38 points in the Horizon tournament title game.

The first Lexington-to-Fayetteville move

Kentucky transfer Zvonimir Ivisic announced Monday he's committing to Arkansas , following John Calipari to the Razorbacks. Ivisic is the first player to officially follow Calipari to Fayetteville, but he likely won't be the last.

Outlook: Ivisic, a 7-foot-2 center from Croatia, has an incredibly high ceiling due to his offensive skill set. He can make shots from the perimeter, run the floor and is an adept shot-blocker at the other end. He had 13 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 blocks and 2 steals in 16 minutes off the bench in his first college game against Georgia, and averaged 5.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 15 games as a freshman.

Read more: Zvonimir Ivisic to transfer from Kentucky to Arkansas

Texas starters entering portal

After a weekend that saw Rodney Terry land three players from the portal -- Indiana State exports Julian Larry and Jayson Kent , and Arkansas transfer Tramon Mark -- Monday brought the fallout. Tyrese Hunter and Dillon Mitchell , two Texas starters, are planning to enter the transfer portal.

Outlook: Hunter has started 106 games in three college seasons at Texas and Iowa State and had the best offensive season of his career in 2023-24, putting up 11.1 points and 4.1 assists. Mitchell, meanwhile, is a versatile frontcourt player who took major strides as a sophomore, averaging 9.6 points and 7.5 rebounds. The news comes on the heels of top-50 recruit Cam Scott requesting a release from his letter of intent to Texas to reopen his recruitment.

Read more: Texas loses starters Tyrese Hunter, Dillon Mitchell to transfer portal

D.J. Wagner enters portal

Wagner, a former top-five recruit, was a household name in the high school ranks who originally chose Kentucky over Louisville after an intense recruiting process between the two schools. But the 6-foot-4 New Jersey native had an uneven freshman season: putting up big numbers during the first half then finishing with single-digit scoring output in 10 of his final 13 games. Averaged 9.9 points and 3.3 assists.

Outlook: It's unclear where Wagner will look to continue his college career. He still has NBA hype, projected as a second-round pick if he opted to enter this year's draft. He could follow former Kentucky coach John Calipari to Arkansas but he's expected to have an open recruitment. Despite his up-and-down freshman campaign, he's one of the most dynamic guards in the portal.

Read more: Kentucky freshman D.J. Wagner entering transfer portal

Aaron Bradshaw commits to Ohio State

The former top-10 recruit had a delayed start to his Kentucky career due to a foot injury suffered last spring, but eventually made an impact once on the floor 00 including a double-double against Penn in his second game. Didn't have a consistent role down the stretch of the season though, barely playing in the SEC and NCAA tournaments. Averaged 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds.

Outlook: Despite the middling numbers, Bradshaw's ceiling makes him an intriguing addition for new head coach Jake Diebler. He can run the floor, he has some skill with the ball in his hands and he can finish around the rim and block shots. What does this mean for the other teams in the mix for Bradshaw? North Carolina was hoping to get him on campus and now the Tar Heels might have to turn to Yale transfer Danny Wolf .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aaron Bradshaw (@aaron_bradshaw23)

Indiana landed Rice, looking for others in portal

Mike Woodson is wasting no time rebuilding his roster after a down year in Bloomington. The Hoosiers already landed Washington State 's Myles Rice , one of the best point guards in the portal.

Outlook: They're also expected to host Stanford 's Kanaan Carlyle for a visit this week. Carlyle is a former top-50 recruit capable of explosive performances. Neither Rice nor Carlyle is a knockdown shooter, but Indiana is also pursuing Connor Hickman ( Bradley ) and Ryan Conwell ( Indiana State ) to fill that role. Up front, the top target is No. 1 overall transfer Oumar Ballo . The Arizona big man is expected to visit Bloomington this week, and Indiana is thought to be in a pretty good spot. Should Ballo leave his visit without committing, the Hoosiers could turn to Drexel 's Amari Williams , who also visits later in the week. Ballo is the far superior offensive player, but Williams is a three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year.

Take a look at the numbers behind Michigan's hire of former Florida Atlantic basketball coach Dusty May.

Dusty May has Michigan in the mix for several top targets

May didn't have a completely empty cupboard in Ann Arbor when he took over for Juwan Howard , and George Washington III added to the returnees when he opted to remove his name from the transfer portal and stay at Michigan. But the former Florida Atlantic coach is looking to build a competitive roster in year one, and he's taking some big swings in the portal.

Outlook: At the top of the target list: two of his former FAU players in Johnell Davis -- arguably the top perimeter player in the portal -- and center Vladislav Goldin . Houston was also pursuing Davis, but the Cougars landed Milos Uzan over the weekend; is Kelvin Sampson's program still in play? Michigan is also in the mix for Yale 's Danny Wolf , a first-team All-Ivy selection this past season. While the Wolverines are likely the leader for both Goldin and Wolf as things stand, the first 7-foot center to commit might send the other elsewhere -- or perhaps they battle it out once they get to campus. Oakland 's Trey Townsend , who posted dominant numbers against high-major competition this past season, was set to visit Ann Arbor on Sunday, too. On the perimeter, Michigan is perceived as the leader for Auburn 's transfer Tre Donaldson . Ohio State 's Roddy Gayle Jr . is expected to visit Ann Arbor soon, too. Keep an eye on another Auburn transfer, Aden Holloway . His sister, Mila Holloway, is signed to play basketball at Michigan next season.

North Carolina 's big man pursuit

It's clear that Hubert Davis and the Tar Heels want a true 5-man from the portal this spring. Armando Bacot has used up his eligibility, James Okonkwo barely played and already hit the portal, and Jalen Washington is the lone option remaining for that position.

Outlook: Former top-10 prospect Aaron Bradshaw was expected to visit Ohio State this past weekend, but UNC is heavily in the mix and has him near or at the top of the target list.The Tar Heels are also battling a handful of schools for Oumar Ballo . Will Ballo get through his visits to Indiana, Louisville and Kansas State , though? Rutgers ' Clifford Omoruyi , one of the best defensive players in the country, has had communication with North Carolina, as has the aforementioned Danny Wolf . Could the Tar Heels make a run at Tennessee 's Jonas Aidoo , too? Aidoo, who entered the portal late last week, is a Durham native.

Middle East latest: 'Unknown airstrike' on Iraqi military base; Iranian minister laughs off attack on country

Injuries and "material losses" have been reported after a large explosion at a military base in Iraq. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister dismissed the apparent Israeli attack as ineffective in an interview with Sky News' US partner NBC News.

Saturday 20 April 2024 07:32, UK

Israel-Hamas war

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

What we know so far about Israel's apparent attack on Iran
Iran has 'no plan for immediate retaliation'
Blinken refuses to talk about Israel's reported attack
Man arrested at Iranian consulate in Paris
Worshippers in Tehran chant 'death to Israel'
Analysis: This strike has escalation written all over it
Analysis: Iran isn't biggest threat to the coalition right now
Live reporting by Narbeh Minassian

A blast at an Iraqi military base came from an airstrike from an unknown source, two security sources have told Reuters news agency.

Injuries and "material losses" have been reported after the explosion at the Kalsu facility in the city of Babylon, which is about 30 miles (50km) south of the capital Baghdad.

A US official said it wasn't caused by American military operations.

The base is used by Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an umbrella group of dozens of armed groups, and is home to its chief of staff.

One PMF fighter was killed and six were wounded, according to sources at the nearby hospital in Hilla.

The group did not confirm any deaths in its initial statement, adding: "An explosion occurred at the headquarters of the Popular Mobilization Forces at the Kalsu military base in the al Mashrou district on the highway, north of Babil Governorate.

"An investigation team immediately arrived at the scene, and the explosion caused material losses and injuries.

"We will provide you with the details once the preliminary investigation is completed."

Factions within the PMF took part in rocket and drone attacks on US forces in Iraq in the early months of Israel's Gaza offensive.

However, the group stopped the attacks in early February.

Welcome to our live coverage of the Israel-Hamas war and wider tensions in the Middle East.

Today we'll be watching for further reaction to an apparent Israeli attack on Iran in the early hours of Friday.

Both sides appeared to downplay the strike, with Iran initially saying it was an "infiltration" rather than an attack.

It also claimed drones had been used - although our military analyst Professor Michael Clarke said it was almost certain ballistic missiles were used.

He explained both sides are trying to "save face", with neither wanting an escalation.

Comments from Iranian officials in the aftermath suggest Tehran is unlikely to retaliate.

Overnight, an explosion was reported at an Iraqi military base, with the cause still unconfirmed.

Meanwhile, the US has remained tight-lipped on the matter - something that raised questions over whether this is part of a de-escalation strategy.

Before we bring you today's news, here are more updates from the last 24 hours:

A man was arrested at the Iranian consulate in Paris after threatening to blow himself up - although it was later discovered he was not carrying any explosives
Worshippers in Iran's capital chanted "death to Israel" after Friday prayers, in a demonstration hours after the apparent Israeli strike
The Met Police issued an apology after two of its officers were criticised for threatening to arrest a Jewish man near a pro-Palestinian march
Airlines changed their flight paths, cancelled flights and diverted others to alternate airports following Israel's attack on Iran
Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy appeared to criticise a double standard from Western allies, saying Israel was not left to fend for itself when attacked.

An Israeli retired major general has said he doesn't believe Israel's overnight attack on Iran is a "very significant event".

Major General Giora Eiland, the former head of the Israeli National Security Council, said the strike showed Israel can reach "even sensitive places" but it had tried to "do it way that both sides can be satisfied".

He told Sky's World with Yalda Hakim programme that he doesn't "predict real escalation after this".

Asked whether Israel's message had been received in Iran, he said countries will try to emphasise their success and minimise the success of the other side.

He added that in attacking Israel, Iran had created an international coalition against itself - "something they certainly don't want to see".

We've been hearing from our military analyst Professor Michael Clarke , who says the overnight attacks on Iran appear to be the Israelis "going after certain targets directly linked to n[Tehran's] attack last weekend".

It's not been confirmed yet, but he says Israel almost certainly used ballistic missiles - rather than the drones than Iran says were used.

"The Iranians have an interest in saying it was almost certainly a one-off attack, it was drones, it didn't matter," Professor Clarke says.

This "relieves them of the responsibility of being so outraged they have to do something even more decisive", he says.

Both sides are now "trying to save face".

Professor Clarke says Israel wanted to carry out an attack, but not one that would upset its allies too much.

Meanwhile Iran is being "careful not to overplay" Israel's attack.

We reported earlier today on a tweet from Israel's national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir, calling the attack on Iran overnight "lame".

Channel 12 is now reporting a confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached out to the far-right politician to tell him he was harming Israel's national security.

However, the network added he is unlikely to face further repercussions as Mr Netanyahu is reliant on him to remain in power.

Mr Ben Gvir is among the Israeli hardliners calling for a harsher response to Iran and more brutal measures in Gaza.

The Israeli prime minister remains in a tough spot as he is facing calls for de-escalation from Western allies, but he also needs to appease hardliners within his government to stay in power.

The Met Police has retracted its previous statement about two of its officers, who were heavily criticised for threatening to arrest a Jewish man near a pro-Palestinian march.

The officers said the antisemitism campaigner, who was wearing a kippah skull cap, was "quite openly Jewish" so they were concerned about the reaction to his presence near the march.

The Met said it had "reflected on the strength of the response to our previous statement" and wished to make a new apology.

In its earlier statement, the force had said the use of the term "openly Jewish" was a "poor choice of words and while not intended, we know it will have caused offence to many".

It continued: "In recent weeks we've seen a new trend emerge, with those opposed to the main protests appearing along the route to express their views.

"The fact that those who do this often film themselves while doing so suggests they must know that their presence is provocative, that they're inviting a response and that they're increasing the likelihood of an altercation."

But this statement was criticised by the antisemitism campaigner in the video, Gideon Falter, who accused the force of "appalling victim blaming".

"What has dented Jewish Londoners' confidence in the Met is not us making this video public, but the actions of the Met's officers telling me that I cannot be in the area whilst openly Jewish," he said.

"The assistant commissioner appears to be saying that we should have taken this on the chin and kept the video under wraps."

Here is the new statement in full:

"The use of the term 'openly Jewish' by one of our officers is hugely regrettable. We know it will have caused offence to many. We reiterate our apology.

"We have reflected on the strength of the response to our previous statement. In an effort to make a point about the policing of protest we caused further offence. This was never our intention. We have removed that statement and we apologise.

"Being Jewish is not a provocation. Jewish Londoners must be able to feel safe in this city.

"Our commitment to protecting the public extends to all communities across London. It's important that our public statements reflect that more clearly than they did today."

US officials are continuing their silence on the apparent Israeli attack on Iran overnight.

In a news conference just now, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked whether this is part of a strategy to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East.

She said she has "nothing to share" and was "not going to speculate on reportings".

Ms Jean-Pierre said the US does not want to see the conflict escalate and will continue to consult with partners.

Israeli fighter jets launched three missiles at an air defence radar site near the Iranian city of Isfahan in last night's overnight strike, according to a report.

ABC News, citing an unnamed US official, said the radar site was part of the protection of Iran's Natanz nuclear facility.

The official reportedly said the missiles were fired from outside Iran and the strike was "very limited".

They also said an initial assessment showed the radar site was taken out, but the assessment has not yet been completed.

Iran earlier said three drones were involved in the attack on Isfahan, and made no mention of any missiles or damage.

The US has publicly said very little about the attack, apart from confirming it was not involved.

By Alex Rossi , international correspondent on the Israel-Lebanon border

The roads through northern Israel along the border with Lebanon are empty of cars.

It is unnervingly quiet.

Since 7 October the area has been under bombardment from Hezbollah militants and tens of thousands of people have left following the government's evacuation rules.

Ariel Frish, the deputy head of security, in Kiryat Shmona, a frontline city, shows me the damage in a residential area.

A house is gutted from fire caused by the explosion from the strike.

"We got attacked by a great wave of missiles, one of the missiles hit this house," he said.

"Nobody was here because we evacuated the city one week before. And if we had not evacuated there would be no survivors.”

The Israel Defence Forces and Hezbollah have been exchanging fire on a daily basis in the north for more than six months - and it feels like a full scale war may not be far away.

Walking through the communities in the north is eerie.

You can hear the sound of birdsong and the constant noise of drones and warplanes circling overhead.

A short distance from the Lebanese border and former IDF commander, Gideon Harari, who lives in one of the communities in the line of fire, says a major confrontation is looking more likely every day.

The situation with Iran and the standoff with Hezbollah, as well as the war in Gaza, make this an incredibly dangerous time for the region.

"The shooting is daily. Rockets, drones every day," he said.

"Now is the most dangerous point in the Middle East for the last forty years. If Israel will take military measures against Iran it might drive us into a Middle East war, a big war."

The internally displaced have moved to hotels and guesthouses in safer parts of Israel.

In Tiberias the evacuees can only wonder when it will be safe to return.

"The mood of the people in Israel is very frustrated. And it is very dangerous to live here," says Daniel Boker, who left his hometown of Metula on the border, months ago.

Tensions are now the highest they've been for decades and that's reflected in the preparations Israel is making.

The national ambulance service, Magen David Adom, has been stockpiling equipment in an underground facility. Chief of staff Uri Shacham, tells me 7 October has changed everything.

"We are preparing for a long-term campaign or long-term war," he said.

"If you had talked to me in September 2023, I would have said we have a supply for one month.

"Nowadays, because of what we are expecting, [we are] preparing... many more month's [worth] of equipment."

Israel now faces crisis on multiple fronts but it is clear the current situation in the north is increasingly untenable.

It will not take much for a broader war to break out.

By Sam Doak, OSINT reporter

A video showing explosions in the sky above Isfahan provides further information on last night's attack in Iran.

Sky News determined the video was filmed next to Laleh Park in the northeast of the city by matching features including a road, park, flagpole and three cylindrical structures.

This made it possible to determine the video shows explosions in the sky to the east of the city.

While this video does not contain enough information to tell with certainty what site was targeted, explosions in this general area fit with accounts in Iranian media that a base adjoining Isfahan International Airport was attacked.

This base is located to the northeast of Isfahan. Fars News Agency, a regime-aligned Iranian outlet, has claimed that three explosions occurred near this site as a result of last night's attack. No substantial damage has been reported.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Blog Department of Health and Social Care Media Centre

https://healthmedia.blog.gov.uk/2024/04/15/creating-a-smokefree-generation-and-tackling-youth-vaping-what-you-need-to-know/

Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping: what you need to know

The Prime Minister has set out plans to build a better and brighter future for our children.

This includes the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which was announced in the King’s speech on 7 November 2023 and introduced to Parliament on 20 March 2024. The Bill is now due to have its second reading on 16 April 2024.

The Bill includes a new law to stop children who turn 15 this year or younger from ever legally being sold cigarettes or other tobacco products, alongside measures to crack down on youth vaping and strengthen enforcement of these new laws.

This is in addition to a broader package of measures to tackle youth vaping – including banning the sale and supply of disposable vapes under environmental legislation and the new excise duty on vaping products announced in the Spring Budget.

Here’s what you need to know.

What are the key measures that have been announced?

We will create the first smoke-free generation so children turning 15 this year or younger will never be legally sold tobacco. The age of sale will be raised by one year each year to prevent future generations from ever taking up smoking, as there is no safe age to smoke.

To reduce the appeal of vapes to children, we also announced that new powers will be introduced to restrict vape flavours and packaging. The powers will also allow government to change how vapes are displayed in shops.

To crack down on underage sales, the government will also bring in quicker and simpler £100 on the spot fines (fixed penalty fines) for shops in England and Wales which sell tobacco and vapes underage. Local authorities will retain 100% of the proceeds to reinvest into enforcement of this Bill and other existing tobacco and vaping controls. This builds on a maximum £2,500 fine that the courts can already impose.

Vaping alternatives - such as nicotine pouches - will also be outlawed for children who are increasingly turning to these highly addictive substitutes.

Will the new laws impact current smokers?

The new laws will not impact current smokers. If you were born before 1 January 2009 shops will be able to continue selling you cigarettes and tobacco.

Will this lead to an illicit market?

No. History shows that targeted tobacco control measures have a positive impact on tackling the problems of illicit tobacco. For example, when the smoking age was increased from 16 to 18 the number of illicit cigarettes consumed fell by 25%.

The government is also providing additional powers and funding for enforcement to ensure the laws are effective.

How will the legislation be enforced?

Under the Bill, enforcement officers’ powers will also be strengthened with new powers in England and Wales to issue ‘on the spot fines’ of £100 to retailers breaching the law. This will help uphold the new laws and clamp down on underage sales of tobacco and vaping products.

These new powers to issue Fixed Penalty notices are in addition to a maximum £2,500 fine that courts can already impose.

The government will also be providing an additional £30 million a year for enforcement agencies to support work on underage and illicit sales of tobacco products and vapes.

Does this encroach on freedom of choice?

This is not about criminalising those who smoke or preventing anyone who currently smokes from doing so. Smoking will never be illegal and if you currently smoke legally, retailers will continue to be able to sell you cigarettes and other tobacco products.

But no parent wants their child to start smoking. This is about protecting future generations from the harms of smoking, saving thousands of lives and billions for the NHS.

Surely this isn't a big issue - people don't smoke anymore?

Smoking is still the number one preventable cause of death, disability and ill health, causing around 80,000 deaths per year across the UK.

Smoking rates in older teens remain high – over 12% of 16- to 17-year-olds smoke in England and over 30% of under 18 pregnant mother smoke. In recent years, the USA and Australia have seen the proportion of teenagers that smoke increase for the first time in decades.

Tobacco is uniquely harmful – there is no safe level of smoking. No other consumer product, when used as intended, kills two thirds of its long-term users and 75% of smokers would never have started if they had the choice again. It causes 1 in 4 cancer deaths.

Non-smokers are exposed to second-hand smoke – many come to harm through no choice of their own, including children, pregnant women and their babies.

The Bill will save thousands of lives. It will avoid up to 470,000 cases of strokes, heart disease, lung cancer and other lung diseases by 2100.

What about the tax revenue from tobacco?

Smoking costs the economy and wider society £17 billion a year, which far outweighs the income per year that the Treasury receives from taxes on tobacco products.

Smoking costs to our NHS and social care system alone £3 billion every year – this is money that we can reinvest into cutting waiting lists and bolstering frontline care. Almost every minute someone is admitted to hospital because of smoking, and up to 75,000 GP appointments could be attributed to smoking each month – over 100 appointments every hour.

Is any type of tobacco product safe?

There is no safe level of tobacco consumption. All tobacco products are harmful. Making this clear in legislation by including all tobacco products will help regulators, businesses and the public comply with the new laws.

Who has been consulted on this issue?

The government consulted on the measures in the Bill for 8 weeks from 12 October to 6 December 2023.

Nearly 28,000 responses were submitted in total and the majority of respondents (63.2%) agreed with implementing the smokefree generation policy. The consultation response can be viewed here: Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping: your views - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

The UK is party to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and has an obligation to protect the development of public health policy from the vested interests of the tobacco industry. To meet this obligation, we asked all respondents to disclose whether they have any direct or indirect links to, or receive funding from, the tobacco industry.

In line with the Convention, the views of respondents who disclosed links to the tobacco industry were summarised in the response, but not considered when determining policy.

When will the Smokefree Generation come into force?

The Smokefree Generation policy will come into force in 2027 when current 15-year-olds turn 18. This will mean there will be a significant implementation period between the Bill being passed and the restrictions coming into force.

Will the Bill be enforced UK wide?

Thanks to constructive engagement from colleagues across the Devolved Administrations, these measures will apply not just in England, but across our entire United Kingdom – saving lives and building a brighter future.

What is the danger of children using vapes?

Children should never vape. The number of children using vapes has tripled in the last three years.

The active ingredient in most vapes is nicotine, which when inhaled, is a highly addictive drug. The addictive nature of nicotine means that a user can become dependent on vapes, especially if they use them regularly.

We have a duty to protect children from these potential harms, which is why we will be banning disposable vapes and bringing forward measures in the Bill to restrict vape flavours, displays and packaging. Reusable and refillable vapes will continue to play a valuable role in helping adults to stop smoking.

What about vape displays in shops, packaging and flavours?

Vapes have become highly appealing products for children because of the wide range of flavours, bright colours, use of cartoons and highly visible points of display in shops. Our new legislation will introduce powers to regulate the display of vapes, packaging and flavours.

The purpose of addressing these issues is to prevent the marketing of vaping to children.

Before using these powers, we will be undertaking a further consultation on the specific measures.

What else are you doing to tackle youth vaping?

The measures in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill are part of a broader package of measures to tackle youth vaping – including banning the sale and supply of disposable vapes under environmental legislation and the new excise duty on vaping products announced in the Spring Budget.

Why are disposable vapes an issue?

Being cheap and easy to use, disposable vapes are also the vape of choice for children with 69% of current vapers aged 11 to 17 in Great Britain using disposable vapes (up from 7.7% in 2021). The evidence is clear that vapes should not be used by, or targeted at, children– due to the risk and unknown harms involved. That is why the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has said disposable vapes should be banned.

There are serious environmental concerns over disposable vapes. Over 5 million disposable vapes are either littered or thrown away in general waste every week. This has quadrupled in the last year.

That is why we the UK Government, the Scottish Government and the Welsh Government intend to introduce legislation to implement a ban on the sale and supply of disposable vapes. The UK Government will also work with the devolved administrations to explore an import ban.

When will the disposable vape ban come into effect?

England, Scotland and Wales intend to bring in legislation as soon as possible. Any legislation taken forward will allow for an implementation period of at least six months, which takes into consideration concerns that businesses will require time to adapt.

What steps are being taken to address the potential emergence of a black market for disposable vapes?

We will support retailers to implement the new requirements by increasing funding for enforcement – government has announced £30 million extra funding per year for enforcement agencies including HMRC, Trading Standards and Border Force, to tackle the illicit market and underage sales.

Who is going to enforce this ban?

Trading Standards will lead on enforcing the ban within their local area.

It is expected that enforcement authorities would apply civil sanctions in the first instance and a failure to comply may result in authorities prosecuting for a criminal offence subject to a fine only after a failure to comply with a civil sanction.

Are you not worried that a ban on disposable vapes will turn adults towards smoking?

No. Adults who vape responsibly will be able to continue to do so.

We are not banning vapes as a whole, just disposable vapes – given the huge impact they have on the environment. Banning disposables will also prevent young people from accessing them.

Adult vapers will still be able to access refillable and reusable vapes.

We recognise the important part vapes can play in helping people quit smoking. As part of the government’s Swap to Stop scheme, almost one in five of all adult smokers in England will have access to a reusable vape kit alongside behavioural support to help them quit the habit and improve health outcomes.

Key facts on smoking and vaping

Smoking is the single biggest entirely preventable cause of ill-health, disability and death. It leads to 80,000 deaths a year in the UK, and is responsible for 1 in 4 cancer deaths, and over 70% of lung cancer cases. Smokers lose an average of ten years of life expectancy.
Consequently, smoking puts a huge burden on the NHS - almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smoking-related disease and over 100 GP appointments every hour are due to smoking.
It also costs the economy and wider society £17 billion a year – this is equivalent to 6.9p in every £1 of income tax received, and equivalent to the annual salaries of over half a million nurses, 390,000 GPs, 400,000 police officers, or 400 million GP appointments.
Most smokers know the risks of smoking, want to quit but are unable to due to the addictive nature of tobacco. 4 in 5 smokers start before the age of 20 and are then addicted for life.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking and can play a role in helping adult smokers to quit. But our message is clear, if you don’t smoke, don’t vape – and children should never vape.  Youth vaping has tripled in the last three years, and 1 in 5 children have tried vaping.
Disposable vapes are clearly linked to the rise of vaping in children. They are cheap and easy to use, with 69% of current vapers aged 11 to 17 in Great Britain using them. They are also incredibly harmful to the environment. 5 million disposable vapes are either littered or thrown away in general waste every week. This has quadrupled in the last year.

UK Chief Medical Officers Support Smokefree Generation

Sharing and comments, share this page, related content and links, about department of health and social care media centre.

This blog is to update journalists with the latest news from the Department of Health and Social Care Media Centre.

Subscribe for the latest news and updates as well as exclusive ministerial commentary.

Find out more .

Contact our Media Centre if you are a journalist with a media enquiry or interview request.

See contact details .

Twitter feed

Israel will defend itself, Netanyahu says, as West calls for restraint

Medium Text
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Jordan says Israeli retaliation would risk wider regional war
Israel's Air Force says its fighter jets struck Hezbollah infrastructure in eastern Lebanon
Seven killed in airstrike on house in Rafah, medics say
Qatar says it is re-evaluating its role as mediator

'STOP THE WAR! STOP THE WAR!'

An Israeli soldier sits in a military vehicle near Israel's border with Gaza

Coming soon: Get the latest news and expert analysis about the state of the global economy with Reuters Econ World. Sign up here.

Reporting by Reuters bureaux Writing by Peter Graff, Gareth Jones and Deepa Babington Editing by Ros Russell and Josie Kao

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

A senior correspondent with nearly 25 years’ experience covering the Palestinian-Israeli conflict including several wars and the signing of the first historic peace accord between the two sides.

People walk on Naqsh-e Jahan Square, after a reported Israeli attack on Iran, in Isfahan Province

Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces, an official security force, said its command post at Kalso military base about 50 km (30 miles) south of Baghdad was hit by a huge explosion late on Friday, and two security sources said it resulted from an air strike.

Sri Lankan and Iranian foreign ministers hold news conference, in Colombo

World Chevron

Aftermath of a knife attack at the Assyrian Christ The Good Shepherd Church, in Sydney

X vows to 'robustly challenge' Australia order to remove stabbing posts

Social media platform X said on Saturday it would challenge in court an order from an Australian regulator demanding the company remove some posts related to the stabbing of a bishop in Sydney.

Fighting on the Myanmar side between the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and Myanmar's troops, which continues near the Thailand-Myanmar border

Russian war correspondent Semyon Eremin, who worked for the Russian daily Izvestia, was killed on Friday in a Ukrainian drone attack in southeastern Ukraine, the newspaper said.

German Patriot air defence system units are deployed at Vilnius airport

IMAGES

Dressing Code When Visiting an Incarcerated Person
Short guide to the European Prison Rules
Guidance document on the European Prison Rules
A Guide to Prison Security Categories in England and Wales
Book a prison visit on GOV.UK
What to Bring and Wear When Visiting Prison

VIDEO

Advice if your going to adult prison in the uk for the first time #podcast
Your First Prison Visit
"UK Prisons Are Riddled With Drugs" #shorts

COMMENTS

Visit someone in prison
To use this service you need the: If you do not have the prisoner's location or prisoner number, use the 'Find a prisoner' service. You can choose up to 3 dates and times you prefer. The ...
What to Take to a Prison Visit: Your Comprehensive Guide
Typically: Avoid clothing that resembles prison attire, such as orange, khaki, or green uniforms. Refrain from wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing; otherwise, your visit may be terminated prematurely. Opt for closed-toe shoes, which are both comfortable and compliant with most dress codes.
Visiting someone in prison
The rules for visiting should be clearly displayed in the prison. The visit can be refused or cut short if you break any of the prison visit rules. If you are a threat to prison security or are causing concern to other visitors, you may also find the visit is cut short or you are offered a closed visit. Further information on visits this can be ...
PDF Prisoners Advice Service
Specifics of privilege visits will vary from prison to prison but typically they are as follows: Basic - same as statutory minimum. Standard (and Entry) - at least 3 visits every 28 days with the possibility of additional facilities. Enhanced - 4 or 5 one-hour visits per 28 days where resources allow with an element of choice over day/time ...
Can my loved ones visit me in prison?
Visiting rules may change if there is a COVID outbreak within the prison. If you are unable to visit someone in prison you can still keep in touch. You can also contact the Prisoners' Families Helpline on 0808 808 2003. You will not be able to book a visit using this number.
Changes to prison visits and conditions
Changes to prison visits and conditions - detailed summary. Following on from the Frequently Asked Questions on the changes to visitation and prison conditions as lockdown eases, here is a more detailed summary of the COVID-19 National Framework for Prison Regimes and Services - the rules prisons must follow when considering how to reduce the restrictions on visits and prison activities.
The Rules on Prison Visits
A visiting order is not needed. During the prison sentence, a convicted prisoner is entitled to one social visit per fortnight and one weekend visit every four weeks. These visits can be up to one hour long. A visiting order is needed. The prison governor can decide to allow additional visits under certain circumstances.
Examining the Duration and Rules for Prison Visits in the UK
2-3 - General population inmates are allowed 2-3 visits per month from their approved list. 1 - Higher risk category inmates may only receive 1 visit per month to discourage gang/criminal activity. 4 - Benchmark of good behavior can qualify prisoners for up to 4 visit sessions per month. So for inmates exhibiting compliance and progress ...
Book a visit to prison
Contact numbers for booking a visit. Prison. Phone number. Maghaberry Prison. Visit Booking 0300 200 7866. Monday to Friday 8.30 am - 12.30 pm / 2.00 pm - 4.30 pm. Visit Booking 02892 614029. Saturday and Sunday 8.30 am - 12.30 pm / 2.00 pm - 4.30 pm. Legal Visits 02892 614062.
What to Wear on a Prison Visit in the UK: Need To Know
The UK Prison Service provides guidelines that all visitors must adhere to: No revealing, offensive, or provocative clothing. No blue denim, combat attire, or bright colors. No tight, sheer, ripped, or holes in clothing. Avoid excessive jewelry and accessories. Expect to go through metal detector screening.
Where and How to get Help Visiting Someone in Prison
Applying by Post for Help with Prison Visits. You can also apply by post, by email, or by phone. You should contact the Assisted Prison Visits Unit to request an application form. Assisted Prison Visits Unit. Email: [email protected]. Telephone: 0300 063 2100.
Prison Rules and Regulations
These tasks are part of prison workshops and, as a rule, prisoners get paid for this type of work. In some cases, working in prison can include jobs at the detention center (e.g. in laundries and kitchens). Note: UK prison rules and regulations allow a 'low-risk' prisoner to work among, and join, general community activities.
Visiting a prisoner for the first time
Conclusion. Visiting a prisoner for the first time in the UK requires preparation, understanding, and emotional readiness. By familiarising yourself with the procedures and expectations, you can ensure a smooth and meaningful visit. Remember, your presence and support can make a significant difference in the life of a prisoner, providing them ...
Visiting Rules
The actual rules applied alter form prison to prison, eg some prison only allow item brought in on weekend visits, or within the first month of custody, so look at the individual prison pages for information. Visits are important to everybody involved. Whilst some visiting areas are not very welcoming the prison do try very hard to make the ...
Prison rules and adjudications
These offences are listed in Prison Rule 51 and Young Offender Institution Rule 55. You can be charged for an offence and given a punishment. This happens through the adjudications system which we describe below. The Prison Rules can be difficult to understand. More information can be found in PSI 05/2018 Prisoner Discipline Procedures.
Virtual visits
Visitors needs to register with UniLink in order to book a virtual visit. Visitors can register for an Email a Prisoner (EMAP) account. Please note: Only those visitors who are on the prisoners visit list will be able to book a virtual visit. You must be over the age of 16 to book a visit.
The Prison Rules 1999
84. Contracted out functions at directly managed prisons. 85. Revocations and savings. These Rules make provision for the management of prisons, including the treatment of prisoners, the conduct of prison officers and the powers and duties of boards of visitors. They revoke and replace the Prison Rules 1964 (S.I. 1964/388), as amended.
Leavenworth prison union says staffing shortages are the real cause of
Families have been blocked from visiting inmates since March 1. A union president for prison staff believes an investigation justifying the tightened rules is dragging on as a way to circumvent ...
Boris Johnson broke government rules by being 'evasive' about links to
Boris Johnson breached government rules by being "evasive" about his relationship with a company that set up a meeting between him and Venezuela's president, the business appointments ...
2024-25 men's NCAA basketball transfer portal tracker: updates
Outlook: Former top-10 prospect Aaron Bradshaw was expected to visit Ohio State this past weekend, but UNC is heavily in the mix and has him near or at the top of the target list.The Tar Heels are ...
Middle East latest: Israeli war cabinet 'favours response' to Iran
The five-member cabinet, in which Benjamin Netanyahu, defence minister Yoav Gallant and cabinet minister Benny Gantz have decision-making powers, met earlier today to discuss the attack - which ...
Ukraine's Zelenskiy visits eastern command post for Chasiv Yar troops
The visit looked aimed at lifting Ukrainian troop morale 25 months into Russia's full-scale ... United Kingdom category UK's Sunak proposes tougher rules to combat 'sick note culture' 10:49 AM UTC.
Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping: what you
The consultation response can be viewed here: Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping: your views - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) The UK is party to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and has an obligation to protect the development of public health policy from the vested interests of the tobacco industry.
Israel will defend itself, Netanyahu says, as West calls for restraint
Israel will make its own decisions about how to defend itself, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday, as Western countries pleaded for restraint in responding to a volley of attacks ...

Cookies on GOV.UK

Visit someone in prison

Request a prison visit

Help with the costs of prison visits

Related content

Help us improve GOV.UK

Can my loved ones visit me in prison? Task

How often can my loved ones visit?

How many people can visit me at one time?

What happens during a visit?

How do I book a visit?

Help with the costs of visiting

How else can I keep in touch with my loved ones?

Add a new comment Cancel reply

About this page

Ashmans Solicitors

Send your enquiry.

Prison visits – who can visit and when?

What’s allowed during a prison visit?

Closed visits

How to visit someone in prison

More Resources

Similar Blog Posts

New Rules for Sexual Harm Prevention Orders

Aggravated Trespass While Protesting

Unduly Lenient Sentences Explained

Parliament Considers New Protest Offences

Sign up to our newsletter

Become Our Partner

Download A Guide

Book a visit to prison

Booking online

Booking by telephone

Virtual visits

Registering for visits

Bringing proof of identification to prison

Useful links

Translation help

What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment

What to Wear on a Prison Visit in the UK: Need To Know

Overview of UK Prison Visitation Rules

Dress Codes for Women Visitors

Dress Codes for Men Visitors

Rules for Children’s Clothing

Banned Clothing Items

Tips for Finding Approved Outfits

Screening Process at Check-In

Consequences of Wearing Unapproved Outfits

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just wear whatever is comfortable?

Do the rules differ for solicitors or professional visitors?

Can I change clothes if denied for my outfit?

Can I wear jewelry?

Related posts:

Share this post on social

Popular posts

Popular Topics

Prison Security Categories

Jail Rules on Prisoner Privileges and Rights

Prisoner Rights UK

Prisoner Punishment

Healthcare in Prisons UK

Specialist Help and Support

Refusing Medical Treatment in Prison

Prison Life in the UK for Vulnerable Prisoners

Psychiatric Hospitals

Are Concerned about a Prisoner?

Pregnancy and Childcare Inside Prisons

Applying for Places in Prison Mother and Baby Units

List of Prisons with Mother and Baby Units

Temporary Release for Pregnant Prisoners

Work in Prison Education

Skills and Qualifications

Working in Prison UK