First weeks at Ash House

On the committal landing the staff will get to know you and talk to about resettlement planning. This is all about finding out why you have ended up in prison and what you can do with your time in Hydebank Wood. You will be told about education courses, sport and recreation classes and lots of other things that you might be interested in getting involved in. The staff will keep an eye on how you are getting on and after about 4-6 weeks you will be moved to another landing.

If you have any special dietary requirements you should inform a member of staff.

Family

Being away from your family and friends is the hardest part of any prison sentence but you will be able to keep in touch with them by writing letters, phoning them and through visits.

If you are a remand prisoner you will have three 30 minute visits per week. Sentenced prisoners usually have one visit per week. Staff on your landing will be able to talk you through arranging your visits. The first visit does not need to be booked.

There is no restriction on the number of phone calls you can make. Every landing has a pay phone.

If you have any difficulties making contact with your children, your Probation officer will be able to help you.

On top of your normal visits Hydebank Wood also runs special child centred visits which take place in a family room where you and your children will be able to spend some time together. You will be told more about this when you come into prison.

Do you need more information?

If you require any further information, then please contact us as follows:

Hydebank Wood Prison

Hospital Road

Belfast

BT6

Our telephone number:

028 9025 3666

E mail:

info@niprisonservice.gov.uk

You might also find it helpful to speak to PBNI.

Their contact details are: 028 9025 3750.