Preparing to go to Ash House

There are certain things that you are not allowed to bring with you into prison.

These are:

• Any toiletries, perfume, make-up;
• Any hoodies, vest tops or baseball caps;
• Any belts thicker than or with a buckle bigger than 2.5 cm.

Most prisoners tend to wear track suits, casual trousers or jeans. If you are going to bring some clothes in, you need to check that they are machine washable.

Toiletries including sanitary towels are provided by the prison. Make-up can be ordered.

Some things you might like to pack would be:

• A watch (not programmable);
• Underwear
• Cash - £20 would be enough to get you started.
• Address book with the telephone numbers and addresses of your family and friends.
• Footwear: you can take in trainers, slippers and some people bring flip flops for the shower.

It is better to check with the prison exactly what you can/cannot bring with you.

What about money?

There is no limit on the amount of money you can bring into prison when you are first arrive. This money will be paid into a personal account; you will not hold money. You can spend money on phone credits or in the prison shop. You will also be able to earn some money when in prison. Visitors can also leave you in up to £70 in cash at each visit and they can also bring you clothes and other items like paperback books.

What if you are pregnant or have a young baby?

If you are pregnant you need to let the nurse know as soon as you arrive. She will arrange your ante-natal care which will be exactly the same as you would have had if you were not in prison. You will be taken to a maternity unit at a local hospital to have your baby. After your baby is born you will go back to Hydebank Wood and can, if it is in the child’s best interest, keep your baby with you until he/she is around 9 months old.

The Prison will provide all the equipment you need, such as cots, prams, nappies, sterilisers, bottles, milk etc.