Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Labour) on Monday, 17 December 2007.

Prisoners: Visits

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will do more to publicise the availability of financial support for prison visits by next of kin who have limited means.

Answer: The assisted prison visits scheme which provides financial support to prisoners next of kin is published as a Prison Service Order 4405 providing rules of the scheme. This document is accessible on the Prison Service website for the general public to view and a downloadable information booklet is also available in a range of foreign languages. Governors and directors are also required to ensure that the scheme is advertised in visitor centres, visits halls and waiting areas, the prison library, and through prisoner induction programmes. A number of voluntary sector organisations are also aware of the scheme and can provide information. These include the citizen's advice bureau, Action for Prisoners' Families and the Prisoners' Families Helpline. However, a review is going to be taking place shortly to identify any further means of communication with prisoners, their next of kin and their family.

Secondary information