Durham

Role and background

Durham Prison is a men's establishment in the city of Durham. Much of its population is held on remand rather than serving a sentence, a distinction that matters when describing the people in custody.

Remand can include people awaiting trial or sentence. It should not be used as shorthand for a conviction in every case.

Practical subjects include construction, warehousing, recycling, computing and food and hospitality. These activities provide opportunities to learn while prisoners remain in custody.

Visiting and family contact

The prison has seven wings, with additional healthcare and segregation provision. New arrivals receive an induction covering immediate welfare needs, rules, learning and family contact.

The visitors centre offers support with questions about visits, property, healthcare, money and telephone contact. Family services can help relatives understand prison procedures and find further assistance.

Anyone planning a visit should confirm the latest approval, booking and identification requirements before travelling. Those arrangements are separate from the rules for professional or legal visits.

Inside the prison and daily life

Education includes computing, art, customer service, horticulture, life skills and English for speakers of other languages. Vocational training is intended to reflect local employment needs.

Practical advice before you make arrangements

Use Durham's official page below for its current booking route, required identification, permitted items and travel instructions.

Confirm that the person is still at Durham and that your visit has been accepted before making travel arrangements. Ask the prison in advance about disability access, medication or children's needs.