Rochester

Inside the prison and daily life

Rochester is a prison and young offender institution for men aged over 18 in Rochester, Kent. Its accommodation includes single and shared cells, with showers in some cells. The establishment has a resettlement role, bringing education, vocational training and preparation for release into its stated purpose.

Practical subjects include bricklaying, carpentry, stone masonry, plastering, tiling, welding, painting and decorating, catering and gym-related courses. English, maths, IT, mentoring and distance learning provide other routes through education. Training in a trade and improving basic literacy can address different barriers to finding work after custody.

Visiting and family contact

New arrivals receive an induction that covers health, wellbeing, support services, prison rules and family contact. The prison also offers offending behaviour programmes. Eligible prisoners may be considered for temporary release, but this involves criteria and an individual risk assessment rather than an automatic entitlement.

Family services are provided by PACT. Prisoners can use approved telephone contact and correspondence, and the prison organises family visits. Rochester's visitor arrangements require advance planning, so families should check the current requirements before making a journey.

Anyone arranging a visit should check the latest booking rules, identification requirements and accessibility arrangements before travelling. Education and work described here are provision offered, rather than a guarantee of individual access or outcomes.

Practical advice before you make arrangements

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

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