Whitemoor

Inside the prison and daily life

Whitemoor is a high-security men's prison in March, Cambridgeshire. Its accommodation includes four main residential wings and the specialist Fens unit, with prisoners occupying individual cells. Sports provision includes a sports hall, weights facilities, fitness equipment and an outdoor artificial pitch.

Education has a particular emphasis on information and communications technology, from foundation study to higher learning through the Open University. Vocational training also includes construction skills such as painting, decorating and plastering. The aim is to offer development within the restrictions of a high-security environment.

Prison work includes laundry and recycling. Desktop publishing and computer refurbishment are also described, with the latter linked to a restorative project supporting IT Schools Africa. Offending behaviour programmes and personal and social development courses form another part of the stated provision.

New arrivals receive an induction covering rules, support, health and how to maintain contact with people outside custody. Ormiston Families supports families and friends. Understanding Whitemoor therefore involves the relationship between security, meaningful activity, specialist support and maintaining the everyday relationships that continue beyond the prison gates.

Visiting and family contact

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

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