Arriving at prison

When someone arrives at prison they have at least one interview and assessment with a qualified professional so they:

  • know what their rights are
  • get help with their physical and mental health, for example with sexual health or drug and alcohol problems
  • are told what courses they can do in prison
  • understand prison rules and procedures

The prisoner gets a prisoner number and their property is recorded and put somewhere safe until they’re released.

Security categories

Prisoners are given a security category based on:

  • how likely they are to try to escape
  • their risk of causing harm to other prisoners and prison staff

A prisoner may be transferred to another prison with a different security category at any time.