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Crime, justice and the law

Crime justice and the law

Help with travelling costs

You may be able to get financial help to visit a family member in prison, since a number of agencies offer assistance of that type. This page can point you in the right direction.

Qualifying for assistance

If you are the prisoner's close relative, partner or only adult visitor, and you receive one of the following you may qualify for financial assistance from the Assisted Prison Visits Scheme:

  • income support 
  • job seeker's allowance (income-based)
  • child tax credit (maximum income £13,895)
  • child tax credit with working tax credit (maximum income £13,895)
  • working tax credit with a disability element (maximum income £13,895)

You may also qualify if you hold a health certificate two or three.

How to apply for assistance

Your first step should be to get an information pack. This contains a form you'll need to fill out, and contains instructions on where to post the form.

You can pick up an information pack from:

  • the prison where you're family member is held
  • any prison visitors' centre
  • most benefits offices, including Job Centre Plus

You can also order an information pack by phoning the Assisted Prison Visits Unit (0845 3001423 or textphone 0845 3040800) during its opening hours which are Monday to Friday 10:15-11:45am, and 2:15-3:45pm.

You should also call that number if you need notes about the assistance programme in Welsh, in a foreign language, in Braille or in audio format.

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