When you go into prison the sound of the people you care for is lost. No amount of preparation can help with the isolation you feel, or the helplessness that washes over you when you become aware that your family has a problem that you can longer fix.

So the telephone is the only immediate contact you have, it is restricted and all calls are carefully monitored, for obvious reasons, like you intimidating a witness or the like, but at least you can talk and try to solve any problems your family has. It can bring tremendous relief to you in times of stress and worry.

The normal process is that the prison officers take the names of inmates requiring to use the phone during the association period or during the walk back and forth to your pad's with food. The phones are used on a time booked basis, usually on a ten minute slot allowance.

The phones are always booked so getting in early is very important, you use phone cards available when you order your canteen allowance. However, the prison is supposed to allow you one or two calls out during your first day inside, so that your family knows you are safe and well. If you are deeply troubled ask to see the prison chaplain or priest and they will arrange a telephone call, also if you are very concerned it is worth telling a prison officer.

You can also ring on their phone system if you have a family member seriously ill or require to contact an outside probation office.

Asking can only be refused, if you do not ask they will not be able to help!

Phone calls are very useful for organising your visits, birthdays and letting people know when you are moving prisons or getting out!

Never forget to buy enough telephone cards.