Family prison visits volunteers will be based in the Visitor Centre. The visitors’ centres exist to meet the needs of adults and children visiting relatives or friends in prison. They aim to offer, “a safe, pleasant environment where all visitors are met with dignity and respect, provided with the facilities they need and offered information, support and the opportunity to discuss the difficulties they may face in confidence” (Prison Service Guidelines, 1996). This statement sums up the basic principles underlying the Nepacs visitors’ centres.
Volunteers in this role will offer a warm welcome to all visitors arriving for a domestic visit and register all visitors who arrive. They will also provide refreshments and offer emotional support and information to the families who are waiting for a visit.
Main tasks will include:
Skills required:
Location:
HMP Durham, HMP Frankland and HMP&YOI Low Newton in Durham, HMP Holme House in Stockton, HMYOI Deerbolt in Barnard Castle and HMP Northumberland in Morpeth.