The first few weeks at HMP Standford Hill are designed to help prisoners settle into the establishment, understand prison life, and access the support and opportunities available to them.

 

When prisoners arrive at HMP Standford Hill, they first enter the Reception Department. Here, staff check all personal property to ensure it complies with the approved facilities list. Each item is recorded on a property card, which prisoners are asked to sign to confirm whether items remain in their possession or are placed into stored property.

 

Prisoners are not permitted to borrow or lend property to others. This rule helps prevent items from being used as currency and protects individuals from bullying, coercion, or pressure to give away their belongings.

 

Upon arrival on the residential unit, all prisoners receive a First Night Interview, during which staff assess immediate needs and provide essential information and support. As part of this process, prisoners are provided with:

 

• Communications Compact forms

• A bedding pack, containing essential bedding items and cutlery.

• A first night telephone call, where necessary. If PIN phone accounts have not yet been activated, induction staff may assist by making an initial call to inform family members or loved ones that the prisoner has arrived at HMP Standford Hill. However, this may not be possible where restrictions are in place for safeguarding, public protection, or security reasons, including cases where contact with specific individuals is not permitted.

 

Following arrival, prisoners undertake a comprehensive two-week induction programme. This structured programme introduces prisoners to all key departments within the prison and helps them understand the services, opportunities, routines, and expectations of life at HMP Standford Hill.

 

Throughout the induction period, prisoners follow a detailed timetable and receive information from a range of departments, including healthcare, education, employment, resettlement services, offender management, chaplaincy, gym and wellbeing services, and other support functions. The programme is designed to ensure that prisoners are fully informed about the support available to them and how the establishment operates.

 

The transition from closed to open conditions can be a significant period of adjustment. Throughout the induction process, prisoners are encouraged to raise any concerns, questions, or welfare issues with staff, who are available to provide guidance and support.

 

At the conclusion of the two-week induction programme, prisoners are allocated to an appropriate work placement, vocational training opportunity, or educational programme within the establishment. These activities are intended to develop skills, promote responsibility, and support successful resettlement into the community.