Visitors’ Support Services at HMP Dumfries & HMP Greenock
In a significant step toward enhancing the experience of families and friends with incarcerated loved ones, two prisons in Scotland, HMP Greenock and HMP Dumfries, have launched new Visitors’ Support Services. These initiatives aim to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for visitors, encouraging meaningful contact with those in custody.
Due to space restrictions within both prisons, it is not feasible to establish Visitors’ Centres similar to those in other prisons. Instead, these facilities offer a Visitors’ Support Service, which welcomes visitors within the reception area and maintains an active presence within the visit hall. The core functions of this service mirror those of traditional Visitors’ Centres and include:
- Improving the visits experience for people visiting their family member or loved one in prison.
- Providing access to independent and impartial advice, information, and support tailored to the needs of the families.
- Voicing the needs of families affected by imprisonment to the prison administration.
HMP Greenock: A Family-Centric Approach
Early Years Scotland (EYS) has proudly taken the reins of the Visitors’ Support Service at HMP Greenock. Building on their success at HMP Low Moss, where they established and operate a Family Visitors’ Centre, EYS is well-equipped to extend their compassionate support to families at Greenock.
“We are delighted to have this opportunity,” remarked an EYS representative. “Our long-running partnership with HMP Greenock has enabled us to create a calm, relaxing, and supportive space for families, helping them through this challenging period of their lives.”
The prison team at HMP Greenock shares this enthusiasm, emphasising the transformative impact of the new service. “We are very proud of our team’s efforts to ensure that visits are a healthy, safe, and happy experience for both the families who visit and those in our care,” said a representative from HMP Greenock. “Michelle and the EYS team have become a regular and reassuring presence for families, fostering positive relationships and encouraging more family members to visit.”
Visitors have already noticed the difference. One visitor shared their experience, saying:
“I was so anxious about visiting the prison, but the reassurance and information I received about available support services made a huge difference. After my first visit, I felt emotional but grateful to have a private space to compose myself. This support is invaluable.”
HMP Dumfries: Community Collaboration for Visitor Support
At HMP Dumfries, a partnership with the Summerhill Community Centre has paved the way for an innovative Visitors’ Support Service. Recognising the need for support for families, children, and friends of those in custody, this collaboration aims to provide a welcoming environment and facilitate meaningful family contact. “The Visitors’ Support Service is a totally new initiative for HMP Dumfries, and one we did not think we would achieve due to the nature and layout of our buildings,” a prison official said. “Having the offer of working with Summerhill has opened new doors for us and provides us with a nearby area for our visitors to wait between visits and feel welcome. This opportunity has also enabled us to enhance our family bonding visits by being able to offer more sessions.”
The Summerhill Community Centre staff extend their support within the prison, providing advice, signposting to other agencies, and engaging young family members in activities. This presence helps ease the stress and anxiety often associated with prison visits.
AnneMarie Coulter, the Summerhill Manager, is optimistic about this new provision and to be working with HMP Dumfries to provide this important service within their own ‘Amazing Futures’ Project. She describes this project as developing a network of grassroots community opportunities and activities; developing the wealth of knowledge from lived experienced volunteers and developing unique opportunities for community staff to be supporting families and individuals involved with the Justice System regardless of their background or circumstances.
“In regards to the Visitors Support Service, we have spoke with families, volunteers and staff and we are excited about new ideas and possibilities. We truly recognise the trauma experienced by families and prisoners and the impact this has for everyone. Supporting people through these journeys and challenging situations can really reduce the stress and worry, which in turn can help to achieve a brighter future, improve mental health, coping strategies and help create positive outcomes for all.”
Visitors have expressed their appreciation for the support provided. One lone parent commented, “Just knowing there is someone to chat with in the waiting room is a massive relief. Getting advice about claiming expenses was really helpful.” Another visitor noted, “It was nice to spend time in a different setting today. My child enjoys visiting dad and sees it as playtime too.”
An individual in custody at HMP Dumfries also shared their gratitude, saying “Thank you for speaking with my mum and dad. Your support is really appreciated.”
A Brighter Future for Families
The introduction of Visitors’ Support Services at HMP Greenock and HMP Dumfries marks a significant step forward in creating a more supportive environment for families. By providing professional guidance and a welcoming atmosphere, these services will help reduce the stress associated with prison visits, foster positive family interactions, and contribute to the wellbeing of all involved.
Summerhill Community Centre at HMP Dumfries
Staff are available at the prison:
- Friday 1pm – 4pm
- Saturday 9am – 4pm
- Sunday 9am – 4pm
Landline: 01387 247 344
Mobile: 07743 924 609
Visitors are also welcome at Summerhill Community Centre Monday to Sunday, any time between 9am -10pm.
Centre address: Ballochmyle Terrace, Summerhill, Dumfries, DG2 9EF
Early Years Scotland at HMP Greenock
Staff are available at the prison:
- Wednesday 2:30pm – 9pm
- Saturday 1pm – 5pm
- Sunday 1pm – 5pm
Landline: 01475 883 329
Mobile: 07387 414 271
Key Contact: Michele McKinnon, Early Years Scotland Family Support Worker
Email: [email protected]