An unconvicted prisoner is someone who is awaiting trial. That means that they are presumed innocent and apart from the duty of the prison to hold them and deliver them to court securely, an unconvicted prisoner is treated differently to convicted prisoners. Unconvicted prisoners can still vote and do not have to work in prison unless they want to. Generally, unconvicted prisoners can wear their own clothes.
Because there is a need to make sure that prisons are run in a secure and efficient way for the benefit of all prisoners and prison staff, many of the rules such as those regarding personal items and hygiene apply to unconvicted prisoners too.
However, unconvicted prisoners are given special rights and privileges.
All reasonable facilities to:
1) be able to seek release on bail and preparing for their trial
Prisoners are given help and advice on how to go about seeking release on bail. Legal Services Officers are available in the prison to give help and advice and help them get in touch with their solicitor.
2) preserve their home and their job
Prisoners are allowed to make arrangement for their family and business affairs to be looked after, should they be convicted.
3) maintain contact with their family and friends
There are special rules for unconvicted prisoners. More details can be seen in the Keeping in Touch section on this site.
4) continue with legitimate business and social interests
Normally, an unconvicted prisoner will be allowed to continue with legitimate business activities. It is the responsibility of the Governor to decide what facilities they should be allowed to do this.
5) get help for any personal problems
Each prisoner will have someone such as a personal officer, the officer in charge of their wing or the Race Relations Liaison Officer, that they can speak to if they have any problems.
