Cells vary a lot between prisons, and between Victorian local prisons and modern builds, but the basics are similar across England and Wales.

The room

A typical cell is roughly the size of a small bathroom, around 6 to 8 square metres. It was usually designed for one person; because of overcrowding, many hold two, with a bunk bed. You can expect:

  • A bed with a thin mattress, pillow and bedding.
  • A toilet, usually in a corner. In shared cells it is normally screened by a low wall or a curtain rather than a door. In Victorian prisons the toilet was retrofitted and privacy is minimal.
  • A small sink with cold water, and in newer cells hot water too.
  • A desk or shelf, a chair or stool, and a locker or cupboard.
  • A window with bars; in most cells the window opens only a few centimetres or has a vent, so ventilation and temperature are a constant complaint in summer.
  • A cell bell to call staff, and an observation panel in the door.
  • A kettle in most prisons, and a TV if you are on standard or enhanced level of the incentives scheme (a small weekly charge applies).
  • In many newer or refurbished prisons, an in-cell phone for calls to approved numbers, and sometimes a laptop or kiosk for applications and messaging.

Sharing

If you share, you will be risk-assessed to make sure you are not placed with someone who poses a danger to you. If you are placed with someone you have a genuine reason to fear, tell an officer at once. Smoking is banned in all prisons in England and Wales; vapes can be bought from the canteen.

Time in the cell

How long you spend locked up depends on the prison's regime and staffing. In a well-run training prison you may be out most of the day for work, education and association. In a struggling local prison it is not unusual to be locked up for 22 hours a day, particularly at weekends. The Inspectorate of Prisons report for each prison will tell you what to expect.

Making it bearable

You can have a limited amount of personal property: photos, books, a radio, writing materials, and clothing if permitted. Keep the cell clean (cleaning materials are provided), get on a work or education list as soon as you can, and use association time. If a cell is in an unacceptable state (broken toilet, no heating, infestation), report it to your personal officer and if nothing happens, put in a complaint and write to the Independent Monitoring Board.