HMP Dovegate first visit checklist
What to take tomorrow. Official facts and what families reported. Not a promise.
Already on their visitor list
OfficialYou cannot book until they add you. First visits take longer because of the visitor list.
Photo ID
OfficialBring acceptable photo ID. Expired ID is not accepted.
Dress
OfficialHoodies, ripped clothes, and flip-flops are often turned away. Staff decide on the day.
Can I wear this?Arrive early
CommunityFamilies say arrive 30 minutes early.
Lockers
prisoncheckPhones and bags usually go in a locker. Bring change.
Not on the list yet?
Families report a first visit of 3 days. That is the wait for the list, not what to put in the bag.
First visit waitWhat the visit was like
Live family notes. Official facts stay on the list above.
“Visit ok aren't that strict on clothing”
Arrive: 30 minutesID: Photo IDVisit rules · 1mo ago
“When I first arrived. Out of all the staff you encounter only 1 was there to explain to me. Was late going into the visit, very slow process. Alot of the staff are rude. Once you have been once it’s a straightforward. Weekday visits are very quiet. Haven’t been on a weekend visit as been advised this Is very busy and waiting to get into the visiting can take anywhere up to a hour to get in and out and then you don’t get your full visit time.”
First visit · Same day · 1mo ago
GOV.UK · HMPPS / GOV.UK · Official source