What you can and cannot send to someone in prison
The short answer
You can usually send letters, cards and family photos, but every prison has its own rules. Check with the prison first if you want to send a gift or clothing. Money must be sent online, not by post.
Letters and cards
- Write the person's prisoner number on the envelope.
- There is normally no limit on how many letters you can send.
- Most letters are checked by prison staff.
- Greeting cards are usually fine, but prisons photocopy cards posted by family, so they may be given a copy instead of the card.
What you must not send
You must not send anything that is indecent or obscene, threatens the security of the prison or is written in code.
It is a criminal offence to send or give a prisoner:
- Illegal drugs
- Alcohol
- Weapons
- A camera
- A mobile phone
If you are unsure about anything, contact the prison before you send it.
Gifts and clothing
What's allowed varies from prison to prison, so contact the prison before sending anything. Recorded delivery is strongly recommended.
Money
You can send money online on GOV.UK with a Visa, Mastercard or Maestro debit card. You will need their prisoner number and date of birth. It usually arrives in less than 3 working days.
You can no longer post cash, cheques or postal orders. If you can't use the online service, you can apply for an exemption.
Messages and photos through Purple Post
At HMP Parc, HMP Five Wells and HMP Rye Hill, you can send up to 3,000 characters and 3 photos from the app. Nude, sexual or threatening content is not allowed, and everything is checked before it reaches the person. See the full content rules.
Get started with Purple Post
Available at HMP Parc, HMP Five Wells and HMP Rye Hill. If your loved one is at another prison, register your interest.
Last checked: 8 November 2026. Rules and prices can change, so please check with the prison or provider.