Abstract

Lack of contact while in prison between the individual and their family, friends and the outside world is a critical factor of imprisonment. This impacts on the individual’s general wellbeing while in prison and the likelihood of a successful return to the community on release. In addition, the absence of contact effects the partners and children waiting in the community. A recent innovative project; Prison Voicemail, has developed a voicemail service for use by prisoners and their families. This report is an initial evaluation of the Prison Voicemail system, its usability and the perceived impact on prisoners and their families. In total, 81 prisoners and 77 family members responded to an anonymous survey with 18 family members undertaking a detailed telephone interview. Feedback on the system was universally positive with the prisoner and their family members having very similar views. The availability of the Prison Voicemail system was seen by prisoners and families alike as having a positive effect on; health and wellbeing, relationships and social ties and the solving of practical problems. Prisoners also reported that it helped them to manage their behaviour in prison and that they thought it might also help them reduce offending on release. While this is a relatively small evaluating the initial findings are very positive regarding the impact on the prisoner and their family. A future long-term evaluation is called for to examine the long-term effect on general wellbeing and subsequent reintegration into the community upon release.