The scheme is run by the Northern Ireland Prison Service. NIACRO's Family Links service helps families with visits and applications.
Quick facts
- Who
- Low income, visiting a close relative or partner
- Prisons
- Maghaberry, Magilligan, Hydebank Wood
- Ask about a claim
- assistedprisonvisits@justice-ni.gov.uk
- Free taxi
- Moira station to Maghaberry
- Free bus
- Bellarena station to Magilligan
The Prison Visits Scheme
Ask about your application by emailing assistedprisonvisits@justice-ni.gov.uk, or by writing to the Resettlement Branch, PO Box 62, Maghaberry Prison, 17 Old Road, Lisburn BT28 2PT. Visitors' Centre staff, the prison's Family Support Officer, or Family Links at NIACRO (028 9032 0157) can help you claim. Book visits on 0300 200 7866.
Free transport on visit days
A free taxi service is available on visit days between Moira Train station and Maghaberry Visitors’ Welcome Centre. A Prison Service bus runs on visit days between Bellarena train station and Magilligan Visitors’ Welcome Centre. These are free services, which must be booked on the special assistance screen online or by speaking with a member of booking staff before travelling.
Children visiting
If you are worried about how your child is coping with a parent or relative in prison, Barnardo’s Parenting Matters (028 9064 4335) and NIACRO Family Links (028 9032 0157) can help.
Common questions
Who can get help with prison visit costs?
People on a low income visiting a close relative or partner at Maghaberry, Magilligan or Hydebank Wood.
Do I need to book the free taxi or bus?
Yes. They must be booked before travelling, online or with booking staff.