If you’re trying to find a person who is currently in prison in the UK, you can follow these steps:
- Use the Online Prisoner Locator: The UK government provides an online service called the Prisoner Location Service (PLS) that allows you to search for individuals in custody. You can access the PLS through the gov.uk website. The service requires you to provide the person’s full name and date of birth to initiate the search.
- Contact the Prison Directly: If you’re unable to find the person through the online prisoner locator or if you require additional information, you can contact the prison directly. You can find the contact details for specific prisons on the HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) website. Call the prison and inquire about the individual you are trying to locate. They may provide information regarding their current status and location.
- Use the Offender Management Unit (OMU): If you are a legal professional, a member of the police, or have a legitimate reason to locate a person in custody, you can contact the Offender Management Unit (OMU) of the prison where the person was last held. The OMU can assist in providing information about the person’s current location.
- Seek Assistance from Support Organisations: There are various support organisations, such as the Prisoners’ Advice Service or the Howard League for Penal Reform, that may be able to provide guidance and assistance in locating a person in prison. They can offer advice and support in navigating the process.
It’s important to remember that accessing information about individuals in custody is subject to certain restrictions and privacy considerations. The ability to locate a person may also depend on the circumstances and the nature of your relationship with the individual.