Altcourse Prison

Altcourse Prison Information, Address, Telephone Number & Book A Visit

Aerial view of Altcourse Prison in Liverpool, UK's first privately financed prison.

Altcourse Prison, situated in Liverpool, became a trailblazer as the first UK prison to be funded through a Private Finance Initiative, with its contract signed in December 1995 and operations commencing in December 1997. Built by Tarmac Construction, the prison initially received positive reviews for its management, although later faced scrutiny over its financing and overcrowding issues, peaking at 1,324 inmates in 2005.

Altcourse has also drawn attention for its challenges with contraband and its unique rewards system, offering satellite TV access for good behaviour. Featuring seven main wings named after fences of the Grand National steeplechase course, Altcourse is divided into two halves by facility buildings like the gymnasium, library, and education centre. It has housed notable inmates such as Benjamin Mendy, the Manchester City footballer.

Altcourse Prison Contact Information

Altcourse Prison Telephone Number
Altcourse Prison Address

Brookfield Dr, Fazakerley, Liverpool L9 7LH

To book a visit to Altcourse Prison call the dedicated booking line Monday to Friday between 0830-1630 hrs. 

Official visitors can book by phone or via email.

[email protected]

To book by phone call: +44(0) 151 522 2196 / +44(0) 151 522 2047

What types of inmates are held at Altcourse Prison?
Altcourse Prison is a Category B male prison located in Liverpool. It holds adult male offenders, including those on remand awaiting trial or sentencing, as well as sentenced prisoners. The prison accommodates a wide range of offenders, from those convicted of less severe crimes to those serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.

2. How can I arrange a visit to an inmate at Altcourse Prison?
To visit an inmate at Altcourse Prison, you must book a visit in advance. Visits can be arranged by calling the prison’s visiting line or booking online through the prison’s website. You’ll need to provide the inmate’s name, prisoner number, and your own details. Visitors are also required to bring valid photo identification and may be subject to security checks upon arrival.

3. What items can I send to an inmate at Altcourse Prison?
Inmates at Altcourse Prison are allowed to receive certain items through the mail, such as letters, photographs, and a limited number of approved items like clothing. However, restrictions are in place, and prohibited items include drugs, alcohol, mobile phones, and certain types of food. All parcels sent to inmates must comply with the prison’s rules, and it is advisable to check with the prison before sending anything.

4. What support services are available to inmates at Altcourse Prison?
Altcourse Prison offers a variety of support services aimed at helping inmates during their sentence. These include educational programs, vocational training, substance misuse support, and mental health services. The prison also provides access to chaplaincy services for religious and spiritual support. Additionally, resettlement services are available to assist inmates with reintegration into society upon release.

5. How can I contact an inmate at Altcourse Prison?
Inmates at Altcourse Prison can be contacted through letters, phone calls, and email via the Email a Prisoner service. To send a letter, you’ll need the inmate’s full name, prisoner number, and the prison’s address. Inmates can make phone calls to approved contacts during specified times, and you can also send messages via the Email a Prisoner service, which allows emails to be printed and delivered to the inmate.