Cookham Wood YOI Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Kent’s Young Offender Institution

Nestled in the historic town of Rochester, Kent, Cookham Wood YOI Prison stands as a dedicated facility for young male offenders in the UK. Officially known as HMP/YOI Cookham Wood, this young offender institution (YOI) combines modern rehabilitation efforts with the challenges of managing a vulnerable and often volatile population. Whether you’re arranging a visit to support a loved one, researching its role in the justice system, or curious about life inside, this guide offers a detailed exploration of Cookham Wood YOI Prison’s address, telephone number, visiting procedures, transport links, and the daily experiences of its inmates, providing an essential resource for families and researchers.

Overview of Cookham Wood YOI Prison

Cookham Wood YOI Prison, officially HMP/YOI Cookham Wood, is a young offender institution for males aged 15–18, located in Rochester, Kent. Opened in 1978, it is a purpose-built facility with a capacity of approximately 188 inmates. The prison primarily houses young offenders serving detention and training orders or longer sentences for offences such as theft, violence, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on education and behaviour management to reduce reoffending.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Cookham Wood is designed to support young inmates through tailored education, vocational training, and therapeutic programmes, supported by facilities like classrooms and workshops. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse group from Kent and the South East. Recent inspections praise its educational offerings but highlight challenges with violence, mental health support, and staff shortages, positioning Cookham Wood as a critical yet complex facility for young offenders.

History of Cookham Wood YOI Prison

Cookham Wood YOI Prison opened in May 1978, built on a former Ministry of Defence site in Rochester to address the need for dedicated young offender facilities in the South East. Designed as a modern YOI, it aimed to provide a structured environment for rehabilitation, moving away from the punitive conditions of older prisons. The facility’s construction was part of a 1970s push to improve youth justice, with an emphasis on education and skills training.

Over the years, Cookham Wood has evolved to focus on younger inmates (15–18), introducing programmes like literacy courses and vocational workshops. Early inspections in the 1980s noted its progressive approach but raised concerns about staff training. Upgrades in 2005 and 2019 enhanced its educational facilities and security, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its education programmes but flagged high levels of violence and inadequate mental health support. Cookham Wood’s history reflects its commitment to youth rehabilitation, tempered by the challenges of managing a high-risk population.

Cookham Wood YOI Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Cookham Wood YOI Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a residential area of Rochester, 2 miles north of the town centre, accessible via the A2.

Cookham Wood YOI Prison Telephone Number

To contact Cookham Wood YOI Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1634 202600

Sourced from GOV.UK, this number connects to the main switchboard, available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For visitor bookings or specific queries, follow the prompts or request relevant extensions.

Cookham Wood YOI Prison Capacity

Cookham Wood YOI Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 188 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations for young inmates. Its smaller capacity supports its focus on tailored rehabilitation, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

How to Get to Cookham Wood YOI Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Cookham Wood YOI Prison’s location in Rochester offers reasonable access by car, train, or bus, with connections to London, Maidstone, and the South East.

By Car

From Rochester town centre, take the A2 north to Sir Evelyn Road (5 minutes). From London, follow the M2 to Junction 2, then the A2 (45 minutes). From Maidstone, take the A229 north, then the A2 (15 minutes). The prison is signposted off Sir Evelyn Road.

Parking: Free on-site parking is available for visitors, including disabled spaces. The car park is adjacent to the visitor centre, with sufficient spaces even during peak hours.

By Train

The nearest station is Rochester Railway Station, 1.5 miles away (10-minute taxi or 25-minute walk). Southeastern operates services from London Victoria (40 minutes), London St Pancras (35 minutes via high-speed), and Maidstone (15 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the Southeastern website.

By Bus

From Rochester town centre or railway station, the Number 140 or 141 bus (Arriva) stops on Rochester High Street, a 10-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from the town centre. Plan your journey using the Arriva South East website.

How to Book a Visit to Cookham Wood YOI Prison

Visiting Cookham Wood YOI Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance due to its young offender population. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1634 202600 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM). Provide the inmate’s name, prison number, and desired visit date.
2. Online Booking: Use the GOV.UK prison visit booking service. Register and submit your request up to 14 days in advance.
3. Identification: Adults (18+) must present photo ID (e.g., passport, driving licence). Children need a birth certificate. Arrive 20 minutes early for security checks, including searches and drug detection dogs.
4. Special Requirements: Request accessible facilities or child support when booking. The visitor centre offers a waiting area and family-friendly facilities.

Confirmation is sent via email or phone. Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours prior to avoid restrictions.

Cookham Wood YOI Prison Visiting Times

Visiting hours, as confirmed by GOV.UK, are:

• Tuesday, Thursday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).
• Saturday, Sunday: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).
• Legal Visits: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (by appointment).

Visits last approximately 1 hour, with longer sessions for legal meetings. The visitor centre is welcoming, with a play area and refreshments for families. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

Life at Cookham Wood YOI Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Cookham Wood YOI Prison is intense, reflecting the needs of its young and often vulnerable population. Inmates live in single cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., English, maths, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and behaviour programmes like anger management. Facilities include a gym, library, and outdoor sports areas, but time out of cells is often limited to 4–6 hours daily due to staff shortages.

A 2023 inspection found that 50% of inmates felt safe, with violence, particularly gang-related, and drug use (e.g., cannabis, Spice) posing significant challenges. Self-harm rates are high, with over 200 incidents in 2024, and mental health support is strained. Positive aspects include a peer mentoring programme and family contact initiatives, which help young inmates adjust. Inmates describe a high-energy environment where tensions run high, but those engaged in education or training find purpose, though consistency depends on staff availability.

Recent News About Cookham Wood YOI Prison

Cookham Wood YOI Prison has been in the news in 2025 for both challenges and progress:

• Educational Success: In March 2025, a new IT training programme saw 15 inmates gain qualifications, boosting employability. Kent Online
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related assaults, prompting new security protocols. BBC Kent
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 12% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment efforts ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates reflect Cookham Wood’s efforts to balance rehabilitation with security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cookham Wood YOI Prison

Who is held at Cookham Wood YOI Prison?

Cookham Wood houses male young offenders (15–18) serving detention and training orders or longer sentences for various offences.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a frequent concern. At Cookham Wood, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1634 202600 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Cookham Wood YOI Prison accessible?

Yes, it offers ramps, accessible toilets, and parking. Request accommodations when booking to ensure a smooth visit.

What programmes are available for inmates?

Inmates access education, vocational training, and behaviour programmes, including IT, construction, and anger management, though availability varies.

How safe is Cookham Wood YOI Prison?

Safety is a challenge, with violence and drug use reported in 2023. New security measures and mentoring programmes aim to improve conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we know that family support can be a lifeline for young offenders, and Cookham Wood YOI Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 188 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in IT training alongside challenges like violence, Cookham Wood is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1634 202600 enable loved ones to offer hope, which can transform a young person’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Sir Evelyn Road address or connect with someone at Cookham Wood YOI Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.