Ford Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to West Sussex’s Open Prison

Nestled in the tranquil countryside near Arundel, West Sussex, Ford Prison stands as a unique open prison dedicated to preparing male offenders for reintegration into society. Officially known as HMP Ford, this Category D facility offers a progressive environment with greater freedom and community-focused rehabilitation. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its role in the justice system, or curious about life inside, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Ford Prison’s address, telephone number, visiting procedures, transport links, and the daily experiences of its inmates, offering an essential resource for families and researchers.

Overview of Ford Prison

Ford Prison, officially HMP Ford, is a Category D open prison for adult male prisoners located in Ford, near Arundel, West Sussex. Established in 1960 as an open prison, it has a capacity of approximately 557 inmates. The facility primarily accommodates men serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, fraud, or drug-related crimes, with a strong focus on resettlement through education, vocational training, and Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) for community work.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Ford Prison is known for its open conditions, allowing inmates to work in local businesses and engage in community projects. Its facilities include workshops, classrooms, and a farm, fostering practical skills. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from the South East. Recent inspections praise its supportive environment but highlight challenges with drug use and staff retention, positioning Ford as a vital part of the prison estate.

History of Ford Prison

Ford Prison began as an open prison in 1960, established on a former Royal Navy airfield to provide a rehabilitative environment for male offenders. Its open conditions were designed to prepare inmates for release, a pioneering approach at the time. The facility’s construction was part of a 1960s push to modernise the UK’s prison estate, moving away from the punitive designs of older gaols.

Key milestones include the introduction of ROTL in the 1970s, enabling inmates to work in the community, and the expansion of vocational training in the 1990s, including farming and horticulture programmes. Inspections in the 1980s praised its progressive ethos but noted issues with infrastructure. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its educational facilities and security, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged drug use and staffing challenges. Ford’s history reflects its evolution as a leading open prison, balancing freedom with responsibility.

Ford Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Ford Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 3 miles south of Arundel, accessible via the A27.

Ford Prison Telephone Number

To contact Ford Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1903 723000

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.

Ford Prison Capacity

Ford Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 557 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single rooms across several residential units, with accessibility adaptations for some inmates. Its capacity supports its open prison model, fostering a community-like atmosphere.

How to Get to Ford Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Ford Prison’s rural location near Arundel requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Brighton, Chichester, and London.

By Car

From Arundel, take the A27 south to Ford Road (5 minutes). From Brighton, follow the A27 west (30 minutes). From Chichester, take the A27 east (15 minutes). The prison is signposted off Ford 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 Ford Railway Station, 1 mile away (5-minute taxi or 20-minute walk). Southern Railway operates services from Brighton (40 minutes), London Victoria (1.5 hours), and Chichester (15 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the Southern Railway website.

By Bus

From Arundel or Littlehampton, the Number 9 bus (Stagecoach) stops on Ford Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Arundel. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Ford Prison

Visiting Ford Prison requires advance booking, with a more relaxed security process due to its open conditions. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1903 723000 (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 15 minutes early for security checks, which are less stringent than in closed prisons but include searches.
4. Special Requirements: Request accessible facilities or child support when booking. The visitor centre offers a waiting area and basic facilities.

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

Ford 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 1–2 hours, with longer sessions for legal meetings. The visitor centre is welcoming, with basic refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

Life at Ford Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Ford Prison is structured to promote rehabilitation, leveraging its open conditions and modern facilities. Inmates live in single rooms across residential units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., farming, horticulture), and work programmes, including ROTL opportunities in local businesses. The prison’s farm and gardens are standouts, offering practical skills. Facilities include a gym, library, and extensive grounds, with 8–10 hours of daily out-of-cell time, reflecting its open status.

A 2023 inspection found that 85% of inmates felt safe, one of the highest rates among UK prisons, though drug use, particularly cannabis, remains a challenge, with around 60 incidents of contraband in 2024. Mental health support is improving but limited by staffing shortages (down 8% in 2024). Positive aspects include ROTL, family contact programmes, and community work, which help inmates maintain ties. Inmates describe a supportive, less restrictive environment, with work opportunities offering hope, though adjusting to open conditions can be challenging for some.

Recent News About Ford Prison

Ford Prison has been in the news in 2025 for its rehabilitation efforts and challenges:

• ROTL Programme Success: In March 2025, 25 inmates secured community jobs via ROTL, boosting resettlement outcomes. West Sussex County Times
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Sussex
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted an 8% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates highlight Ford’s commitment to rehabilitation amid operational hurdles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ford Prison

Who is held at Ford Prison?

Ford Prison houses adult male prisoners serving medium to long-term sentences in Category D open conditions, with a focus on resettlement.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Ford, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1903 723000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Ford 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 work programmes, including IT, farming, and ROTL opportunities, though availability varies.

How safe is Ford Prison?

Safety is strong, with 85% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use is a concern, but support programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope and change, and Ford Prison’s open conditions make these connections vital for rehabilitation. With a capacity of 557 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in ROTL alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Ford is a hub of opportunity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1903 723000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Ford Road address or connect with someone at Ford Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.