Hindley Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Greater Manchester’s Young Offender Institution

Located in the suburban area of Wigan, Greater Manchester, Hindley Prison serves as a key facility for young male offenders in the UK. Officially known as HMP/YOI Hindley, this Category C and young offender institution (YOI) focuses on rehabilitation for young men aged 18–21, offering a structured environment to address offending behaviour. 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 provides a detailed exploration of Hindley 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 Hindley Prison

Hindley Prison, officially HMP/YOI Hindley, is a Category C and young offender institution located in Bickershaw, near Wigan, Greater Manchester. Opened in 1977, it has a capacity of approximately 440 inmates. The facility primarily houses young male offenders aged 18–21 serving detention and training orders or longer sentences for offences such as theft, violence, or drug-related crimes, with some adult male prisoners included. Its focus is on education and behaviour management to reduce reoffending.

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

History of Hindley Prison

Hindley Prison opened in 1977, built on a former colliery site in Bickershaw to address the need for young offender facilities in the North West. Designed as a modern YOI, it aimed to provide a rehabilitative environment with a focus on education and skills training. The facility’s construction was part of a 1970s push to improve youth justice, moving away from the punitive conditions of older prisons.

Key moments include the introduction of vocational training in the 1990s and a shift to include some adult prisoners in the 2000s, reflecting sentencing trends. Inspections in the 1980s praised its facilities but noted issues with staff retention. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its educational and security infrastructure, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its education programmes but flagged high levels of violence and mental health support gaps. Hindley’s history reflects its role as a key YOI, balancing rehabilitation with the challenges of managing a high-risk population.

Hindley Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a semi-rural area, 3 miles southeast of Wigan, accessible via the A58.

Hindley Prison Telephone Number

To contact Hindley Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1942 663100

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.

Hindley Prison Capacity

Hindley Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 440 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations for young inmates. Its capacity supports its focus on tailored rehabilitation, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

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

Hindley Prison’s semi-rural location near Wigan offers good connectivity to Manchester, Liverpool, and Bolton.

By Car

From Wigan, take the A58 southeast to Barracks Road (10 minutes). From Manchester, follow the M61 to Junction 6, then the A58 (30 minutes). From Liverpool, take the M58 east, then the A577 and A58 (40 minutes). The prison is signposted off Barracks 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 Hindley Railway Station, 1.5 miles away (5-minute taxi or 25-minute walk). Northern Rail operates services from Manchester Piccadilly (30 minutes), Liverpool Lime Street (40 minutes), and Bolton (15 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus

From Wigan or Hindley, the Number 559 or 640 bus (Stagecoach) stops on Bickershaw Lane, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 20 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Wigan. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Hindley Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1942 663100 (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.

Hindley 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 Hindley Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Hindley Prison is intense, reflecting the needs of its young and often vulnerable population. Inmates live in single or double 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 sports areas, but time out of cells is often limited to 4–6 hours daily due to staff shortages.

A 2023 inspection found that 55% 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 peer mentoring 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 Hindley Prison

Hindley 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. Manchester Evening News
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related assaults, prompting new security protocols. BBC Manchester
• 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 Hindley’s efforts to balance rehabilitation with security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hindley Prison

Who is held at Hindley Prison?

Hindley Prison houses young male offenders (18–21) and some adult males serving sentences in Category C conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a frequent concern. At Hindley, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1942 663100 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Hindley 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 Hindley 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 Hindley Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 440 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in IT training alongside challenges like violence, Hindley is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1942 663100 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 Barracks Road address or connect with someone at Hindley Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.