Isis Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to London’s Young Offender Institution

Situated in the vibrant Thamesmead area of South East London, Isis Prison serves as a key facility for young male offenders in the UK. Officially known as HMP/YOI Isis, this Category C and young offender institution (YOI) focuses on rehabilitation for young men aged 18–30, 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 Isis 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 Isis Prison

Isis Prison, officially HMP/YOI Isis, is a Category C and young offender institution located in Thamesmead, London. Opened in 2010, it is one of the UK’s newer prisons, with a capacity of approximately 628 inmates. The facility primarily houses young male offenders aged 18–30 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.

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

History of Isis Prison

Isis Prison opened in July 2010, built within the grounds of HMP Belmarsh to address the need for modern young offender facilities in London. Designed with advanced security and rehabilitation spaces, it aimed to provide a structured environment for young men, moving away from the overcrowded conditions of older YOIs. The facility’s construction was part of a 2010s initiative to modernise the prison estate, featuring single and double cells, classrooms, and workshops.

Since its opening, Isis has focused on rehabilitation, introducing programmes like IT training and behaviour management in the 2010s. Early inspections praised its modern infrastructure but noted issues with staff training. Upgrades in 2015 and 2019 enhanced its security and educational facilities, addressing concerns 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. Isis’s short history reflects its role as a modern YOI, balancing rehabilitation with the challenges of a high-risk population.

Isis Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an urban area, 2 miles north of Thamesmead town centre, accessible via the A2016.

Isis Prison Telephone Number

To contact Isis Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 20 8331 4700

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.

Isis Prison Capacity

Isis Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 628 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 Isis Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Isis Prison’s urban location in Thamesmead offers good connectivity to central London, Woolwich, and Dartford.

By Car

From Thamesmead town centre, take the A2016 north to Western Way (5 minutes). From central London, follow the A2 southeast, then the A2016 (30–45 minutes, depending on traffic). From Woolwich, take the A206 east, then the A2016 (10 minutes). The prison is signposted off Western Way.

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

By Train

The nearest station is Plumstead Railway Station, 1.5 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). Southeastern operates services from London Cannon Street (25 minutes) and Dartford (10 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Alternatively, Woolwich Arsenal Station (2 miles) offers wider connections. Check schedules on the Southeastern website.

By Bus

From Plumstead or Woolwich, the Number 177 or 180 bus (Transport for London) stops on Western Way, a 3-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10–15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Plumstead. Plan your journey using the TfL website.

How to Book a Visit to Isis Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 20 8331 4700 (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.

Isis 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 modern and welcoming, with a play area and refreshments for families. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Isis 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, with 6–8 hours of daily out-of-cell time when staffing allows.

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, with over 200 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is strained, with high self-harm rates (over 250 incidents in 2024). 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 Isis Prison

Isis Prison has been in the news in 2025 for both challenges and progress:

• Educational Success: In March 2025, a new IT training programme saw 20 inmates gain qualifications, boosting employability. Evening Standard
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related assaults, prompting new security protocols. BBC London
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 12% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Isis Prison

Who is held at Isis Prison? Isis Prison houses young male offenders (18–30) serving detention and training orders or longer sentences.

How can I send money to an inmate? Use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 20 8331 4700 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Isis 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 Isis Prison? Safety is a challenge, with violence and drug use reported in 2023. 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 Isis Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 628 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in IT training alongside challenges like violence, Isis is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 20 8331 4700 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 Western Way address or connect with someone at Isis Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.