Prison breaches human rights as he communicates with probation, he is a lifer

Introduction

In recent years, the probation service in Hornchurch has undergone significant changes, particularly with the implementation of an automated system. This transition, which took place approximately 4-5 years ago, has altered the way individuals communicate with their probation officers. The following article explores the implications of these changes, particularly focusing on the experiences of one individual who has faced challenges in maintaining family connections due to the new policies.

The Shift to Automation

The move towards an automated system was intended to streamline communication and improve efficiency within the probation service. However, this shift has not come without its complications. For many individuals, including the subject of this article, the only means of contacting their probation officer is through a family member's landline. In this case, the individual relies on their mother to facilitate communication through a three-way call.

The Communication Process

The process of reaching out to the probation office has become somewhat cumbersome. The individual described a recent experience where they called the probation office, only to be asked by the secretary if the call was indeed a three-way call. In a bid for honesty, the individual confirmed this, leading to a series of events that would ultimately impact their ability to communicate with family.

Consequences of the Three-Way Call

Following the call, two civilian officers visited the individual to inform them that their mother’s phone number had been removed from the system. This decision was made as a direct consequence of the three-way call, which the probation service deemed inappropriate. The removal of the mother’s number means that for the next eight weeks, the individual will be unable to communicate with their family.

The Paradox of Family Connections

This situation raises a critical question regarding the probation service's commitment to maintaining family ties. The service often emphasizes the importance of keeping strong connections with family members as a means of supporting rehabilitation. However, the decision to restrict communication contradicts this principle, leaving individuals feeling isolated during a crucial period of their lives.

this is the communication between the individual and the Governor at HMP Parc:

Dear Governor  Will Styles

I am writing to you on behalf of (Name withheld for prisoners' security), a prisoner at HMP Parc, who is also my partner in managing the "Voice for Cons" website.

On June 6, 2025, the Prisoner was informed by two civilian officers that his mother's phone number would be removed from his approved contacts for a period of eight weeks. This decision stems from his practice of using his mother as an intermediary to contact his probation officer, a method he has relied upon for the past four to five years due to changes in the probation office's calling system. The current system requires callers to navigate through a series of prompts, which is not feasible with the prison's phone system. Consequently, the prisoner has utilized three-way calls to maintain this essential communication.

I would like to draw your attention to Article 8 of the Human Rights Act, which safeguards the right to respect for private and family life, home, and correspondence. This article stipulates that public authorities must not interfere with these rights unless such actions are lawful, necessary in a democratic society, and proportionate.

Furthermore, I must emphasize the pressing nature of the prisoner's family circumstances. His mother, who is in her 80s, is in poor health, and his sister is wheelchair-bound. Additionally, he has a niece who is soon to give birth. The significance of family communication cannot be overstated, as the prisoner relies on these calls for emotional support and connection.

Moreover, the removal of this phone access directly impacts the prisoners ability to manage our website. Without this line of communication, we are unable to provide updates and maintain our operations, which raises concerns under Article 10 of the Human Rights Act. This article guarantees freedom of expression, including the right to communicate and share information without undue interference from public authorities.

Given the circumstances, I respectfully request that you reconsider this decision and reinstate the prisoners mother's phone number as an approved contact. Your authority in this matter is crucial, and I hope to resolve this issue amicably before we consider further legal action or involve the Home Office.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,

Prisoner

RESPONSE

Thank you. Can I advise that if the prisoner wishes to make a complaint or submit an appeal against a decision made regarding his telephone access he should use the prison complaints system. That will ensure the complaint or appeal is considered promptly by the appropriate managers and that his personal information is managed with due regard to his privacy.

We do not deal with prisoners directly through email. There is an established complaints process that exists in all prisons that provides appropriate governance and protections.  

Thank you,