Prisons and other closed institutes are still classed as high-risk areas for transmission of the COVID-19 virus, with situation changes rapidly occurring. Please note that HMP Dovegate may still be declared an 'outbreak' site by the Public Health England at short notice. We request that all prisoners, staff and visitors follow guidance given on the day, such as the requirement to wear masks during their visits.  These measured are designed to keep you all safe, and cooperation is appreciated.

Purple Visits will remain open to everyone and allow visitors to book via the app on their smartphone/tablet.

Visitors are now permitted to bring in £25 per visit, which is an increase from £20.

Social visiting times

09.00-11.30

13.30-16.00

To book a social visit

We are currently experiencing some difficulties with our visits booking line as well as extremely high volume of calls presently.  You can contact us via our email booking line and we will endeavour to answer your queries at the soonest opportunity. Please be advised that all prisoners are able to book visits via their computer system and we would advise them to do this in the first instance. Please see the Visits Booking line email address below. Apologies for any inconveniences.

[email protected]

To book a Purple Visits video call

• Download the Purple Visits App on a smartphone or tablet and register on there.
• Download link here
• All bookings can be made directly through the App.

Court bookings go through the Offender Management Unit (OMU), they are not handled by the Visits Booking Team.

Please note: the phone line and email are not covered on Bank Holidays.

To book a legal/video link visit

Face to face legal visits are available Monday – Friday 09:00 – 11:30 and 13:30 – 16:00 excluding Tuesday mornings

Legal visits via video link are available Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00

Bookings can be made by email to [email protected]. Please  provide as much information as possible. This mailbox is monitored Monday to Friday 09:00 – 16:00

Alternatively, bookings can be made via telephone on 0800 8778951, this phoneline is monitored Monday to Friday 10:00 – 12:00 and 13:30 – 15:00.

Emailing prisoners at HMP Dovegate

Email a Prisoner has become a vital tool for family and friends to maintain strong family ties. Complementing traditional methods of communication whilst respecting the security arrangements necessary in the transferring of prisoner communications. This service is offered in our establishment in conjunction with UNILINK.

Exchange voicemails and speak directly with Prison Voicemail

Prison Voicemail is an award-winning service enabling approved family members to exchange voicemails and speak directly with a loved one in prison. The service is used by over 17,000 people and is frequently referred to as a lifeline for maintaining family ties. Visit prisonvoicemail.com for more information.

'Families and Significant Others' Department

Our Families and Significant Others lead at HMP Dovegate is John Gates, Assistant Director.  

Family Support Team Contact Details:
Tel - 01283 829 501
Email - [email protected]

Can money be taken in for a prisoner?

You can send money by debit card, you will need the prisoner number and their date of birth. Go to www.gov.uk/send-prisoner-money