Do UK Prisons have Commissary
When it comes to understanding the inner workings of prisons, one often comes across terms and concepts that may not be familiar.
One such concept is the idea of commissary. If you’ve ever wondered whether UK prisons have commissary and what it means for inmates, this article aims to break down the basics in a simple, accessible manner.
What is Commissary?
Commissary is a term used primarily in the United States prison system to refer to a store within the prison where inmates can purchase various goods. These goods typically include food and snacks, personal hygiene items, clothing, and sometimes even electronics. The commissary operates on a system where inmates can purchase items using funds that they or their families have deposited into their commissary accounts.
Do UK Prisons Have Commissary?
In the UK, the concept of commissary doesn’t exist in the same way it does in the US. Instead, UK prisons have a system where inmates can purchase items through what is known as the canteen. The canteen system allows inmates to buy a variety of goods, similar to what you might find in a commissary, including food, toiletries, and other essentials. However, the range of items available can vary depending on the specific prison and its rules.
Understanding the Canteen System in UK Prisons
The items available for purchase in UK prison canteens generally include:
– Inmates can buy snacks, drinks, and sometimes even specialty items.
– Basic hygiene products like soap, toothpaste, and toilet paper are commonly available.
– Some prisons offer a selection of clothing and footwear items.
– Inmates can purchase writing materials and sometimes books or magazines.
How Does the Canteen System Work?
1. Ordering: Inmates can typically place their orders weekly using an order form provided by the prison.
2. Payment: The cost of these items is deducted from the inmate’s prison account. Family members or friends can also deposit money into an inmate’s account to be used for purchases.
3. Delivery: Orders are delivered to inmates on a designated day, usually once a week.
Restrictions
It’s important to note that there are often restrictions on what inmates can purchase, both in terms of quantity and type of item. For example, luxury items may not be available, and there may be limits on how much an inmate can spend per week.
Comparing Commissary and Canteen Systems
| Aspect | US Commissary | UK Canteen System |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Offers a wide range of items, including electronics and luxury goods. | Typically includes basic necessities like food, toiletries, and clothing. |
| Payment Methods | Inmates can use money from their trust accounts or funds provided by family and friends. | Purchases are generally made from the inmate’s prison account. |
| Regulations | The types of items available and the rules around purchases can vary significantly between different prisons and regions. | The range of items and purchase rules vary by prison, but generally less variety compared to US. |
FAQS:
1. What is a commissary in the context of prisons?
A commissary, in the context of prisons, refers to a store within the facility where inmates can purchase various goods such as food, snacks, toiletries, and sometimes clothing and electronics.
2. Do UK prisons have commissary like in the United States?
UK prisons do not have a commissary system like in the United States. Instead, they operate a canteen system where inmates can purchase similar items, albeit with some differences in available products and purchasing methods.
3. What can inmates buy from the canteen in UK prisons?
Inmates in UK prisons can buy a range of items from the canteen, including food, snacks, drinks, toiletries, basic clothing, stationery, and sometimes books or magazines.
4. How does the canteen system work in UK prisons?
Inmates can typically place their orders weekly using an order form provided by the prison. The cost of these items is deducted from the inmate’s prison account, which can be funded by family or friends.
5. Are there any restrictions on what inmates can purchase from the canteen in UK prisons?
There are restrictions on the types and quantities of items inmates can purchase. Luxury items and certain products may not be available, and there are usually limits on how much an inmate can spend per week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while UK prisons do not have commissary in the same way as US prisons, they do operate a canteen system that allows inmates to purchase a range of goods. This system is an important part of prison life, providing inmates with access to necessities and occasionally treats that can make their incarceration more bearable.
If you have any further questions about UK prison systems or the canteen system, feel free to leave a comment below. We’re here to help!
