Here are some examples of the slang jargon used inside UK prisons, if you would like to add any additional slang or jargon to this thread, please add your comments in the comments box located at the bottom of this blog page.
Boss/Gov
what male prison staff are called if people do not know their name.
Miss
what female prison staff are called if people do not know their name.
Padmate
The person you share your cell with.
HDC
home detention curfew – the date you could get released on tag, if the prison agrees this is suitable.
ADR
automatic release date – the date you get released, usually half way through your sentence.
BCST
basic custody screening tool – this is an interview usually done by an Offender Supervisor the day after you arrive in prison. This is followed by a second interview with the Through the Gate team within 8 days of you arriving in the prison.
Meds
Medication
Assoc
Association time
IMB
Independent Monitoring Board, group of people who monitor the daily life in prison to ensure everyone is being treated fairly. You can request to see the IMB by putting in an application to them
General App
general application; a form available from all wing offices that you can use to ask for support from services or make general requests to the prison.
Comp 1
complaints forms, also available from any wing office.
OMU
offender management unit, the team of offender supervisors and probation staff within the prison
OS
offender supervisor, your allocated person in OMU.
OM
Offender Manager, your outside probation officer.
Family Visits
special visits, just for families, with extra activities during the school holidays. The dates for family visits can be found in each wing office. You need to apply for these in advance.
Prison Jargon