There has long been a great need for a book which takes a careful and informative look at prisons in England and Wales. But problems of access have inhibited all but the most persistent writers - until now. Mark Leech, a former prisoner and acclaimed writer, has compiled a comprehensive guide to prisons in England and Wales which will be invaluable to anyone concerned with prisons, particularly prisoners and their families. As well as providing a core prison-by-prison guide compiled using reports from H. M. Inspector of Prisons and questionnaires completed by both prisoners and staff, the book also offers advice on useful organizations, legal rights, disciplinary matters, health, finance, race discrimination, how to start your sentence, complaints and requests, discharge grants, release, women prisoners, and young offenders. This book is intended for readers interested in prisons in the UK. Social workers who work with prisoners; probation officers; prison governors and officers; police officers; prisoners and their families; academic researchers into prisons; lawyers representing prisoners.