Once the paperwork’s done, you’ll usually be able to make an initial phone call – to let someone know where you are, and that you’re safe. That call can mean a lot, for you and for them.
Before you can call anyone else, you’ll need to give the prison a list of the numbers you want to be able to contact. Each one gets checked and approved before you can call it, so it’s worth thinking in advance about who you’ll want on that list.
You’ll be given a personal PIN to use the phone system, which only lets you call pre-approved numbers – this is a security measure used in every Scottish prison, not something specific to you.