Laura Brand is making her first visit to HMP Wandsworth today to see her husband, Russell Brand, who was convicted of rape. The 39-year-old, who has three children with the former comedian, intends to support him throughout his prison term. With 10 years, five months and approximately 27 days remaining until his release (not accounting for potential early release), this visit marks the start of many.
Security and Preparation for Visitors
To arrange the visit, Laura must have Brand's prison number and date of birth, applying through a government website or by calling the prison directly. The Prison Reform Trust advises family and friends to arrive early due to security checks and to carry photographic ID.
Laura can bring money to buy food and drink from the prison shop for herself and Brand, though there is usually a maximum amount allowed. She cannot hand items directly to Brand; if she wishes to, she must call the prison to ask permission.
What to Expect During the Visit
During the visit, Laura must remain seated but can embrace Brand at the beginning and end. Officers will be present and may hear their conversation. If visiting rules are broken, or if she is deemed a security threat or a concern to other visitors, the visit can be cut short.
Brand is on the sex offenders register for life and must serve at least seven years of his sentence before being considered for release on license. Insiders have called him a 'marked man' due to the reception awaiting famous faces from fellow inmates. Wandsworth, one of the UK's largest prisons in south west London, holds between 1,300 and 1,500 prisoners.
Insights from a Former Inmate
Former Wimbledon champion Boris Becker, 58, who served time at Wandsworth, described his experience in his book, Inside. He said, "You can't sleep because all of it is true. In jail people do kill themselves, people do harm themselves and people do go crazy." He added, "It's the harsh reality when you have never been to prison and that's what your lawyers don't tell you before – maybe not to scare you. HMP Wandsworth is probably one of the toughest prisons in the UK so to be put in there was quite a shock." Brand likely will not spend his entire sentence at Wandsworth.
