hmp hewell prison visits

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• Crime, justice and the law
• Prisons and probation

Visit someone in prison

Use this service to request a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales. There’s a different way to book a prison visit in Northern Ireland or a prison visit in Scotland .

To use this service you need the:

• prisoner number
• prisoner’s date of birth
• dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

If you do not have the prisoner’s location or prisoner number, use the ‘Find a prisoner’ service .

You can choose up to 3 dates and times you prefer. The prison will email you to confirm when you can visit.

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can request a visit. This can take up to 2 weeks.

Request a prison visit

Visits you cannot book through this service.

Contact the prison directly if you need to arrange any of the following:

• legal visits, for example legal professionals discussing the prisoner’s case
• reception visits, for example the first visit to the prisoner within 72 hours of being admitted
• double visits, for example visiting for 2 hours instead of 1
• family day visits - special family events that the prison organises

Help with the costs of prison visits

You may be able to get help with the cost of prison visits if you’re getting certain benefits or have a health certificate.

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Blog Government Digital Service

https://gds.blog.gov.uk/2014/09/15/you-can-now-book-a-prison-visit-online/

You can now book a prison visit online

Booking a prison visit should be simple and straightforward. Until now that was far from the case. Booking a visit required both prisoner and visitor to jump through hoops: paper forms and drawn-out phone calls. And if the visit date turned out to be impossible, they had to start all over again.

Now you can book a visit online . It takes about 5 minutes. Before, picking an available date was pot luck. Now there's a date-picker that lets you select 3 possible slots instead of 1. It’s a straight-forward service with user-needs at its heart but, if you get stuck, you can call the prison's visits booking line and someone will help you with the booking.

Here's a very short film we've made about it:

By making it easier to book visits, prisoners will see more of their friends and family. Evidence suggests this will help their rehabilitation. Transformation isn't just about websites.

The service was built by the Ministry of Justice, with a combined team from the National Offender Management Service, HM Prison Service and MoJ Digital Services.

For more of the story behind this service, read Mike Bracken's account of his trip to HMP Rochester or check out the service’s transformation page .

Join the conversation on Twitter , and don't forget to sign up for email alerts .

You may also be interested in:

• Prison visit booking: using digital analytics to inform alpha development
• Making prison visits easier to book
• Meet the Transformation team

Sharing and comments

Share this page, 20 comments.

Comment by Pauline posted on 23 August 2015

How do you find out the prisoners number??? so you can go ahead with online booking of a visit?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 24 August 2015

You can find a prisoner using this service: https://www.gov.uk/find-prisoner However it will be the prisoner's responsibility to get in touch with you to let you know their prison number etc.

Comment by linda posted on 15 August 2015

This service does not appear to work this is day 2 trying to use it

Comment by Olivia posted on 30 July 2015

Hi, If a visit is booked and someone cant make it, is it possible to change the name of one of the people to someone else?

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 30 July 2015

It's best to contact the prison directly if this happens. You can find contact details here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder

Thanks, Louise

Comment by Paige posted on 28 July 2015

Hi my partner was sent to nottingham today, I was on his previous list 4 months ago for a visit. Will that still be on the system all will it have to he put through again if so how long does it take to be approved for a visit? Thanks Paige.

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 29 July 2015

You might want to get in touch with the prison first before booking a visit. You can find the contact details of the prison here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder

Comment by Debs posted on 27 July 2015

Hello Is there a list of prisons where online booking can't be used?

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 28 July 2015

According to the information on this page: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits , you can arrange a visit to any prison in England and Wales through this service. If you're visiting someone in Northern Ireland or Scotland you'll need to contact the prison directly.

This link also lists the type of visits that are not covered by the online service: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits so you need to get in touch with the prison directly.

Hope that's helpful.

Comment by c.steer posted on 26 July 2015

So how do I find the booking form to fill in I am new to computers

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 27 July 2015

Here's the link to the booking form: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits

You'll need this information to complete the form:

prisoner number prisoner’s date of birth dates of birth for all visitors coming with you make sure the person you’re visiting has added you to their visitor list

Hope that's useful.

Comment by Shawnaa posted on 09 May 2015

i have a visit booked which i did online but i do not have a visiting order woll the prison let me in?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 11 May 2015

Your identity will be checked on arrival to make sure you’re on the visitor list.

Comment by jessicca posted on 27 January 2015

What happens after you book the visit and its confirmed by email do you need the visiting order ?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 29 January 2015

The Visiting Order (VO) number is generated by the booking system, it is included in your confirmation email and you will need this to change or cancel a booking.

However, if you're visiting a prison the guidance is that you only need your ID, not the VO number. If when you visit the prison you are asked for the VO number you should report this via the Contact Us link on the Prison Visits Booking form.

I hope that helps.

Comment by Ilysa Mcnally posted on 18 November 2014

How late in advance can I book e.g. book a visit today (Tuesday) for the Sunday coming???

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 19 November 2014

Hi Ilysa. Thanks for your question. A visit needs to be booked 3 working days in advance. So in this case, the visit request would have to be no later than Tuesday to allow for a visit on Sunday.

Comment by carole posted on 23 October 2014

How far in advance can you book visits

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 23 October 2014

Hi Carole. You can book up to 28 days in advance. Thanks for your question.

Comment by kimberly posted on 16 August 2015

does anyone know how to cancel a visit online?

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HMP Hewell: Troubled prison improving but problems persist

• Published 12 January 2022

A prison previously described as "unfit for the 21st Century" has improved.

Safety and security at HMP Hewell, near Redditch in Worcestershire, has increased according to the report by the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB).

Inspectors found it "cleaner, smarter and more comfortable" for inmates following refurbishment, but "constrained by serious systemic challenges".

The prison service said it was pleased the report recognises improvements.

Accommodation for inmates with disabilities was "unacceptable" and the board also said the provision for the "most unwell and vulnerable individuals" was inadequate.

Attention was also drawn to the "inhumanity" of men serving indeterminate sentences, who remain in the prison "long after the minimum period set by the court".

Indeterminate sentences, or Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP), were abolished in 2012 but the change was not retrospective, meaning hundreds of inmates remain in custody with no end date, despite having served their sentences.

'Cultural change'

"The Board recognises the improvements since its last report to provide a service fit for the 21st century," IMB chair, Rodger Lawrence, said.

"Improvements in safety and cleanliness are impressive. We welcome the refurbishment programme, but we remain concerned at the poor facilities for people with disabilities."

The IMB also praised the prison's "effective and compassionate" handling of the pandemic - an improvement on an earlier report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons in 2020 which found social distancing restrictions had left some prisoners without access to a shower or fresh air for weeks.

It said there was "an ambitious programme of cultural change" at HMP Hewell, adding: "The momentum of recent progress needs to be maintained in the coming months otherwise the hard work will have been wasted and an opportunity missed."

A Prison Service spokesperson said: "We are pleased the report recognises improved safety and security at HMP Hewell, while vital work to increase accessibility is already underway."

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . Send your story ideas to: [email protected]

Related Topics

More on this story.

Report links prison care failings to inmate death

• Published 23 December 2021

Jail terms with no end date 'a death sentence'

• Published 19 March 2021

Jail's self-harm levels 'stubbornly high'

• Published 21 January 2021

Prisoners 'unable to access showers for weeks'

• Published 19 September 2020

Prison conditions 'worst inspector has seen'

• Published 25 September 2019

Prison 'not fit for 21st Century'

• Published 26 February 2019

Related Internet Links

Independent Monitoring Boards

Hewell Prison - GOV.UK

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

21 April 1926 to 8 September 2022

• News releases
• / News releases
• / HMP Hewell – successful early action against COV...

HMP Hewell – successful early action against COVID-19 but easing of severe restrictions too slow

Read the report: HMP Hewell scrutiny visit

HMP Hewell, a large men’s local prison in Worcestershire visited by inspectors from HM Inspectorate of Prisons (HMI Prisons) after five months of COVID-19 restrictions, was found to have properly focused on managing risks from the virus and safeguarding the often transient and short-term population.

No prisoners had tested positive for the virus since April and, though social distancing remained a “continuing challenge”, inspectors assessed that overall the prison had managed the initial stages of the crisis well. The prison had also started work on improvements following a troubling full inspection in June 2019, though COVID-19 had interrupted many of these plans.

Inspectors returned to Hewell in August 2020 for a scrutiny visit (SV) – designed by HMI Prisons to assess the recovery of prisons from severe early COVID-19 restrictions. Peter Clarke, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, said that some findings were a concern:

• Almost a third of prisoners felt unsafe. In part, these perceptions reflected the lack of consistent attention to social distancing, but violence remained comparatively high, particularly against staff, and Hewell “could not be considered a safe prison.”
• Care for particularly vulnerable prisoners was good but many still felt that they were not supported at their time of need.
• Though the severely curtailed regime at the start of the restrictions was understandable “there had been little progress in ensuring that prisoners had sufficient time out of cell or purposeful activity. This contributed to prisoners’ frustration and potentially to a deterioration in mental and emotional well-being,” Mr Clarke said. “Prison leaders at both local and national level should take note of the fact that 70% of the prisoners we surveyed at Hewell reported problems with their mental health. One hour out of cell each day was simply not enough.”
• The small number of prisoners with symptoms who were isolating could not have a shower regularly and sometimes had to wait for up to 14 days to do so.
• Some prisoners with impaired mobility had not had time in the fresh air for weeks and experienced particular difficulty in accessing showers regularly. This was wholly unacceptable.

Efforts had been made to ensure that prisoners could maintain some contact with their families in the absence of visits. In-cell telephones were greatly appreciated by prisoners. The reintroduction of visits had been a priority for the prison after nearly five months without any and this was also valued by prisoners.

Mr Clarke noted that a new governor had arrived five weeks before the visit and had increased time out of cell from half an hour to an hour, opened a workshop for a small number of prisoners and introduced an outside exercise session for all prisoners once a week. Yet many workshops remained empty, classroom-based education was still not permitted and only 14% of prisoners were employed.

Overall, Mr Clarke said:

“While we are acutely aware of the need to ease restrictions in a safe and measured way, we felt that progress had been too slow and the restrictions in place were no longer proportionate. Additional improvements could be made by the governor, but further progress was limited by rigid national procedures which prevented a creative leadership team from implementing credible and safe plans to improve the regime. The governor was realistic about the significant challenges that lay ahead. He described an optimistic vision for Hewell of delivering a more person-centred, purposeful and rehabilitative regime within the constraints of running a busy local prison The initial stages of the COVID-19 crisis had been managed well, and the challenge now will be to secure, as quickly as possible, a recovery plan that will enable the prison to fulfil its role safely and decently.”

Notes to editors 1. Read the report: HMP Hewell scrutiny visit

2. HM Inspectorate of Prisons is an independent inspectorate, inspecting places of detention to report on conditions and treatment, and promote positive outcomes for those detained and the public.

3. Read about the development of scrutiny visits (SVs) in response to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis . These are short inspections which, while not as exhaustive as our full inspections, are more in-depth than the short scrutiny visits used in the early months of the pandemic. They include the reintroduction of a prisoner survey.

4. HMP Hewell was opened in June 2008. It consists of a closed category B male site. The open category D Grange resettlement unit, a grade ll listed manor house built in 1894 in the Jacobethan style, was decommissioned in April 2020. Hewell holds up to 900 adult male prisoners – with 828 at the time of the visit. The prison had a high churn and continued to serve the courts and manage many short-term sentences throughout the national restrictions. At the time of our visit almost a quarter of prisoners had had their licences revoked, some of whom had been recalled for very short periods.

5. This scrutiny visit took place between 4 and 11-13 August 2020.

6. On pages 12-13 of the report you can find a summary of key concerns and recommendations, and four examples of notable positive practice identified by inspectors.

7. Please contact John Steele at HM Inspectorate of Prisons on 07880 787452, or at [email protected], if you would like more information.

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• Inside Time Reports
• 13th December 2014
• Category B, C and D , Prison Visit

Prison information

Address: HMP HEWELL Hewell Lane, Redditch, Worcestershire, B97 6QS Switchboard: 01394 412400 Managed by: HMPPS Region: Suffolk Category:  Male Link to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hollesley-bay-prison

Description

Hewell is a men’s prison in the village of Tardebigge, near Redditch in Worcestershire.

Visit Booking: Online

Use this online service to book a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales you need the:

• prisoner number
• prisoner’s date of birth
• dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can book a visit.

You’ll get an email confirming your visit. It takes 1 to 3 days.

ID: Every visit

Children’s Visits:

Acceptable forms of ID

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Prison Inspectorates Reports

Probation Service Reports

Prisons and Probations Ombudsman

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If you have any information that you would like to be included or see anything that needs updating, contact Gary Bultitude at  [email protected]

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13 thoughts on “ hmp hewell ”.

Hi all, Can anyone tell me what a Privileged Visiting Order entails? My partner is now enhanced and gets two of these PVO’s a month, on top of his usual 4 visits a month. He seems to think it’s a bit more personal and you’re able to be closer to each other but Im just tryna find out from someone that definitely knows what it involves. Thanks in advance ☺️

Hi, i as just wondering if you have to pay to park in the visitors car park as i cannot find anything regarding this so i am assuming you dont need to pay to park, but just double checking. Have not visited here before and due to visit this week. Many thanks

Please can someone tell me what clothes can be taken for a prisoner on remand? Staff do not share any information and make it very difficult to find out anything. My partner is being held on remand and says staff so not tell him anything. I am so worried. It’s been 5 weeks and I’ve only just seen him

What items of clothing can I bring in for my partner and does he need to put a app in his only on his 1st day today thank you

Hi was just wondering how much money we am allowed to take on a visit i know it states £20 coins but is that per person or family

I have a new born baby can u plz tell me wot I can take in the visit wid me

Why does it take nearly a month to be added to a prisoners contact list!!!! All I do is ring to see if it has updated, followed all the advice given and still nothing!! How is this acceptable

Can someone help me please. Looking to order newspapers to go into HMP Hewell. How do i go about this? Thanks

Hi how can i send money into my son

You need his full name, prison number and location…i am not sure if it can be done electronically or not, but you can send a cheque or postal order…all of the correct details,name, number etc. Will need to be on back of cheque and as far as I can remember the cheque will need to be made out to the prison governor…please do check this information though online…it has been a while since I was banged up…

I am looking for a way to contact a govener that isn’t by post as I have sent a couple of letter and never a reply. I was on a visit last week and I was approached by a gentle on duty as I was leaving gave my partner a kiss and so did my children . He gave me the worst telling off in front of my children as we had kissed on the yellow marks on the floor. I was refused to be let out of the visiting hall until I had listen to his full rant and I mean over and over again and until I said yes sir he refused to let me out baring in mine j had 3 children with me. He told me he would decide my fait as I left which has now resulted in me being put in closed visits over xmas and new year . Any one have any ideas on what I can do ????

Did you send letter recorded delivery? On google type in prison governors email address, list comes up

This is a wonderful find for both it’s practicality and it’s reassurance, thanks.

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Hewell Prison Information

• HMP Hewell Grange: It is classified as a Category D open prison, providing the lowest level of security among prison categories. It focuses on preparing individuals for their eventual release into the community.
• HMP Hewell: It is a Category B closed prison, offering a higher level of security to house individuals who pose a higher risk of escape or require a more controlled environment.
• HMP Hewell Grange: It primarily accommodates adult male offenders serving the final stages of their sentence in an open setting.
• HMP Hewell: It primarily accommodates adult male offenders serving sentences of varying lengths in a closed environment.
• Accommodation: Both HMP Hewell Grange and HMP Hewell provide living units equipped with basic amenities. HMP Hewell Grange offers open living units, while HMP Hewell provides individual cells in a closed setting.
• Education and Vocational Training: The prison offers educational programs and vocational training opportunities to develop inmates' skills and improve their employability upon release.
• Work Opportunities: Inmates have access to work placements and employment opportunities within the prison, such as maintenance, cleaning, and kitchen roles.
• Healthcare: Hewell Prison has an on-site healthcare unit staffed with medical professionals who provide primary healthcare services to prisoners. Mental health support, substance abuse programs, and specialist services are also available.
• Family Contact: The prison recognizes the importance of maintaining family relationships and supports visits and contact with family members, subject to specific guidelines and regulations.
• Sports and Physical Activities: Hewell Prison promotes physical fitness and offers access to sports facilities and organized activities to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.
• Resettlement Support: The prison provides pre-release planning and support to assist inmates in their transition back into the community. This may include assistance with accommodation, employment, and accessing community-based support services.

Contact Information

Booking a visit to hewell prison.

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Howard League blog · 23 Apr 2024

What imbs tell us about prison today: spring 2024 update.

As we reflect on the first quarter of 2024, we turn again to the relentless endeavours of Independent Monitoring Boards (IMBs) in revealing the realities of life inside prison.   

IMBs are critical to promoting accountability and transparency in the prison system. Boards comprise of volunteers who are appointed to monitor day-to-day life within prisons and immigration removal centres. They act as independent observers, conducting regular visits to prisons, and providing insight on the conditions and treatment of those detained through their annual reports.  

Twenty IMB reports were published between January and March this year. They paint a vivid picture of the challenges of life in a prison which is desperately overcrowded. They demonstrate the many harms of soaring numbers of people entering jail and the inability to maintain adequate living standards. Notable in these reports is also the dearth of support for people with neurodiverse conditions in prison.  

But before diving into these challenges, it’s worth setting out the context in which these 20 prisons are currently operating.   

The government’s latest projections predict the prison population could increase by over 30% within the next four years. This feels unimaginable in a system already buckling under severe population pressures. IMB reports demonstrate what this means for the lives of people in prison – giving hundreds of examples of overcrowded cells, rising waiting lists for healthcare and resettlement activities, and overworked prison officers operating in understaffed institutions.   

Separated child’s cell at Cookham Wood, photo by HM Inspectorate of Prisons, April 2023

Staffing challenges were keenly felt in the children’s estate. At Cookham Wood prison, where 20% of officers resigned during the reporting year, the IMB found staff shortages in the face of a spike in prisoner admission caused inconsistency in regimes, with boys locked in their cells for up to 22 hours a day. The Board at Werrington prison reported that 17% of education classes were cancelled in the spring because there were not enough staff to host the rising numbers of prisoners. Since the report was published, Cookham Wood has been slated for closure, with more than half of the boys now moved out. It will reemerge as an adult men’s prison later in the summer.   

These population projections are even more worrying in the face of high levels of ‘churn’ and late arrivals. Recent IMB reports show the detrimental impact this is having on reception and induction processes.  

The influx of new arrivals in a prison, coupled with frequent transfers, places immense strain on existing resources and staff. This is made worse by the increasing frequency of late arrivals, largely due to court backlogs and an upwards trend of sentencing. HMP Bronzefield’s IMB show a monthly average of 10 late vans transporting people into prison at the start of their sentence – affecting nearly 60 women. HMP Ford ’s IMB report over 120 movements in and out of reception at a time.  

Late arrivals cause havoc in prisons. At Hewell prison, Board members found incredibly committed staff volunteering to stay beyond their shift to help manage the high level of admissions. Bronzefield’s IMB found late arrivals unable to make their reception phone call, get a hot meal, collect their property, or access the pastoral and practical support that should be available.  

This influx not only disrupts the operational flow, but also impedes the timely provision of essential services, such as early healthcare checks. Board members found many people missed their healthcare assessment as a result of large groups arriving at once to Haverigg prison. Likewise, at Feltham , only 40% of arrivals received a healthcare screening within two hours of admission, against a national target of 95%.  

The Victorian front gates of HMP Wormwood Scrubs, photo by Andy Aitchison.

Another concern highlighted by recent IMB reports is a sluggishness in addressing disrepair within prison buildings. People are increasingly being squeezed into jails that cannot cope with rapidly rising prison populations. Damage to living spaces and broken equipment is commonplace. And there are inevitable difficulties for officers in addressing these problems in good time, while managing growing lists of additional responsibilities due to depleting staff numbers. Bure’s IMB, for instance, say heating funding was provided pre-pandemic, but later lost due to the work not being completed, while the IMB at Wormwood Scrubs prison flagged the problem of broken lifts for several years in a row.  

These delays not only compromise living conditions inside prisons, but also pose significant risks to the safety and wellbeing of those inside. At Channings Wood prison, the IMB flagged “…the excessive time taken to carry out some repairs to key buildings and equipment…adversely affects not just living conditions for prisoners but also access to many of the activities which help prepare them for release”. Similarly, the IMB at Ford give a troubling example of glacial repair work. Inspectors found several showers were out of order, but temporary showers were also found to be unfit for purpose, with intermittent temperatures and blockages that lasted for weeks.  

We have long been aware of a significant number of people in prison with neurodiverse conditions. However, obtaining information on the number of people diagnosed has proven difficult, with no official statistics regularly published by the Ministry of Justice. On top of this, there are likely many more people who have not received a diagnosis. IMBs help provide a snapshot of this population in some prisons. In an encouraging development, Boards at the Verne and Hewell, for instance, identified 28% and 40% of the prison population as neurodiverse, respectively. The Board at Hewell concluded that the appointment of a neurodiversity manager, while a step in the right direction, “ …has exposed a diversity of needs that cannot possibly be met within existing resources .” Cardiff’s IMB celebrate the opening of a neurodiversity hub in the prison last year. Similarly, a post to support this cohort was recently created at the Verne.  

By fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment, prisons can better facilitate the rehabilitation journey for neurodivergent people and mitigate the risk of reoffending. It is great to see examples of emerging good practice in recent IMB reports. I applaud the prisons that have made efforts to support this group of people in extraordinarily difficult circumstances but there are severe limitations on adjusting the prison environment to meet the needs of neurodiverse people, and there are serious resource constraints. More of these initiatives are needed in our prisons, but fundamentally we need radical change to achieve diversion away from the criminal justice system in the first place.  

The Howard League remains committed to lifting the lid on prisons and working towards driving positive change within the criminal justice system. IMBs play a critical role in helping us do just that, including by – as we have seen here – highlighting the need for timely repairs, streamlining the reception process, and prioritising support for the neurodiverse population. The effectiveness of IMBs relies entirely on the dedication and commitment of their volunteers; we can’t thank them enough.  

Andrea Coomber KC (Hon.) 

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A Chronicle of Current Events

For human rights & freedom of expression in the ussr, the podrabinek case, dec 1977 to feb 1978 (48.7).

<<No 48 : 14 March 1978>>

On 1 December 1977, the brothers Alexander and Kirill PODRABINEK (CCE 47) and their father Pinkhos Abramovich PODRABINEK were summoned for a chat by Yu.S. Belov, chief of a department at the Moscow City and Regional KGB. Alexander refused to appear.

“On behalf of the Committee for State Security ” (Belov told Kirill and his father Pinkhos Podrabinek)

“I suggest that you and your families leave the Soviet Union and go abroad via Israel within 20 days. There is enough material against you, Kirill Pinkhosovich, to institute criminal proceedings. You, Pinkhos Abramovich, are also known to us for your anti-social activities. An act of humanity is being offered to you both. I advise you to make use of it.”

Alexander (b. 1953) and Kirill Podrabinek (b. 1952)

The same evening Alexander Podrabinek was arrested on the street and taken to the KGB. Belov presented him, too, with an ultimatum: all three must leave the country, otherwise criminal proceedings would be instituted against both brothers.

Belov let it be understood that the absence of an invitation and difficulties with money would not be obstacles. Belov stressed that they could only leave all together.

HOSTAGE-TAKING

Many painful disputes have sprung up around the moral problems arising from KGB’s ultimatums and blackmail. The Chronicle cannot present the arguments but at least it can accurately convey the stance of participants in such events by reproducing all their statements in sufficient detail.

On 6 December 1977, there was a press conference at Andrei Sakharov ’s flat. Pinkhos PODRABINEK read out a “Statement for the Belgrade Conference [note 1] and the Press”:

“A distinctive feature of this case is the KGB’s use of the hostage system. Not one of us can determine his own fate independently, and a decision about the fate of three people has been placed by the KGB on Alexander Podrabinek alone, in whose departure the authorities are most of all interested. “We categorically refuse to accept such conditions and insist on our right to make our choices independently…”

Then Alexander PODRABINEK read out his “Reply” to the KGB’s proposal:

“I would like to draw the attention of the world public to my brother’s painful position and to the dirty tactics of the KGB — tactics of intimidation and terror. The whole world condemns the hijacking of aeroplanes and the taking of passengers as hostages, yet the KGB is using the very same method with regard to my brother, a method commonly used by terrorists. In the situation that has arisen the most painful thing for me is my brother’s fate. “At the KGB they insistently advised me to take advantage of this ‘humane act of the Soviet government’, as they expressed it. I regard this proposal as unconcealed blackmail by the KGB. “They have given me four days to reflect. On 5 December I have to give my reply. A reply that means a great deal to me. “This is my reply.

“I do not wish to go to prison. I value even the semblance of freedom which I possess now. I know that I would be able to live freely in the West and at last receive a real education. I know that there I would not have four agents at my heels, threatening to beat me up or push me under a train.

“Over there, I know, they will not put me in a concentration camp or a psychiatric hospital for attempting to defend people who are denied their rights and oppressed. Over there, I know, one breathes easily. While here one does so with difficulty, and they stop your mouth and stifle you if you speak too loudly. I know that our country is unhappy and doomed to suffering.

“And that is why I am staying.

“I do not want to go to prison, but neither do I fear a camp. I value my own freedom as I value my brother’s, but I am not bargaining for it. I will not give in to any blackmail.

“A clear conscience is dearer to me than material well-being. I was born in Russia. This is my country, and I must remain here, however hard it may be and however easy in the West. As far as I am able, I will go on defending those whose rights are being so brazenly trampled on in our country.

“That is my reply. I am staying.”

After this Alexander Podrabinek added that he would agree to leave the country only if Kirill were to ask him to do so.

On 7 December 1977, Kirill PODRABINEK made a statement:

KGB Blackmail

1. The KGB is using the hostage-taking method. They are basically blackmailing my brother Alexander, while I am the hostage. 2. The very formulation of the question: ‘leave or we will put you in prison’, is contrary to the law. If a man has committed a crime he must be prosecuted. However, in this case the KGB does not want to stage a new political trial but prefers to dispatch us abroad. The KGB has employed a well-calculated device — to exploit the insolubility of a situation with a hostage. All this blackmail is patently a consequence of the public stand taken by our family … “If any one of the three of us is arrested and any charge whatsoever brought against him, it can only be viewed as an act of revenge by the KGB and not as a requirement of justice.”

On 12 December 1977, Kirill Podrabinek informed Belov that he had decided to leave. Belov replied that Kirill could hand in his emigration documents, and on the same day Kirill did so. On 14 December Kirill Podrabinek made an addition to his previous statement:

“On 12 December, I telephoned investigator Belov at the KGB. Permission to go abroad has been granted; there was no mention of my only being able to leave only with my brother. Does this mean that the KGB has given up its hostage-taking and will really allow me to leave? In the very near future this will become clear … In view of all the circumstances, and fearing for my life” (see CCE 47) “I have taken the decision to leave.” *

KIRILL PODRABINEK (b. 1952)

On 27 December 1977, the police in Elektrostal (Moscow Region) brought charges against Kirill Podrabinek under Article 215 (RSFSR Criminal Code: “Illegal possession of arms, ammunition” etc). Kirill refused to sign the record of this charge. Investigator Radygin obtained his written undertaking not to leave town but said he would not need Kirill before the middle of January and, if need be, he could go to Moscow.

When Kirill Podrabinek came out of the Elektrostal police station he was met at the door by KGB Investigator Belov, who had arrived from Moscow. The condition of Kirill’s departure remained unchanged, Belov said, and gave him three days in which to persuade his brother to agree to leave.

From that day onwards, KGB employees began trailing Kirill Podrabinek . (His brother Alexander had been under a similar “escort” since 10 October 1977, see below). The same day 22 Muscovites issued a statement:

“Wishing to force Alexander Podrabinek to leave the country, the KGB is openly blackmailing him with his brother’s fate. A method of hostage-taking used thus far only by irresponsible criminal-terrorists is in the present case being adopted as a weapon by the official representatives of a powerful State. This blackmail clearly demonstrates the value of the charges brought against Kirill Podrabinek. “We call upon our fellow countrymen and world public opinion to protest against the use of hostage-taking, unprecedented in the practice of civilized states. We call upon our fellow countrymen and world public opinion to follow attentively the fate of the Podrabinek family.”

On 28 December Kirill Podrabinek made a statement:

State Terrorism

“… The KGB has resorted to hostage-taking. My brother Alexander has made a statement for the press saying that he does not wish to leave, but he will leave if I so demand. “Under no circumstances will I make this demand of Alexander. In the first place, that would mean becoming a blind instrument of blackmail in the hands of the KGB, exploiting a situation created by them for my own sake. In the second place, it is impossible for me to even ask, let alone demand such a thing. “However, I have resolved to pursue my chosen line of action and try to obtain permission to leave.”

On the evening of 29 December 1977, Kirill Podrabinek was arrested.

On the day of his arrest, he declared a hunger strike. After a few days he was transferred from Elektrostal to Moscow, to the MVD’s detention centre on Matrosskaya Tishina Street.

The first response to Kirill’s arrest was “The Christmas ‘Feat’ of the KGB”, a short article by Victor Nekipelov [note 2]:

“… The arrest of Kirill Podrabinek is an act of deliberate, demonstrative revenge. The authorities know full well that they are thereby dealing the severest blow to both Alexander Podrabinek – Take that for not accepting our offer! – and to his father — While you didn’t steer your sons to a compromise!”

On 1 January 1978, Yevgeny Nikolayev (see “In the Psychiatric Hospitals”, CCE 48.12 ) sent a letter to the RSFSR Procurator’s Office, protesting against the arrest of Kirill Podrabinek.

On 4 January 1978, Alexander and Pinkhos Podrabinek asked Belov for a meeting with Kirill.

Belov refused but promised to pass Kirill a note from them, “if there are no objections on the part of the investigator”. In the note Alexander and his father asked Kirill: “Do you agree to leave if there is no need to ask Alexander to do the same?”

On the same day, at 11.30 pm, Belov came to Elektrostal to see Pinkhos Podrabinek . He informed him that the investigator “had not allowed” the note to be passed to Kirill. If Alexander handed in his application to emigrate within three days, however, all three could leave the USSR. Otherwise, Alexander  would also be arrested. Belov suggested that P.A. Podrabinek go at once to Moscow and persuade Alexander to change his mind: he even gave Pinkhos Abramovich a lift back to Moscow in his car.

On 5 January 1978, Alexander Podrabinek appealed in an open letter to Amnesty International, calling on the organisation to speak out in Kirill’s defence.

On 9 January Alexander Podrabinek telephoned Belov at the KGB. When Belov asked if he intended to leave, Alexander replied that he could only decide this matter together with his brother.

On 15 January 1978, the Christian Committee for the Defence of Believers’ Rights in the USSR called upon “world public opinion” to speak out in defence of Kirill Podrabinek and condemn the policy of hostage-taking.

At the beginning of February 1978, the Podrabineks were summoned to Elektrostal for interrogation in connection with Kirill’s case.

Pinkhos Podrabinek replied to questions about Kirill but refused to sign a record of the interrogation. Alexander declined to answer questions, stating that the case was inspired by the KGB and was being conducted with violations of norms laid down in the Code of Criminal Procedure.

ALEXANDER PODRABINEK (b. 1953)

From 10 October 1977, Alexander Podrabinek was under constant KGB surveillance. Round the clock he was pursued by two cars carrying seven or eight employees of the security services.

Whenever he was inside a building the cars stood in front of the doorway. Whenever he walked along the street or travelled in public transport there were always several agents at his side. They threatened Alexander’s acquaintances and took photographs of them. Sometimes they interfered more actively with the life of their charge: on Sunday 18 December the escort prohibited Alexander from going skiing with friends in the Orekhovo-Borisovo district [Moscow Region]. Podrabinek wrote about this incident to [KGB chairman] Andropov:

“… Since 10 October of this year I have been under the continuous and unconcealed observation of our glorious Chekists. Defending the State’s security, I understand, it is essential for the KGB to search my home, call me as a witness in the case of Yury Orlov, suggest that I leave the USSR, blackmail me, make an attempt on my brother’s life, and do much else to ensure that I do not, accidentally, undermine the foundations of the Soviet political and social system. All this I understand. “I am not even particularly annoyed when one of the eight officers who perpetually watch over me swears he will break my legs or push me under a train. I understand the full difficulty of this highly complex, responsible and dangerous work and do not get angry with these heroic young people who, performing their civic duty, freeze on cold December nights outside the entrance to my house or squeeze after me onto a city bus in the rush-hour. I am enraptured by their daring, their persistence and their indifference to the cold … “Citizen Andropov! On behalf of myself and six of my friends I beg you: Provide your employees with skis and toboggans and, please, teach them how to use them, if they do not know. Then I shall be able to enjoy my on Sundays and the KGB will be able to work normally and not violate the Soviet Constitution. This can only enhance the reputation of our valiant organs and promote their physical development.”

From January 1978, the constant “escort” was replaced from time to time by ‘ordinary’ shadowing.

The security services are trying by any means to prevent Alexander Podrabinek from continuing his activities on the Working Commission (to Investigate the Use of Psychiatry for Political Purposes). In particular, they are hampering him from meeting, in the flats of his Moscow friends, people who have been subjected to “psychiatric persecution” and their relatives. Podrabinek and his friend Dmitry Leontyev , in whose flat he was living, were fined for violating the city residence regulations. Podrabinek was forbidden to continue residing at the flat.

Alexander Podrabinek was warned that he was liable to be charged with “parasitism”. In February 1978, having given his shadow the slip, he managed to get a job as a medical orderly (he is a qualified paramedic).

The pre-trial investigation of Kirill Podrabinek ’s case was completed in February 1978.

=======================

[1] Representatives of all 35 member-States of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) assembed in the Yugoslav capital Belgrade to discuss the implementation of the 1975 Helsinki Accords five years on.

[2] Victor Nekipelov

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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